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Summary of reviewsMacdonald Doña Lola Resort is renowned for its exceptional beachfront location with direct access to the beach and a scenic boardwalk, making it popular among beach lovers and walkers. Its strategic position between Málaga and Marbella enhances its convenience for exploring the Costa del Sol with access to nearby attractions, restaurants, shops and public transportation. The resort is praised for its well-maintained gardens, facilities and spacious, comfortable apartments, many offering stunning sea views. The layout and amenities cater well to families and those seeking a tranquil environment.
The cleaning standards at the resort are highly commendable, ensuring spotless apartments and public areas. The beautifully kept gardens and clean pool areas add to the pleasant atmosphere. The reception, housekeeping and restaurant staff are frequently highlighted for their friendliness and professionalism, contributing significantly to the positive guest experience.
The dining options at Macdonald Doña Lola Resort receive high praise, especially the pool bar and evening performances, adding a delightful touch to the stay. While breakfast offerings could be more inclusive and convenient, dinner experiences are generally very positive with numerous dining alternatives nearby.
The apartments are spacious and well-equipped, making them ideal for family vacations. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and functionality of the accommodations, although some units may benefit from updates. The resort features excellent swimming facilities with multiple heated pools, including child-friendly and adult-only areas. Despite minor issues with crowding around the pool and limited pool hours, the poolside amenities and safety measures are highly appreciated.
While the immediate beach area is rocky, making swimming less ideal, the well-maintained beachfront and proximity to picturesque beaches are noted positively. The resort’s vibrant nightlife options and on-site evening entertainment ensure there is always something enjoyable to do.
Overall, Macdonald Doña Lola Resort offers a relaxing and enjoyable holiday experience, notable for its prime location, excellent facilities, cleanliness and exceptional service from the staff. Its comprehensive range of amenities makes it a favored destination for a beachside holiday on the Costa del Sol. Show more
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Categories
Apartment with EV Charging Stations
Apartment near The Beach
Apartment near Nightlife Spots
Apartment with Swimming Pool
Heated Pool Indoor Pool Outdoor Pool
4-Star Apartment
Apartment with Outdoor Pool
Apartment with Indoor Pool
Apartment with Heated Pool
Room Types
Classic One-Bedroom ApartmentThese apartments feature an outside terrace area, one double bedroom, one bathroom and an kitchen with dining. Living area includes a sofa bed within the lounge.
Classic One-Bedroom Apartment with Sea View and TerraceThese spacious apartments offer a sea view and feature one double/twin bedroom, one bathroom and an open plan kitchen, dining and living area which also includes a sofa bed within the lounge. These apartments have a sea view.
Superior One-Bedroom Apartment with Sea View and TerraceThese superior sea view apartments feature an outside terrace area, two double bedrooms, one bathroom and an kitchen with dining. Living area includes a sofa bed within the lounge.
Classic Two-Bedroom Apartment with TerraceThese classic apartments feature an outside terrace area, two double bedrooms, one bathroom and an kitchen with dining. Living area includes a sofa bed within the lounge.
Classic Two-Bedroom Apartment with Sea View and terraceThese classic sea view apartments feature an outside terrace area, two double bedrooms, one bathroom and an kitchen with dining. Living area includes a sofa bed within the lounge.
Classic Extra Two-Bedroom Apartment with TerraceThese apartments feature an outside terrace area, two double bedrooms, two bathrooms and kitchen with dining. Living area includes a sofa bed within the lounge.
Superior Extra Two-Bedroom Apartment with Sea View and TerraceThese bright superior extra spacious apartments feature two double/twin bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, dining and living area which also includes a sofa bed within the lounge. These apartment have a sea view. These apartments have an outside terrace area.
Classic Three-Bedroom Apartment with TerraceThese classic apartments feature three double/twin bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, dining and living area which also includes a sofa bed within the lounge and an outdoor terrace area. Please note that the third bedroom is small and only suitable for children.
Guest Reviews
8.5
Very Good
Location
Macdonald Doña Lola Resort boasts an exceptional location that is frequently praised for its convenience and beauty. Situated right on the beachfront, the resort offers direct access to the beach and the scenic boardwalk, making it a top choice for beach lovers and walkers alike. Its proximity to various local attractions, restaurants and shops further enhances its appeal. The resort is strategically positioned between Málaga and Marbella, offering easy access to both cities as well as nearby Fuengirola, La Cala and Cabopino. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the Costa del Sol.
Guests frequently commend the resort for its well-maintained gardens and facilities, providing a clean and pleasant environment. The resort's layout includes spacious and comfortable apartments, many of which offer stunning sea views. The convenient access to public transportation, highways and nearby golf courses adds to the resort's accessibility. Its central location also ensures that everything from supermarkets to nightlife spots are just a short walk away.
Families find the resort particularly suitable due to its tranquil setting and family-friendly amenities. The presence of multiple restaurants and bars within and around the complex adds to the convenience, catering to various culinary preferences. While some reviews noted that the nearby main road can be busy and the beach is somewhat rocky in parts, the overall sentiment remains highly positive towards the resort's location and the vast range of activities available.
Overall, Macdonald Doña Lola Resort stands out for its prime beachfront location, accessibility and comprehensive range of facilities, making it a favored choice for a relaxing and enjoyable holiday on the Costa del Sol.
Breakfast
Macdonald Doña Lola Resort has left some guests with mixed feelings about its breakfast options. While some appreciated the excellent catering and the flexibility of well-equipped kitchen facilities to make their own meals, others noted the absence of a breakfast service on-site. The lack of an included breakfast and the need to visit local restaurants, which start serving from 10 a.m., was a downside for a few. Although the bed and breakfast basis suited some visitors, the focus on catering to foreign tourists was not to everyone’s liking. Overall, the resort's breakfast provisions could benefit from more inclusive options and convenience.
