Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviews1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan is nestled in the tranquil town of Caldas de Malavella, providing an ideal retreat with its serene ambiance and historical charm. The hotel's location is highly convenient, offering easy access to Girona Airport, the train station and main routes to popular destinations such as Girona and the Costa Brava. The property is praised for its peaceful atmosphere, beautifully maintained outdoor areas and traditional spa, making it a great stopover or relaxation spot during longer journeys.
The breakfast service at the hotel stands out for its good variety and quality, including a range of hot and cold items, local delicacies, cured meats and pastries. The spacious and well-organized breakfast venue adds to the dining experience with some guests enjoying the option to eat on the terrace. Despite a few areas noted for improvement, such as more healthy options and vegetarian choices, the overall sentiment towards the breakfast is positive, often cited as a highlight of the stay.
Dinner experiences are mixed with the a la carte dishes receiving praise for their delicious taste, presentation and value for money. The restaurant and bar staff are commended for their attentive and friendly service. However, the buffet dinner falls short for some with concerns about variety, quality and pricing. Improvements in organization and service during dining hours are noted.
Rooms at the hotel are generally well-received for their spaciousness, comfort and cleanliness. Guests appreciate the historic charm blended with modern conveniences, including updated bathroom facilities and room amenities like Jacuzzis and balconies. Nonetheless, some rooms suffer from issues like worn-out furniture, noise and maintenance flaws.
Cleanliness at the hotel garners positive remarks, but there are occasional critiques about specific areas needing better upkeep, such as the gym, spa and certain rooms. The staff’s dedication to maintaining cleanliness is, however, frequently highlighted positively.
The hotel staff earns high marks from guests for their friendliness, attentiveness and efficiency. The professionalism of the reception team, as well as the service across various departments, significantly enhances the guest experience. Despite a few instances of less accommodating behavior, the staff's overall warmth and commitment to excellent service stand out.
Wi-Fi service at the hotel is an area needing improvement with many guests noting inconsistent connectivity and frequent disconnections. However, some issues are resolved by moving to different rooms.
The spa is appreciated for its comprehensive facilities and high-quality treatments, particularly the thermal circuit. However, criticisms about the spa's small size, overcrowding and additional charges for certain services are common. Maintenance and cleanliness within the spa also need attention.
The pool area is well-regarded for its cleanliness, size and relaxation opportunities with the heated and saltwater pools being particular favorites. Nonetheless, the limited pool hours and unexpected closures are points of frustration for some guests.
Guests frequently commend the hotel's ample, free parking, which is safe and convenient for cars, bikes and motorcycles. The family-friendly environment and activities, such as the thermal course, are appealing to families with children, though logistical issues like the pool's late opening hours and limited space during meal times can pose challenges.
Overall, 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan excels in providing a serene, charming retreat with convenient access to local attractions, making it a favored choice for travelers seeking relaxation, historical ambiance and good service. However, there are areas such as dinner service, specific room conditions, Wi-Fi connectivity and spa management that could benefit from further attention. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Historic Hotel
This hotel is housed in a historic thermal spa building, showcasing its original architectural features. Guests can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters and experience the spa's long-standing tradition. The hotel's historical significance and wellness focus make it a unique destination.
Hotel with Spa
Located in Caldes de Malavella, this spa hotel is set in a 19th-century Neo Mudéjar-style building. It offers a range of beauty and health treatments.
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
This hotel is listed as providing EV charging stations.
Hotel with Heated Pool
As a historic 'Balneario', the hotel is centered around its thermal waters, offering a heated thermal pool as a core part of its health and wellness facilities.
Hotel near Golf Courses
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Heated Pool Pool Lap Lanes Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
EV charging stations
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
3-Star Hotel
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Hotel with Pool Lap Lanes
Room Types
Double RoomFeaturing garden views, this air-conditioned room includes free WiFi, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with hairdryer.
Premium Double or Twin RoomThis air-conditioned room has 1 double bed and views of the beautiful gardens. It includes free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, kettle and a private bathroom with hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers.
Family RoomProviding free toiletries and bathrobes, this family room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The family room provides air conditioning, a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, as well as a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.
Junior SuiteFeaturing a terrace with a hot tub, this suite includes air conditioning, free coffee and tea, and a seating area with a sofa and a flat-screen TV. The bathroom comes with free toiletries and hydromassage shower.
SuiteThe spa bath is a top feature of this suite. This air-conditioned suite is comprised of a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a private bathroom as well as a terrace with garden views. The unit has 1 bed.
Twin RoomThe unit offers 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
8.0
Very Good
Location
Nestled in a serene, historically rich town, 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and ease of access. Its proximity to the train station, just a short walk away and easy parking options make it highly convenient for travelers. Located in Caldas de Malavella, the hotel is within easy reach of Girona Airport and main routes to popular destinations such as Girona and the Costa Brava.
