Iberostar Jardin del Sol Suites

Returned from a stay at Jardin Del Sol, and can only echo what other positive reviews have to say. On arrival we were taken to the prestige reception offered a glass of cava and checked in efficiently. We had booked to stay in a junior suite with star prestige benefits but were offered a discounted price to upgrade to one of the penthouse suites. After looking at both rooms, there was only one outcome - to take the penthouse! The suite was well proportioned with a separate bedroom at the back with amply storage (safe and clothes steamer in the wardrobe), a nice bathroom suite with walk in shower (however, no privacy screen which may be an issue for some) and a nice lounge area, which led onto the balcony. The all inclusive package included the mini bar which was restocked daily. There was a hairdryer (without a nozzle) and straighteners in the room which were satisfactory - but if you prefer salon standard I would bring your own. The views from this hotel are something else, perfect views of the bay and glorious sunsets. In this penthouse the stairs led up to a private terrace which had an area for sun-lounging and a small plunge pool with Balinese bed. We were there during the recent heatwave which meant this area was extremely hot, and did not have any breeze, some days it was better down by the pool. One issue is that when the roof top window (to access the terrace) was open, the air conditioning in the room stops. This is also the case if the balcony door is open. There is however a ceiling fan in the bedroom. The hotel has two private pools for the prestige guests but we noticed the sun-loungers were all reserved by 9am (despite reception having a notice which said they could not be unattended for more than 45mins). The main pool is much larger and has a nice bar area which is where the live music of an evening was. There is no access to a beach but there are steps into the sea. The beach in Santa Ponca is walking distance either at street level or along a make-shift boardwalk further down the street. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars and shops within walking distance. The restaurant in the hotel was very good quality we did not need to eat out at all. The breakfast offered a nice spread of fresh fruit, yogurts, cereals, and hot food including an omelette station. The lunch also included a nice variety of hot and cold food with particularly delicious salads. One benefit of being all inclusive in the penthouse suite meant there was an alternative to the buffet lunch - dining in the pool bar, which we took advantage of several times. This was table service and felt much more relaxing. We would have preferred more table service options in the evening. In the main buffet hall the evening meals were equally impressive with plenty of variety and themed food which changed daily. The quality of the food was one of the best we’ve experienced. We also booked into the teppanaki restaurant for one evening (as was included) which was overall a positive experience. Being a penthouse guest, there is a separate restaurant area which included three tables on the terrace. This meant we could bypass any queue and head straight in. There was waiter service for drinks but all food was buffet self-service. One notable different about this hotel and others we’ve been to, were the friendliness of the staff. All those we encountered were attentive, considerate and made the overall experience a positive one. Particularly, Petronella, Dominika, and Diana in the prestige bar and Jesus and Julia in the main restaurant. This area had some relaxing comfy chairs elevated over the pool (the only thing missing was some background music). Nico in the teppanaki was also excellent. The reception staff were also very helpful, including Charlotte at check in. They also made booking car hire easy, all was arranged within 24hrs. This hotel is one of the very few that we said we would happily return to and highly recommend to others. If you get a chance book it! Opt for the star prestige package it is worth it.

The service from Montse and Juan Carlos the maître d' was great. We felt very good, the food was delicious.

I can only comment on the ‘Prestige’ booking that we chose. Those little extras made our holiday even more special. A glass of Cava or something on arrival and a discreet Room/card bracelet , and great welcoming reception staff. Our Junior Suite room was fabulous, spacious, balcony with sea view exceptionally clean . Beautifully soft towels, dressing gowns and slippers , free drinks bar (1st day), hair dryer, straightening tongs, clothes steamer etc. Great food, superb members of staff and exceptional service. Great areas for relaxation, swimming, Spa, Gym and entertainment throughout the day and evening. And So much more ……….