Los Dalmatas

We stayed at Port Benidorm for a week in mid-July and overall I'd give it a solid 8/10. Check-in was straightforward. We arrived mid-morning and, as expected, our room wasn't quite ready. The hotel has a luggage room behind reception though, so we were able to get changed and make use of the pool while we waited, which was a nice touch. First impressions were really good. The reception has been refurbished and looks far more modern than a lot of the hotels nearby. We stayed in one of the new Sky Tower rooms on the first floor. I'd originally requested a higher floor but the hotel was full, so it wasn't possible. In the end, it actually worked out better because the first floor gives direct access to the pool area, so getting around was really convenient. The room itself was excellent. As you'd expect from something that's only been open a few months, everything was spotless, modern and felt fresh. The bed was really comfortable with a firm mattress, which suits us perfectly, and we both slept well all week. The air conditioning deserves a mention too - really quiet, ice cold and easy to control from the wall thermostat. Despite the Triangle Bar being across the road, noise wasn't an issue. Once the balcony doors were closed you genuinely wouldn't know it was there. The bathroom was another highlight, especially the large walk-in shower with a proper rainfall head and excellent water pressure. We originally booked half board but upgraded to all inclusive for €22 per person per night, which I thought was well worth it. Food was better than I'd expected after reading some previous reviews. There was always plenty of choice, from typical English favourites through to Spanish dishes, and something different each day. I'd seen comments saying the food was only ever lukewarm, but that definitely wasn't our experience. There are microwaves available if you wanted one. At each meal there was a chef cooking fresh meat or fish, usually chicken or pork. The pool bar food can be a bit hit and miss. Earlier in the afternoon it seemed to be using some of the breakfast leftovers, but around 1:30pm it switched over to lunch options like paella, burgers, chips and chicken wings, which were much better. Drinks on the all-inclusive package included Estrella on draught, local spirits, soft drinks and a selection of cocktails. Just bear in mind the usual Spanish measures apply! The pool area is really nice and gets the sun for most of the day. We particularly liked the divide between the shallow and deeper sections where you can sit in the water, soak up the sun and watch the world go by. Although be warned... it doubles up as the volleyball net, so expect the occasional ball to the head! One thing that really stood out was the number of sunbeds. At no point did we struggle to find two together, regardless of what time we went down, and thankfully there was no towel reserving while we were there. The entertainment team put a lot of effort into getting people involved, but they weren't pushy if you just wanted to relax. Evenings started with a kids' disco before two live acts. I'd also recommend trying the spa. It's €15 for an hour and includes a pool, sauna and steam room. It was a nice escape from the hustle and bustle around the main pool. The staff were all friendly, although they always seemed incredibly busy. A special mention goes to Jose at the pool bar, who never stopped. He somehow managed to keep everyone served quickly while constantly clearing tables, all with a smile on his face. The only real issue we experienced was when the fire alarm went off around midnight one evening. There wasn't really any direction from staff as to whether there was an actual problem or whether we should evacuate. There was just one member of staff on reception who understandably didn't have much information. Location-wise it's excellent. Levante Beach is only a two-minute walk away, and if you want the nightlife it's about a ten-minute walk to the Strip. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants right on the doorstep. The only other negative I'd mention is the sewage smell around reception. It wasn't there all the time, but when it was, it could be quite strong. We paid £501 per person for the week, which I think is an absolute bargain for a newly refurbished hotel. Overall we had a great stay and wouldn't hesitate to return.

No doubting it is a great hotel, staff (on the whole), service, rooms, location, etc, but not able to cater for those with an allergy, ie nuts, in many ways it might have been better to remove the allergy cards completely. - The labels themselves were far too small to read. - The symbols used to describe the "allergen" were impossible to decipher as there was no legend/key that you could read what they were (not good when you have a nut allergy). - Restaurants staff on the whole were good, but their English was as good as my Spanish! If there was a legend/key then I could check it myself. - If you are going to continue to use the digital labelling system then at least put the labels next to the correct food (see photos as examples). - Gluten is generally an "intolerance" that won't kill you on the spot unlike an "allergy" that can (even when prepared with an EpiPen). - Was totally cheesed off when couldn't even eat brussel sprouts because they had been sprinkled with nuts all over them (and that wasn't listed on the allergy card). I found the food ok but my wife was really limited on what to choose each day at mealtimes, as very unsure sometimes as to what would be safe and what might send her to hospital. On a completely different point, you stop people using floats in the pool (very sensible rule which is enforced) but can you enforce your no smoking rule around the pool too!!!

It is incredible how good the hotel is. From the staff, the quality and variety of the buffet, the new and well-maintained facilities, the different spaces the hotel offers, to the parking. Everything 10/10!! We will definitely return. We went as a family and the room was super spacious and comfortable. Also, my daughter is celiac, and I must highlight the buffet because in other 4-star hotels we have not had the response and variety for her as we did here.