Guests commonly praise the hotel's peaceful ambiance, complimenting its beautiful, spacious surroundings and grand historical architecture. The tranquility of the location, combined with beautifully maintained outdoor areas and a traditional spa, offers a perfect retreat from the bustling world. The serene environment is perfect for relaxation and offers a great spot for a stopover during longer journeys.
While the immediate vicinity has limited dining options during the week, the nearby town center is accessible within a ten-minute walk. The hotel also offers convenient access to local attractions such as the PGA Catalunya and Barcelona, making it a strategic base for short excursions.
In summary, 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan stands out because of its serene location, historical charm and convenience, making it a wonderful spot for travelers looking to unwind and explore the surrounding areas.
Breakfast
The breakfast at 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan generally receives positive feedback from guests. Many of the reviews highlight the variety and quality of the offerings with descriptors like "good and varied," "extensive," and "very complete" frequently mentioned. Guests appreciate the abundance of options, including both hot and cold items, local delicacies and a selection of cured meats and pastries. The buffet style seems to be a hit with several references to it being well-stocked and plentiful. The quality of coffee, served by excellent automatic coffeemakers, also receives particular praise.
The breakfast venue is noted for its spaciousness and organization, making for a comfortable dining experience. Some guests enjoyed having breakfast on the terrace, adding an extra pleasant dimension to their meal. High-quality and delicious food is mentioned consistently and the breakfast is often cited as a highlight of the stay.
However, there are a few areas noted for improvement. Some guests felt that the breakfast selection, although varied, could include more healthy options like fresh fruits and fresh juices. There are also mentions of inconsistency in quality with some items described as tasteless or not up to expectations. A few reviews pointed out the need for more vegetarian and vegan choices and some found the breakfast underwhelming, citing issues with greasy or overly tough dishes.
Despite these minor critiques, the overall sentiment is that the breakfast at 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan is a strong asset, offering a wide range of high-quality and delicious options that cater to a broad array of tastes.
Dinner
The dining experience at 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan has garnered mixed feedback. On the positive side, guests have praised the a la carte dishes for their delicious taste and excellent value for money, noting the restaurant offers a variety of healthy, gourmet meals. The service at the restaurant and bar has also been highlighted as excellent with staff providing attentive and friendly service. Many guests have described their meals as both delicious and well-presented, appreciating the option to dine on-site with a good selection of tapas and a 3-course menu.
However, some diners were less impressed with the buffet dinner, finding it lacking in variety and not meeting culinary expectations. Concerns were raised about the high price relative to the quality and scarcity of the food offered at the buffet. There were also mentions of poor organization and minimal service during breakfast, as well as issues with vegetarian options and accommodations for pets on the terrace.
Overall, while the restaurant's a la carte offerings and the quality of service are often commended, the buffet dinner and some specific service aspects have room for improvement.
Rooms
At the 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan, the rooms generally receive high praise for their spaciousness and comfort. Guests frequently highlight the cleanliness with many describing the rooms as exceptionally clean and well-maintained. The historic building adds a unique charm with features such as original floors giving the rooms a characteristic appeal. Beds and pillows are often noted for their comfort, contributing to a restful stay.
Several rooms offer beautiful views and feature amenities such as Jacuzzis and spacious balconies, adding an extra layer of luxury. Despite the historical aesthetics, the rooms are equipped with modern conveniences like refrigerators and updated bathroom facilities.
However, some reviews indicate that not all rooms receive the same level of upkeep. Issues such as worn-out furniture, musty smells and small sizes are mentioned in a few cases. Noise from nearby streets or the hotel's own facilities can also be a concern in some rooms. A few guests pointed out maintenance issues like broken furniture, leaky shower doors and insufficient lighting.
Overall, while the rooms can vary in quality, those in good condition are described as spacious, comfortable and charming, making for a pleasant stay in this historical hotel.
Beds
The beds at '1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan' receive mixed reviews from guests with a noticeable lean towards appreciating their comfort. Many guests highlight the beds as very comfortable, clean and providing excellent sleep quality. Descriptions such as comfortable, super comfortable and excellent comfort are frequently used. Several guests specifically noted the spaciousness and comfort of the larger beds, such as the 2x2 and those in triple rooms, which exceeded expectations.
However, not all experiences are positive. Some guests point out issues with the bedding, mentioning slightly worn, old or deformed mattresses, which detracted from their comfort. A few reviews mentioned that the beds were pushed together rather than being genuine doubles and several guests found the pillows to be uncomfortable or in need of replacement. Despite these occasional setbacks, the consensus suggests that while the hotel excels in offering comfortable beds to most guests, there are still areas for potential improvement.
