Reviewed by
Clemmy Manzo
It’s impossible to talk about Cap Sa Sal without first delving into its illustrious past. Carved into a cliff in a quiet corner of the Costa Brava, the original crescent-shaped building was a glamorous hotel built in the 50s and frequented by Hollywood heartthrobs during the summers of the 60s - Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson and Princess Grace all holidayed here. It’s also one of few boutique hotels with a claim to British espionage fame: the 1969 spy spoof Some Girls Do was filmed here.
Framed by swaying palm trees and craggy mountains, Cap Sa Sal now spreads across 3 separate buildings, all facing the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. The original structure has been converted into apartments, most of them privately owned, though happily 6 of the flagships (featured here) are available as stunning holiday rentals. Spacious and design-led, they exude creative flair; each is completely different, all but one work for families. Down among the pines, there's also a secluded villa for up to 12 (see below), and a modern adults-only hotel (see our separate review). While much has changed since Cap Sa Sal’s Hollywood heyday, some things have not: the secluded location backed by a forest of sloping pines continues to attract guests in search of tranquillity and nature-rich landscapes. Yet it's just a 5-minute drive to the medieval hilltop town of Begur, where the cobblestoned streets are lined with eateries and overlooked by a fairytale castle.
Framed by swaying palm trees and craggy mountains, Cap Sa Sal now spreads across 3 separate buildings, all facing the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. The original structure has been converted into apartments, most of them privately owned, though happily 6 of the flagships (featured here) are available as stunning holiday rentals. Spacious and design-led, they exude creative flair; each is completely different, all but one work for families. Down among the pines, there's also a secluded villa for up to 12 (see below), and a modern adults-only hotel (see our separate review). While much has changed since Cap Sa Sal’s Hollywood heyday, some things have not: the secluded location backed by a forest of sloping pines continues to attract guests in search of tranquillity and nature-rich landscapes. Yet it's just a 5-minute drive to the medieval hilltop town of Begur, where the cobblestoned streets are lined with eateries and overlooked by a fairytale castle.
Highs
- Breathtaking sea views from all accommodation and the stunning pool, which is ingeniously set into the rocks
- An excellent on-site restaurant, with Mediterranean-inspired food
- Super-chic decor, especially in penthouse Privado, romantic Apartment 210, and the private villa, which has its own pool
- Electric bikes to hire; perfect for exploring the beautiful Costa Brava
- The communal areas of the original hotel are time capsules from the 50s and wonderfully atmospheric; there's a grand piano in one, and a secret tunnel to the beach!
Lows
- Note that a security deposit will be held against your card on arrival
- No supermarket within walking distance; the nearest is a 5-minute drive away (you'll need a car here but parking is included in the rates)
- The lovely open-plan kitchens could do with a few basic ingredients and more cooking utensils
- The beach is rocky though great for diving off and swimming/snorkelling
- The main lobby area, though impressive, feels a bit neglected