A pool is a necessity in Málaga, as an afternoon dip is a perfect reprieve in this Andalusian city. Some of the best mid-range hotels with pools offer this perk on lively rooftops or surrounded by palm trees and incredible views.
## Molina Lario Hotel: A Detailed Exploration
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Málaga, the **Molina Lario Hotel** stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity and historical reverence. Named in honor of one of the city’s most distinguished families, this exceptional establishment seamlessly weaves together the charm of two meticulously preserved historic buildings, each boasting its original façade, with the sleek sophistication of a contemporary new build. The result is a captivating blend of modern design and the timeless allure of Art Deco, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance and understated glamour.
Imagine yourself immersed in this sophisticated ambiance, further enhanced by the delightful perk of an outdoor swimming pool gracing the hotel’s rooftop terrace. Positioned in such a prime location, the pool offers truly breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the cityscape, encompassing the sparkling expanse of the sea and the majestic silhouette of the Cathedral. The pool itself is generously sized, providing ample space for leisurely relaxation, invigorating swims, or simply a refreshing dip to escape the warm Spanish sun.
Indulge in the pleasure of securing a coveted poolside chair or sinking into one of the plush, inviting couches that line the terrace. As you bask in the sunshine and soak up the stunning surroundings, treat yourself to a delectable drink from the conveniently located bar, adding the perfect finishing touch to your rooftop oasis experience.
The hotel’s inherent glamour extends seamlessly into its gourmet restaurant, **Matiz**, a culinary haven that promises an unforgettable dining experience. Here, you can savor exquisite meals within the restaurant’s beautiful courtyard setting, a tranquil and enchanting space that perfectly complements the innovative cuisine. For dinner, embark on a culinary journey with the tasting menu, expertly paired with a selection of fine wines to enhance each flavor and create a harmonious symphony of taste. Of course, **Matiz** also provides a delightful setting for enjoying a leisurely breakfast, setting the tone for a day of exploration and discovery in Málaga.
Beyond the allure of the rooftop terrace and its refreshing pool, the **Molina Lario Hotel** offers additional spaces for relaxation and socializing. Discover a second terrace on the sixth floor, providing alternative vantage points for admiring the cityscape, or unwind in the intimate ambiance of the small lobby lounge, a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or casual conversation.
The hotel’s rooms are thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and stylish retreat. Each room is bright, modern, and impeccably appointed, showcasing a refined aesthetic and elevated touches that elevate the overall experience. From a carefully curated pillow menu, allowing you to customize your sleep experience, to the plush comfort of provided bathrobes, every detail has been considered to ensure your utmost comfort and satisfaction. While the standard room option may be slightly compact, opting for a superior room or higher will provide you with a more spacious and luxurious haven. Select rooms also offer the added bonus of captivating sea views and functional desks, catering to both leisure and business travelers. For those seeking the ultimate in space and comfort, the hotel’s suites feature separate seating areas, creating a distinct living space for relaxation and entertainment. Families will find the largest option in the family rooms, which offer the flexibility of adding one or two additional beds to accommodate larger groups.
The **Molina Lario Hotel** boasts a near-perfect location, situated at the end of the historic street, **Calle Molina Lario**, and at the beginning of the verdant Málaga Park. Its position across the street from the picturesque waterfront promenade, **Paseo del Muelle Uno**, further enhances its appeal. This strategic location effectively straddles the old and new aspects of Málaga, offering guests a truly immersive experience. You’ll find yourself surrounded by a diverse array of attractions, including gourmet restaurants serving international cuisine, local hangouts offering authentic cultural experiences, and artisan shops tucked away on charming corners, waiting to be discovered. With such a central location, you’ll be within easy walking distance of all the major sites, including the iconic Cathedral, the renowned **Picasso Museum**, the historic Alcazaba fortress, and the imposing Castillo de Gibralfaro, allowing you to effortlessly explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Málaga.
## Room Mate Valeria Hotel: A Stylish Urban Oasis
The **Room Mate Valeria Hotel** stands out as a contemporary gem in Málaga, where one of its most compelling assets is undoubtedly its incredible rooftop terrace and pool. This urban oasis offers guests an unparalleled experience, combining relaxation, breathtaking views, and a stylish ambiance. Imagine yourself unwinding on the fantastic rooftop terrace, complete with a heated pool, a sun deck for soaking up the Mediterranean sunshine, and a chic bar serving refreshing beverages. The panoramic vistas from this vantage point are truly awe-inspiring, encompassing sweeping sea views and the majestic Castillo de Gibralfaro perched high above the city.