Cleanliness
'1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan' receives mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness standards. On the positive side, many guests highlighted the hotel's overall cleanliness, mentioning that the facilities, including the reception, common areas and rooms, are generally well-maintained and tidy. Specific feedback praised the meticulous care, clean swimming pool and spotless rooms, contributing to a comfortable and relaxing stay. Words like impeccable, very clean and well-maintained are recurrently associated with various aspects of the hotel. The staff also garnered positive comments for their friendliness and effectiveness in maintaining cleanliness.
However, the reviews also reveal some areas needing improvement. Some guests noted that certain rooms were not as clean as expected, pointing out dust, crumbs, liquid splatters, hairs in bathrooms and sticky floors. Specific areas like the gym, showers and the spa received criticism for not meeting cleanliness standards. There were mentions of outdated facilities, neglected maintenance and basic repairs needed, such as chipped doors, loose switches and worn-out carpets. The cleanliness of common areas and specific room issues indicate areas for potential enhancement.
Overall, while many guests found the hotel generally clean and well-cared-for, there are clear signals that some aspects, particularly related to room cleanliness and maintenance, could benefit from more attention.
Staff
The staff at '1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan' receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests. Visitors frequently praise the staff for being friendly, attentive and efficient in their duties. The reception team is highlighted for their professionalism and helpfulness, often described as exceptionally friendly and accommodating. The service provided by all departments, including the spa, bar and restaurant, is consistently commended for its high quality.
Guests also appreciate the pet-friendly atmosphere and the pleasant demeanor of the housekeeping staff and waiters. Although there were occasional mentions of unaccommodating or abrupt behavior from some employees, these instances appear to be exceptions rather than the norm. Overall, the staff's warmth, kindness and commitment to excellent service significantly enhance the guest experience at the hotel.
Wi-Fi
Guests at the 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan have noted several issues with the hotel's Wi-Fi service. While Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, many reviews mention inconsistent connectivity with frequent disconnections and a need to log in repeatedly, often limited to a maximum of two devices. Despite these issues, some guests found that problems, such as weak connections, were swiftly resolved by moving to a different room. Overall, there is a consensus that the Wi-Fi could be improved to offer a more reliable and efficient online experience.
Spa
The '1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan' offers a spa experience that, while highly regarded by many for its comprehensive and well-maintained facilities, does have some areas in need of improvement. Visitors consistently praised the thermal circuit, describing it as very good and a must-try. The spa is also noted for being quite complete with facilities that are generally in good condition.
However, the spa's size and capacity management drew criticism. Many guests found the spa to be small and frequently overcrowded, which detracted from the overall experience. There were mentions of outdated and poorly maintained areas within the spa and a few guests felt that the cleanliness could be improved. The lack of inclusion of the spa in the room price and the additional charges for services like massages and the thermal circuit were also points of contention.
Despite some negative feedback, the spa remains a favorite for some, who appreciated the professional and high-quality services offered. Treatments such as massages were highly commended, adding to the spa’s appeal as a place of well-being and relaxation. On the whole, the spa at '1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan' offers a enjoyable retreat, particularly valued for its thermal circuit, provided one visits during less crowded times.
Pool
The reviews of the pool at 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan reveal a generally positive guest experience. The outdoor swimming pool is frequently praised for its size, modernity and cleanliness. Many guests enjoyed the heated pool, which provided a pleasant swimming experience even during colder times. The pool area is described as relaxing and well-maintained with convenient facilities such as sun loungers and an outdoor seating area for a late afternoon aperitif.
Guests particularly appreciated the thermal pools, noting them as very relaxing and ideal for a winter visit. Additionally, the saltwater pool received commendations for its uniqueness.
However, some criticisms were noted. Various reviews mentioned that the pool was sometimes too cold and occasionally small. The pool schedule appeared to be a recurrent issue with several guests frustrated by the limited hours and unexpected closures. Despite these drawbacks, the swimming pool and surrounding area are generally regarded as excellent amenities that enhance the overall stay at the hotel.
Parking
Guests at 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan consistently highlight the convenience and abundance of the hotel's parking facilities. The parking area is described as large, ample and spacious, making it easy to find a spot without any hassle. Many reviews emphasize that the parking is free, which adds extra value for visitors. Although the parking is uncovered, it is noted to be safe and practical for both cars and other vehicles with some guests mentioning security arrangements for bikes and motorcycles. Overall, the parking at this hotel is regarded as a notable positive feature, offering easy, free and ample options for guests.
