Carlos V Hotel

The Carlos V Hotel has old-fashioned yet polished interiors and features that appeal primarily to vacationing couples or business travelers. Like the rooms, the lobby has blue carpeting, classic wooden furniture, and neutral-tone seating. It lacks the modern and elegant features expected of an advertised five-star property, but it's certainly comfortable. Plus, a carved wooden front desk, chess board, and large gold-framed artwork add some interesting touches. The true standout is the gorgeous sea views from the pool and adjacent bar, as well as the restaurant with panoramic windows. Outdoors, the rectangular pool is a pretty and quiet spot, while the manicured grounds have a pond with turtles and trees bearing fruit. The lack of entertainment and kid-centric amenities make this a tranquil option for those that don't mind being a bit removed from the center of Alghero.

Carlos V Hotel is located in southern Alghero above the waterfront promenade leading to the city. The historical center of the Sardinian town of Alghero (with plenty of shops, restaurants, and sites) is a 15- to 20-minute walk from the hotel. Nearby attractions include the Mare Nostrum Aquarium (a 13-minute walk away), Piazza Duomo (an 18-minute walk) and the Nuraghe Palmavera archeological site (a 22-minute drive). There are many boat tours and sailing excursions within a 20-minute walk. The Alghero-Fertilia Airport is about a 20-minute drive away and the city of Porto Torres is 40 minutes. Free parking is available.

Rooms have an old-fashioned design consisting of royal-blue carpeting or shiny hardwood floors (mainly in suites), classic wood furnishings, and neutral-tone linens on the beds, armchairs, and stools. A prominent feature are the furnished balconies or patios, either overlooking the sea or garden. Large desks and small round coffee tables and/or two-person dining tables are provided. All rooms come with central heating and air conditioning, small flat-screen TVs, safes, free Wi-Fi, and minibars with free soda and bottled water. Marble bathrooms are more attractive, though some can be a bit tight on space. They either have a small shower, shower/tub combos, or whirlpool tubs and separate showers. Standard amenities include free toiletries and wall-mounted hairdryers.

The most alluring features at Carlos V Hotel is the sizable saltwater pool that's surrounded by loungers, umbrellas, and a garden, plus it has views of the sea. The poolside bar with ample seating is a top spot for lounging and enjoying the views. Great views are also offered at the Imperial Restaurant, which serves local Mediterranean food from a la carte or buffet menus. All rates include a free breakfast buffet. Though available 24 hours a day, food gets mixed reviews. An on-site gym has modern cardio and weight-training equipment, and the spa offers a menu of massages. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, plus a few meeting spaces are available. The hotel offers convenient car service for a fee.