Colmeal Countryside Hotel

Unfortunately, my visit didn't even happen, so this review is about the service I experienced that ultimately led to a decision of not booking my stay. After a total of 10 calls, the only one where I got the initial information was answered by the reception, and I was informed about the options available at the hotel and overall facilities, which sounded lush! I thought we were on to a winner. We were not. As I wanted to clarify an aspect of the room prior to making a payment, over 2 days, I tried to call 9 times, and didn't have an answer, a call back, only an email telling me the quiet room I'd asked for would be mine if I made the payment that day. I wonder if with it being the "land of silence" if the phone is also on silence, too. I have then emailed the hotel with the MD in cc confirming that my booking was not going ahead, explaining why, and you guessed it!!!!! I got nothing back, silence... maybe they don't really need guests! Who knows? I would not feel safe being at a place where if I needed something, urgent or not, only maaaaybe the phone would be picked at the other end. Have that in mind prior to booking, please.

The experience far exceeded our expectations!!!! The architectural project is very interesting, resulting in clean and comfortable spaces, but without ever affecting visually what was the original aesthetic of the village. We are surrounded by nature and communing with it. The pool area was excellent but even more appealing with the lemonade and homemade cake that was served every afternoon. It was kids and grownups alike favorite part. Maybe breakfast aswell :) it was amazing. Felt like being home! They have several areas available, with toys and books, for the entertainment of guests. Dinner was always of high quality, although I think a more informal alternative for the kids was needed - yet on request they've made food that suited their (not so refined) taste. Thank you Paulo, Carla and Gina for such a warm reception! To return for sure!

Let me put my cards on the table. My wife and I are both in our 70s. She is super-fit and would return to the hotel like a shot. I have stiff hips and a back injury that limit my mobility, and I would not. I get around well enough, it’s seating and steep stairs that can be an issue. At Colmeal they were, specifically the seating. I couldn’t sit on either the low armchairs or the hard dining room chairs that are found everywhere in the hotel. The deck chairs were also beyond me, although I was fine on the stairs. (There are no elevators to the lower floor.) Só, if you have mobility issues or a herniated disc, you might want to consider whether the venue is suitable for your needs. Other thoughts, The steady Wi-Fi signal in our cottage was welcome. So we’re the multiple electric sockets (plug points) Unless the TV has been used recently, it may require setting up. You may see/hear hunters banging away in season. The (early October) swimming pool is not for the faint-hearted. (We swam very briefly.) While the nights were cool, the days were hot. The cottage air conditioning units turned themselves silently on and off. The staff were lovely.