We have just returned from a nine day stay at this amazing hotel. What made it amazing was undoubtedly the staff.
The entire staff of the hotel worked as a team and without exception were a credit to the Abba chain. Special thanks to Marina for organising our revised flight home after we were to be stranded due to the industrial action that crippled Spain and Europe on the 29th September. Thanks also to the housekeeping staff who ensured that our room was kept spotless.
Cleanliness is a trademark of life in Spain which we have never encountered anywhere else in our travels to such a high degree. The Spanish people are a delight and so friendly even when we speak so little Spanish.
The Abba Playa is situated opposite the gorgeous San Lorenzo beach with a busy road in between although this hardly mattered. We didn't have any transport as the plan was to have a car free holiday for a change. There were many walks from the hotel and one day we walked to the Botanic Gardens and even popped into the University to look at the wonderful architecture. If you stay at the AP you will enjoy the park which is across the road.
Our room was small but scrupulously clean and with plenty of hanging space. No coffee making facilities but this is usual on the continent. The bathroom was large and the shower excellent. An inroom safe was appreciated.
Negatives? I am hard pushed to find any although sorry that the hotel does not hire bikes. It was a trek to hire one so a closer source of bikes would have been appreciated. Motor cycles were available but not the simple bike!! Also the pool was closed despite being advertised as being open in September.
VERY disappointed at the Bellavista restaurant. We did try to translate the menu but needed help and the waiter made obvious his distain to our poor Spanish. We were irritated at his unhelpfulness and snobbishness so thought they obviously didn't need our custom so left the restaurant. Hopefully we make visitors to England more valued than we were made to feel at the Bellavista!!
Do eat at the Plaza Mayor restaurants as you will get excellent value for money at the restaurants and such historic surroundings.
We have now explored the coastline from San Sebastian to Gijon to the Picos Mountains plus an innumerate amount of towns inbetween and can say that Asturian and Cantabrian areas are well worth a consideration for a memorable holiday.
- Abba Playa Gijon Gijón
