Hotel Aigua Blava, Begur

Pros

• Set on the coast, guests can enjoy views of Aiguablava Bay and the region's rocky coastline from some of the rooms and many of the common areas.
• The hotel sits between two perfect swimming spots, both less than a 5-minute stroll away.
• The on-site restaurant serves seasonal Catalan fare from an elegant dining room or seafront terrace.
• Rooms are modern and airy with private balconies or terraces, and some have panoramic sea views.
• This is an ideal spot for active families, with a heated saltwater pool, tennis courts, bike rentals, table tennis, and badminton. 

Cons

• The hotel's restaurant is quite expensive and might not fit everyone's budget, and there aren't many other options nearby. 
• The slightly tucked-away location means you'll want a car if you plan on dining off-site or exploring farther afield.

Authenticity

Clara Capellà, known as "La Clareta," established Hotel Aigua Blava in 1934, and the current management has been with the property for four generations. As a result, the lodging hasn't lost its quaint, family-owned vibe over the years, now spread across multiple buildings that merely add to the village-like feel. The long-serving staff is warm and helpful, and guests tend to return year after year. Plus, you'll experience the very essence of Costa Brava from this spot, as it was where local politicians decided to give the region its famous name, which means "Rough Coast."

Location

Though not in Begur's historic center, Hotel Aigua Blava is set in nearby Fornells, overlooking one of the coast's loveliest beaches with a backdrop of green hills dotted with white buildings. You'll be about a 10-minute drive from the medieval hilltop center with Begur Castle, but as a tradeoff, the hotel is just a 5-minute walk from three swimming spots and gives you easy access to the famous Camí de Ronda walking trail, which links the coast's villages. Girona is about a one-hour drive, and you can reach Barcelona in under two hours. There's free parking on-site, including EV charging stations.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 85 air-conditioned rooms are bright and recently renovated, with balconies or terraces and modern bathrooms with walk-in showers and L'Occitane toiletries. The simple, understated decor feels in keeping with the coastal setting, featuring pale wood floors, plenty of natural light, and a palette of white, cream, and navy. For the full experience, you'll want to book ahead for one of the sea view rooms, while corner rooms let you enjoy the sights and sounds of the sea from two sides. Suites add more space and separate living areas, and the hotel also offers a selection of self-catering apartments for longer stays.

Amenities

The hotel's amenities include a large outdoor saltwater pool with a bar and sun deck, tennis and badminton courts, table tennis, and bicycle rentals. There are also spa services (like massages and body treatments), a beauty salon, and a small fitness center equipped with the basics. Breakfast is included in the room rate, and the on-site restaurant serves seasonal Catalan cuisine in three different spaces, either on the terrace overlooking Aiguablava Bay, on the wisteria-draped garden patio, or inside a bright, airy dining room. Though the ambience is beautiful, it's one of the few eateries in the area and is quite expensive. You can relax in several lounge areas, including one with a TV, two PCs, a library, and a piano. 

Family-Friendliness

Hotel Aigua Blava is great for families. Children under two stay for free, while those between three and 12 get a reduced rate. Extra beds can be added to most rooms, and there are family room options that sleep four with two bedrooms. Book one of the apartments for a longer stay and plenty of space. You'll find children's amenities like a playground and a kids' menu, and the easy beach access and sheltered swimming spots are ideal for little ones.