Ms Maestranza Hotel

“ This is the third time I've stayed at this hotel. I chose a high floor because there are fantastic views from the balcony, whether you look inland or out over the sea and harbour. There's a great view in the restaurant/ bar area. I had one evening meal in the restaurant - it was very good and there was a big portion. There's a good selection of things at breakfast and it's displayed well.
The rooms are very clean and the beds and pillows are comfortable. I didn't use the facilities on the top floor, sunbeds,spa etc., but I thought it was missing ordinary chairs and umbrellas. My companion went up there a couple of times, but there was nowhere for me to sit - not everyone wants to lay on a sunbed in the full sun!
I've stayed in 3 different rooms here, and they were all slightly different. One was a bit small, and the table and chair were in the way all the time. One seemed bigger, but the air conditioning blew a cold draught, so we switched it off, there's plenty ventilation from the open balcony doors during the day.
The third was decorated in a cheerful yellow, with honey-coloured marble in the bathroom. In this room, the bath bottom, with the non-slip effect, had 2 small holes in it. So when you stood in it and ran water in, the floor was spongy and bubbles came out of the holes. We brought this to the attention of the staff, but I don't think they saw this as a problem. It wasn't obvious unless you were standing barefoot in the bath. If water was collecting under the non-slip bottom, this could cause a bad smell. The bath needed to be replaced, in my opinion. I still love the bathroom though!
Another good thing about this hotel is the sound-proofing. I didn't hear anything from other rooms and noise from the corridor was minimal.
There are several cafes, restaurants, bars and a few shops nearby. It's not too far to walk into the centre, the Ca. Larios area, but there are taxis very near and it's less than 4euros.
There is a the bullring at the non-seaview side of the hotel, and from upper floors there's a full view of the ring. Some people may find this unpleasant, especially if there's a bullfight on. I found it fascinating to watch the trainees practising with their capes in the afternoons.
The Maestranza is located at a complicated traffic system, and coming from the south - airport end - it's on the wrong side of the road, and if you miss the turning, you end up going a long way before there's a break in the barrier to turn back. Once you've found the hotel - it has quite a small entrance - there are cafes, bars, restaurants, and a few shops nearby, as well as the hotel's own fascililties. The beach is about 5 minutes away.
Although it's in a city, and near the beach and port, it's cushioned by all the gardens around. I would stay at the Maestranza again if ever I go back to
Malaga.

“ Top Tip: There's a good bakery/cafe almost next door to the hotel. If you go up to the Parador there is the most fantastic panoramic view of Malaga. There's a path up to it, but we went in a taxi - it's not far, just too steep for me!

“ Good position for the marina, promenade, bullring and the splendid gardens that run under the two castles that over look the sea front. Short walk into the old town with its cathedral, atmospheric quaint squares, shops etc. The hotel has no grounds and is situated on a busy dial carriageway so traffic noise could be a problem.
The restaurant is small; the half board menu rather limited and although the staff are polite and attentive there can be delays in the kitchen! Standard buffet breakfast.
The Health Suite was disappointing: saunas not working, and the jacuzzi out of order. A small gym was available.
Rooms clean and pleasantly furnished.

“ Top Tip: The garden close by are quite impressive and the marina development is worth exploring.

“ The hotel was fantastic we had a great time. No complaints at all, we were very pleased. The staff helpful as well

“ Hotel was excellent, friendly polite staff and we were upgraded so that was a pleasant surprise. Our room was clean and spacious. Only stayed one night but would stay again as it was in a good location.