We, 4 seniors, just returned from this resort which was a timeshare trade through RCI. Driving down from Puerto Vallarta is about a 4 hour drive. We arrived at night and didn't have specific details on how to reach the resort. We called the resort and the night clerk advised us to ask directions from a taxi cab driver as the clerk did not know English well and couldn't give us clear directions.We followed the taxi down a winding, long, narrow road off the main highway. Trying to find this resort at night is a challenge. Their sign is located by the highway but it needs a light and it doesn't face the highway if coming from Puerto Vallarta. We drove by the sign a couple of times without seeing it. At night it is difficult to see coming from the other direction,
We had a 2 bedroom unit which we shared with our traveling friends. The view from our 2 balconies was stunning, overlooking the bay and distant mts. This resort is built into the mts. which gives it the feel of privacy. We had the resort almost to ourselves during the week of Feb 5th. Service was excellent and staff helpful and friendly. Maid service every day was nice. This resort resembles the style of resorts in Costa Del Sol,Spain, white washed buildings and red tile roofs, built into the mts.
The beds are hard. Should be softer. The downstairs bedroom has twin beds in a small room with a small bathroom which is not comfortable for 2 seniors. The roomy upstaris bedroom has a king size bed and large bathroom We enjoyed the picturesque view of the bay and mts from the upstairs balcony. Showers had to be scheduled as the hot water was limited, perhaps due to only 3 or 4 units in the resort were inhabited. We never cooked in the room but the kitchen supplies and appliances were adequate. We had breakfast daily at the restuarant on site, El Bigotes. Food was good, not gourmet. Mahi mahi, the local fish was popular. Waiters are friendly, helpful ,cheerful and efficient. Local snowbirds come there frequently for Bridge games and meals. There was a friendly, singing musician nightly entertaining the diners. We ate dinner at other restaurants in Manzanillo, including the nearby Le Recif on the cliffs.
Landscaping is well manicured, beautiful with flowering trees, trimmed hedges, flowering bushes and cut green grass. The pool could have been cleaner, clear of mold. The beach is reached by crossing what seemed a new bridge. The sand is gray from volcanic ash. The water is warm, and shallow, great for little kids. Tables, chairs and colorful umbrellas line the beach and can be used if food or drink is purchased.
We used the computer in a small dark room and a staff person needs to open the locked door. The washer and dryers are old and a maid has to start them. The charge for the computer use and washer and dryer is added onto the bill. Bottled water is sold for $1:50 a gal. as there is a sign to not drink the water from the tap.
The four of us enjoyed the quiet week at this comfortable, cozy resort. A great place to relax in February and admire the view.
- Palma Real Manzanillo
