Medplaya Aparthotel Esmeraldas

We booked through Tui and it was excellent value. We had a studio on the 5 th floor (there are lifts) with a balcony on the poolside of the building (which from other reviews is the best side to have a room). We could see the pool, although in general the view isn’t great (back of apartments but not too close) and you can’t see the sea (although the balcony is nice and very sunny in the morning). The hotel itself is only a short walk from the shops, restaurants, beach, old town and castle. The studio had a well-equipped kitchen, modern bathroom with power shower, comfy beds and air con. It was all spotlessly clean. I swam everyday in the pool which was also well kept. We opted not to have the breakfast as preferred to prepare our own (the supermarkets are close by). Joao on reception was amazing. He is fluent in English, welcoming and very helpful. Nothing was too much trouble and he really is an asset to the company. Recommendations which we can verify as excellent choices include - Cafe D’en Biel for good food, music and location. The boat trip to the caves (discount voucher from reception) where they go in the caves and then drop you off at Cala Giverola - a great beach for a swim (boats run every 30 minutes). The little white train ride around Tossa de Mar is good - a bit bumpy but fun! Walking up through the old town and castle to the lighthouse - a nice walk (day and evening - do both) for good views and a bar at the top. We took the local bus to Girona - well worth a visit to the old town and magnificent cathedral. We also took a bus to Loret de Mar one morning - that was enough. Great if you’re 18 but not for us! Overall, if you want a good value holiday and like us don’t want the ‘all inclusive’, preferring more independence, then you can’t go wrong with Esmeraldas. It is good quality accommodation and a friendly service.