Hotel Cala Chica

Reviewed by Michael Soffe


SPARKLING BLUE OF THE MED ………..

Las Negras is a small seaside village on the southern edge of the Cabo de Gata National Park in Almeria. The park is a bird-watchers paradise as it is on one of the main migratory routes between Africa and Europe. Fiercely protected by environmentalists, the scourge of plastic greenhouses that plagues a lot of Almeria (often known as the vegetable garden of Europe) is absent from this area – you will see what I mean on the drive from the airport!!. The Mediterranean Sea sparkles vividly.

250 metres from the beach, the Hotel Cala Chica is a 26 bedroomed Hotel on a hillside with the most wonderful sea views over the top of the village. It has a strikingly contemporary feel as you enter reception, simply furnished and gleamingly clean. Oriol, the Director, is justifiably proud of what has been created here. It is a young team, and their enthusiasm is infectious. They love their Hotel and the magnificent scenery and beaches of the national Park. Frequented by walkers and bird-watchers of all nationalities in the cooler months (although Almeria has the sunniest climate in mainland Europe) and filled with Spaniards “in the know” for July and August when it is normally sold out by February.

The bedrooms are simply furnished but not bare. Many have sea views and for me it would be imperative to ask for this when booking. There is a suite with two terraces and three junior suites with Jacuzzis on their terraces. All the other rooms are doubles. There is also a double room especially adapted for wheelchair access and lifts between the floors. All rooms are equipped with Satellite TV; Minibar and Safe. The suites have a DVD (selection in reception) and Tea and Coffee making facilities.

From reception (which is on the upper level as you enter from the top of the hill) a staircase (or lift) will take you down to the bar and restaurant, outside terraces and the swimming pool. All have a contemporary feel and you can dine both inside and out when weather permits. The restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with a three-course meal (a choice of 3 starters, main courses and desserts), that changes on a daily basis. There is always a choice of fresh fish and meat.

Reception can arrange bicycle hire, horse-riding at nearby stables and advise on walking routes in the National park. A guide is available. There is also a diving school nearby and boat hire. Naturists can choose from several beautiful unspoilt beaches.

An ideal hotel for those who like a simpler Hotel with friendly service, beach lovers, walkers and bird-watching.