Reviewed by
Clemmy Manzo
Sustainable design meets barefoot luxury at this adults-only boutique hideaway in the Costa Brava. Once the humble servants' quarter for the glamorous resort next door, this stone-walled bolthole has been stylishly renovated to house 10 romantic rooms that overlook the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. In each room, refurbished furniture and recycled bathroom doors earn the hotel some green points; while clever use of space maximises those stunning sea views (even the open-plan sinks face the sea). Most rooms (8 out of 10) have ocean-facing terraces, perfect for evening aperitifs before heading to the hotel’s glass-walled restaurant.
Tucked away on a cliff-side and hidden behind a forest of pines, Cap Sa Sal feels alluringly secluded. Adding to its enigmatic appeal, a secret tunnel (accessed from the next door resort) leads to a swimming pool set into the rocks. There’s a smaller outdoor Jacuzzi pool too, as well as private beach access and pretty little inlets dotted nearby. The beautiful hilltop town of Begur, with its medieval castle and charming restaurants, is just a 5-minute drive. Perfect for a romantic escape by the sea, or a tranquil break from the kids.
Tucked away on a cliff-side and hidden behind a forest of pines, Cap Sa Sal feels alluringly secluded. Adding to its enigmatic appeal, a secret tunnel (accessed from the next door resort) leads to a swimming pool set into the rocks. There’s a smaller outdoor Jacuzzi pool too, as well as private beach access and pretty little inlets dotted nearby. The beautiful hilltop town of Begur, with its medieval castle and charming restaurants, is just a 5-minute drive. Perfect for a romantic escape by the sea, or a tranquil break from the kids.
Highs
- Unbeatable sea views from every room, plus 8 out of 10 rooms have ocean-facing terraces
- An excellent on-site restaurant serving fresh locally-sourced fish - be sure to book ahead as it's very popular
- Beautiful beaches (some of them rocky) are dotted around the region, plus guests have private beach access
- Access to next door’s pool set into the rocks, as well as an open-air Jacuzzi pool, though there's no bar there
- The charming hilltop town of Begur is a 5-minute drive away
Lows
- We suggest you avoid July-August: prices soar (you're paying a premium for this unique location) - and in addition...
- In summer, the restaurant gets booked up weeks ahead (and there are no alternatives nearby), so reserve your table when booking
- In summer, service can be slow, but recent reports are much better
- In summer, expect some sounds from the pool bar, and from neighbouring terraces (thin bamboo partitions only)
- The entry level rooms are on the small side (bathrooms too), so book one with a terrace - or splash out on the suite
Best time to go
If it's tranquility you’re after, avoid the peak summer months of July and August. May, early June and September are perfect times as it’s still warm enough to swim in the Med (you might even get the beach all to yourself on weekdays).
Our top tips
At the risk of repeating ourselves, we strongly recommend coming in May, June, September or early October. In the peak summer months, prices soar, restaurant tables are at a premium, and the pool terrace loses its pine-whispered tranquillity.