Can You Judge a Hotel By Its Picture?

Where: Ctra. de Cadiz, Km. 166, Marbella, Spain, 29679

5/29/2008 at 11:23 AM
Tags: Luxury Hotels, Spain Hotels, Marbella Hotels, Ritz-Carlton Hotels

"Um, wow," were the first words that came to mind when we first laid eyes on Hotel Villa Padierna in Marbella, Spain. A destination unto itself, the Ritz-Carlton property has 112 guest rooms and suites, a 21,000-square-foot Thermae Spa, beach access, two pools and an 18-hole golf course.  

Despite our initial impression (and really, look at that picture--who wouldn't have that reaction?) it seems the hotel leaves something to be desired among some past guests. One recent reviewer said the hotel is a retreat for "golf lovers only," which likely ties into other guest complaints that Villa Padierna is "within walking distance to nowhere."

Surprisingly, some complain about the price of food and drinks onsite. (Honestly, we'd like to meet the people who sign up for a room at the Ritz-Carlton and then gripe about a $15 cocktail.)

A more legitimate dislike seems to be that not all rooms have balconies, so when you book, be sure to ask for a room with a terrace. Just don't then have the audacity to complain about the view.  

[Photo: Webhexe_2]