While the pool itself is on the smaller side, it provides the perfect setting for a refreshing dip, a relaxing cool-down, or simply lounging in the sun. Spacious, striped sun loungers line the pool, inviting you to recline and bask in the warmth. A large bar with comfortable stools and shaded seating offers the ideal spot to sip on tasty drinks while enjoying the captivating surroundings.
Strategically located at the edge of the trendy **SOHO** district, the vibrant marina, and the entrance to the historic Old Town, the **Room Mate Valeria Hotel** boasts a prime location that puts the entire city within easy reach. The **SOHO** neighborhood is renowned for its eclectic mix of bars and international restaurants, offering a diverse culinary scene to explore. Furthermore, the hotel’s proximity to the modern Paseo del Muelle Uno and the lush Málaga Park provides guests with immediate access to waterfront promenades and tranquil green spaces. Other notable sites within walking distance include the iconic Cathedral, the historic Alcazaba, the popular Playa la Malagueta beach, and the imposing Castillo de Gibralfaro, ensuring that you can effortlessly immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture.
The **Room Mate Valeria Hotel** offers a variety of room options to suit different needs and preferences, including basic rooms, standard rooms, and luxurious suites, as well as options for families with connecting units. Generally, the rooms are on the smaller side, so if you desire more space, opting for a suite is highly recommended. Some units also offer the added bonus of captivating sea views and charming Juliette balconies, allowing you to enjoy the Mediterranean breeze and stunning vistas from the comfort of your own room. It is worth noting that all the rooms feature a distinctive bright blue or green décor, including vibrant wallpaper and carpeting, which may not appeal to all guests. However, this bold and contemporary design contributes to the hotel’s unique and stylish character.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the hotel’s historical building, showcasing meticulously restored facades that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. However, once inside, you’ll be transported into a modern and vibrant world, characterized by a theme that celebrates the area’s natural environment. A refreshing green and blue color scheme and jungle-inspired wallpaper create a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. The **Room Mate Valeria Hotel** also offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay, including a breakfast buffet that extends until noon, allowing you to sleep in and start your day at your own pace. A well-equipped gym provides opportunities for maintaining your fitness routine, while the comfortable lobby lounge offers a relaxing space to unwind and socialize.
## Palacio Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro: History, Luxury, and Unparalleled Views
As a distinguished member of Spain’s renowned *Paradores* collection, the **Palacio Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro** offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Nestled atop a hilltop and surrounded by the ancient Castillo de Gibralfaro, this historic site provides guests with an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s rich heritage while enjoying modern comforts and breathtaking views.
The pool at the **Palacio Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro** is a true oasis of relaxation, offering stunning perspectives from every angle. On one side, you’ll be captivated by the imposing presence of the castle, while on the other, you can gaze out over the sparkling expanse of the sea. A sun deck with comfortable lounge chairs invites you to bask in the warmth of the Mediterranean sun. The pool itself is generously sized, making it ideal for both leisurely swimming and invigorating exercise. You can also find respite beneath one of the charming grass umbrellas, sipping on a refreshing drink from the bar while cooling off and soaking up the incredible views.
Another aspect that sets this hotel apart is its preservation of historical elements, creating a truly authentic and immersive experience. Arched doorways, traditional red-tiled floors, and wood-beamed ceilings evoke a sense of timeless elegance and connect you to the region’s rich past. From the hotel, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city’s waterfront, the bustling marina, the charming **Old Town**, and the historic Alcazaba fortress. Furthermore, the hotel’s location allows for easy exploration of the Castillo de Gibralfaro itself, a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts. However, it’s important to note that reaching other sites within the city center, such as the iconic Cathedral, requires a 25-minute walk or a short drive.
The rooms at the **Palacio Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro** are surprisingly spacious for a historic building, providing guests with ample room to relax and unwind. Comfortable beds, traditional tiled floors, functional desks, and cozy seating areas create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. All rooms offer private balconies with chairs, allowing you to fully appreciate the incredible sea views or the vistas overlooking the Alcazaba. The hotel offers two room categories, standard and superior, with the superior option providing a bit more space and luxurious four-poster beds. While the bathrooms are large and functional, they could benefit from some updates to modernize their aesthetic.
In addition to the stunning views from the hotel rooms, guests can also enjoy these captivating vistas from the restaurant’s terrace, providing a delightful setting for al fresco dining. The restaurant also features an indoor dining room where you can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet, ensuring a convenient and satisfying start to your day. Other amenities include on-site parking, a chic bar for enjoying evening cocktails, and a few cozy lounges for relaxation and socializing.
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