I wrote a review last year praising Hotel Koala and was so inspired by Tarifa and Andalucia that I ventured there again this year. Given my experience at Hotel Koala last year, it was the place I hoped to stay again. Luckily they had accommodations for us, albeit we agreed to move around from the spacious Lakoa apartment where we spent the majority of our 8 days to the small but charming Okala room. What I appreciate most about Koala is the laid back vibe and warmth created by Bjorn and Marta. It allows us to feel very comfortable and well provided for, So- if I want to take a handful of DVD's from the hotel collection to the apartment, there's no restriction. If I have a concern or need to inquire about anything, or simply want to chat, Bjorn and Marta....and lovely Samaya who worked the night shift, are receptive and gracious. I love the location in the old historic town. It's within the heart of all the restaurants and a short walk to the stunning beach of Los Lances We found it easy to find parking outside the old town at no cost. so when we ventured to Vejjar de la Frontera (a must) or Cadiz (also wonderful) or the neighboring beaches of zahara del los atunes and playa de valdevaqueros (beautiful with all the wind surfers) it was a manageable trek. The restaurants and tapa bars in the old historic town are wonderful and so easy to get to from Hotel Koala. The rooms themselves are modern and colorful and offer a kitchenette area with microwave, single espresso coffee maker, sink, small stove. There are plenty of pillows and blankets, towels, and kitchen supplies. Every morning a loaf of fresh bread is delivered to your door. The fridge is loaded with fresh milk and juice, and tea and coffee are provided, as well as a variety of cereals and spreads. This is the place I plan to visit every day I return to Andalucia....which most likely will be next year!

I have just returned from a tour round Andalucia, which incorporated a 3 night stop in Tarifa.

On the strength of previous reviews I booked my wife and I into the Koala. I can honestly say that the place is faultless.
The owners Marta and Bjorn, provide a high level of service, information,guidance advice etc

The rest of the staff are just as friendly and helpful.There is someone present to greet you 24/7, not bad for a five room Aparthotel.

If you ever need accomodation in this part of Spain then this is the place to stay. I use the Malmaison chain frequently in the UK, if Marta and Bjorn were to bring there concept to the UK, they would give such groups some stiff competition.

PS. This is the first time I have ever felt the need to post a Trip advisor report.

We stayed in this hotel apartment in August 2011.

The place is quite simple, however, like Tarifa itself.
What I liked about the interior is that the owner tried to make it look different. The entrance area has a modern design, so has the room itself. It's not the high-end, but far from old stincky hotels.

In the so-called hotel hall you can find a specially designated shower for your kite-surfing gear. It's convenient, as it's safe to leave the gear right there, as there's always the receptionist presenting at the entrance.

I wouldn't say, that the beds are super comfortable ( they are from IKEA), but kitesurfing all day you might not even feel it in the night.

The minus is the bathroom. It's located in a way, that no fresh air is going through it and as a result you have constant smell of damp. So, I used to hang my clothes to dry outside in the little inner garden-terrace (our room had an access door right into it).

The kitchen is equiped with all you need- plates, knives, spoons, cooking pots, cups, glasses for champaign (!) etc- everything. I took my Bialetti and and had my own fresh coffeee in the morning. On the kitchen table you can always find a basket with industrial croissants, jam, honey and mini packs of olive oil. There's a fridge, so whatever you buy for your daily cooking you can keep there. The fruit and vegetable shop is just few minutes walk, same is a little market with meat, cheese and bread.

I must say, that the manager- Martha, was very helpful. She looked genuinely friendly and was very responsive for the requests. Once you asked her for few additional packs of olive oil, she brings you a whole new bottle- and there's no even a word about extra charge. Apart of this she is a very true personality, which makes the communication with her very easy. However, I could say only good about every receptionist working there ( there are four of them).

There's no parking availbale; you have to find it on your own. Up the main street there's a citadel, so many people just park around it on a side of the raod ( it's few minutes walk from Koala).

So, Koala is not the the most luxury hotel apartment in the world, but the atmosphere in this little hostel is super nice!

Koala Was the perfect choice for my two friends and myself. We wanted to spend a few days in the heart of Old Tarifa and Koala got 5 stars in every category - the beautifully designed and immaculate accommodation, the quiet location tucked away in the heart of the old town, the proximity to endless fantastic eateries, the generous and warm spirits of Marta and Bjorn and their enthusiasm to share their knowledge of the Real Tarifa, away from rhe tourist trail. There is much more to recommend koala but we will leave that to reveal itself to you. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
Thank you Marta & Bjorn.