Family
1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan offers a range of activities and amenities catering to families with children. Guests have enjoyed the opportunity to participate in the thermal course with their children, adding a unique and engaging experience for all ages. The hotel is frequently described as family-friendly with the spa providing various opportunities and allowing pets, making it a convenient choice for pet-owning families. The environment is favorable for family relaxation, highlighted by comments about its suitability for family stays and great shelter for families.
Despite its positive aspects, there are some limitations. The pool's late opening time at 10:30 am does not align well with the needs of families with children. The spa, while offering numerous family opportunities, is small and has limited availability for reservations, suggesting the need for advance planning. Additionally, there were mentions of inadequate family space, particularly during breakfast and dinner, which may be an inconvenience. Pricing is noted as being high for its category, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious families. Overall, the hotel comes highly recommended for its family-friendly atmosphere and activities, though some logistical issues could affect convenience.
3 Star
1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan is a three-star establishment known for its cozy and quiet spa location. Guests appreciate the value for money, noting the charm the hotel brings at a reasonable cost. Despite some mixed feelings about the high prices and limited amenities, the quality-price service is generally viewed positively. While some reviewers find the hotel to be more suited for elderly or sick people and question its three-star rating, there are still positive comments highlighting the comfortable ambiance. Overall, it is considered a good option within its category, but with some areas that could benefit from improvements, especially in terms of amenities and service clarity.
Heated Pool
The '1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan' offers a variety of pool options that have received mixed feedback from guests. The hotel features both an indoor and an outdoor pool with several mentions of the pools being heated. Guests appreciated the large, heated outdoor swimming pool and noted that the heated water added to their comfort. The hotel also boasts a thermal pool with hot and saline water, which received positive remarks for its unique properties.
However, there were some criticisms regarding the temperature consistency of the indoor pools with a few guests noting it was not up to their expectations from previous visits. Additionally, there were mentions of overcrowding in the indoor pool area, suggesting it might get busy during peak times.
Aside from the pools, the hotel's overall service was highlighted as being urgently attentive and the reception and animation were noted favorably by the guests. Despite some logistical challenges, the heated pools at '1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan' generally seem to enhance the guest experience.
Outdoor Pool
The outdoor pool at the 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan has received numerous positive remarks from guests. It is frequently described as large, clean and beautiful, making it a standout feature of the hotel. The pool's saltwater and eco-friendly aspects add a unique touch, appreciated by many. Guests have highlighted the heated and semi-heated options, making it comfortable for use in various weather conditions. The pool area is complemented by a beautiful garden and lovely outdoor seating where one can enjoy a late afternoon aperitif, contributing to a tranquil and scenic environment. Though a few guests felt that the pools were smaller than expected, most reviews report a fantastic, modern and updated pool area that enhances the overall guest experience. The outdoor pool is seen as an ideal place for relaxation and exercise, making it a defining feature of the hotel.
Historic
Nestled in a building that has stood proudly since 1881, 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan embodies a captivating blend of historical richness and modern comfort. The hotel, a former spa renowned for its thalassotherapy treatments, exudes an air of elegance through its beautifully preserved architecture and décor. The structure, infused with an old-fashioned charm, is a testament to authentic Catalan and Spanish history, offering a magical journey to the past within its walls.
Guests consistently laud the hotel's historical ambiance, noting its vibrant, traditionally themed interiors that preserve the essence of the bygone era. The property, often likened to a castle, stands out with its impressive modernist style, a characteristic that adds to its nostalgic allure. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained interior that harmoniously blends old-world charm with contemporary facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
The hotel's grounds and restaurant enhance its historic appeal, providing a serene setting that complements the architectural beauty. The attentive service further elevates the experience, making it a distinguished choice for those seeking both historical depth and hospitality.
Dog Friendly
The '1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan' has received widespread praise for its dog-friendly policies and amenities. Guests appreciate that the establishment allows them to bring their pets, making it a popular choice among those traveling with dogs. Many reviewers highlight the hotel as a super pet-friendly place, welcoming both small and medium-sized dogs. Thoughtful touches like poop bag dispensers, comfortable little beds and bowls for food and water enhance the experience for canine guests.
However, the hotel has some limitations and costs associated with bringing pets. Guests noted that dogs weighing more than 10-20 kg are not accepted. An extra fee is required for bringing dogs with some guests describing the charge as quite expensive, almost as high as the hotel room itself for a small dog. Specific rules include not allowing dogs in the restaurant areas, which is something prospective visitors should consider.
Overall, for travelers with small to medium dogs who do not mind the extra fees, '1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan' provides a comfortable and welcoming environment. Though there are occasional disturbances caused by unattended barking dogs, the general feedback remains positive for those seeking a pet-friendly accommodation option.
Yes, 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Pool Lap Lanes, Outdoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan.
Yes, 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan.
Yes, 1881 Hotel Balneario Vichy Catalan has a gym.