Dinner
The dining experience at Macdonald Doña Lola Resort garners high praise for its quality and variety. Guests enjoyed the excellent and delicious food available at the hotel restaurants with many highlighting the reasonably priced menu options and superb quality. The pool bar specifically received numerous compliments for its tasty offerings and reasonable prices. The resort also offers enjoyable theme evenings and live performances, adding a delightful touch to the dining experience.
Set in a charming location surrounded by the pool, the restaurant setting is appreciated for its ambiance, particularly during the evenings. While some guests felt the prices could be a bit high, the variety and quality of food were generally well-regarded. Additionally, the resort's convenient location near numerous restaurants just outside the complex provided guests with plenty of dining alternatives. Despite some minor critiques regarding breakfast hours and entertainment timings, the overall dining experience at Macdonald Doña Lola Resort is considered very good, contributing positively to guests' stays.
Rooms
Macdonald Doña Lola Resort offers guests spacious and well-equipped apartments, ideal for a peaceful family vacation. Many reviews highlight the generous size of the apartments with multiple mentions of three-bedroom units and accommodations that are large and airy, making them perfect for families, including grandparents, parents and children. Guests frequently noted that the apartments come with all necessary amenities for a comfortable stay, including fully equipped kitchens and comfortable beds.
The general cleanliness of the apartments is an appreciated feature with visitors describing them as immaculate and spotless. Despite some comments about the decor feeling outdated and certain units needing an update, the majority of guests found the accommodations to be very clean and functional. The spacious terraces and rooms with beautiful sea views further enhance the experience, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning beachfront location fully.
Guests also enjoyed the resort's well-maintained complex with beautiful gardens and excellent facilities, including pools and nearby boardwalks for seaside strolls. The resort's location between Marbella and Fuengirola, along with its inviting atmosphere, makes it a convenient and appealing choice for a beachside holiday.
While some reviews mentioned minor inconveniences, such as small balconies or occasional noise, the overall consensus is that Macdonald Doña Lola Resort provides good value for money and a relaxing environment. The helpful reception staff and the variety of amenities contribute to a pleasant and comfortable stay, ensuring most guests leave with positive impressions.
Beds
Nestled in a serene locale, Macdonald Doña Lola Resort has garnered a mix of feedback regarding its bedding conditions. On the bright side, many guests found the beds quite comfortable and the units themselves were described as comfortably furnished. Several positive mentions were made regarding the new beds and pillows and many guests appreciated the mattress firmness and the number of extra pillows provided, ensuring a snug and restful experience.
Cleanliness appears to be a priority at the resort with very clean and fresh beds frequently noted. The friendly and helpful staff further enhanced the overall comfort and satisfaction of the stay.
However, the comfort of the sofa beds was a common point of contention. Numerous mentions highlighted the sofa beds as being particularly uncomfortable with some guests describing them as hard or broken. There were also mixed reviews about the firmness of the beds; while some appreciated a firm mattress, others found the beds too hard, causing discomfort or back pain.
While the majority found the beds quite comfy, there were reports of beds being narrow and hard, particularly for Scandinavian guests. A few guests found their beds wobbly or old, detracting from their overall comfort. Issues with the firmness and condition of some mattresses, as well as hard and lumpy pillows, were also noted by several visitors.
In summary, Macdonald Doña Lola Resort offers generally comfortable bedding with an emphasis on cleanliness and friendly service, though it may not meet every guest's preference for mattress firmness and the comfort of sofa beds remains an area for improvement.
Cleanliness
Located in an impressive setting with picturesque gardens featuring beautiful flowers and palm trees, Macdonald Doña Lola Resort ensures a visually delightful stay with its impeccably maintained and clean grounds. Numerous reviews highlight the exceptional cleanliness throughout the complex, including spotless apartments, clean and well-maintained public areas and a pristine pool. The accommodations are not only super clean but also well-equipped, offering all necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
Guests appreciated the immaculate housekeeping and attention to detail with an emphasis on the cleanliness of baths, rooms and supportive facilities. The resort also shines in terms of communal spaces, which are kept tidy and inviting, contributing to an overall pleasant ambiance. Even the towels received a special mention for their fluffy, spotless quality.
However, a few reviews pointed out inconsistencies, particularly mentioning that some apartments were not cleaned as frequently as expected during their stay. Despite these occasional lapses, the general sentiment remains positive, praising the thorough and consistent cleanliness efforts by the resort’s staff.
In summary, the Macdonald Doña Lola Resort is highly regarded for its clean and well-maintained environment, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable experience for its guests.
Staff
The staff at Macdonald Doña Lola Resort are consistently praised for their friendliness, professionalism and exceptional service. Guests frequently highlight the helpful and attentive nature of the reception staff, who are lauded for their efficiency and willingness to assist with any request, from booking tickets to providing guidance. The pool staff, cleaning staff and restaurant waiters also receive commendations for their friendly and cheerful demeanor.
Several reviewers make special mention of particular staff members, such as Diego and Sergio, who go above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcome and attended to. The kindness and pleasant service of the entire team, including the spa and gym staff, contribute significantly to the overall positive experience at the resort.
Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere created by the staff, who are always ready to help and provide superb service. The consistent kindness, attentiveness and professionalism of the staff make a notable impact, leaving visitors completely satisfied with their stay.
Wi-Fi
The WiFi experience at Macdonald Doña Lola Resort receives mixed feedback. Several guests praise the connection, describing it as good, excellent and perfectly working in certain areas. The internet is noted as sufficient for basic use and complimentary access is sometimes mentioned. However, there are issues with WiFi access around the pool and restaurant, where it either does not work or functions poorly. Additionally, while some guests found the WiFi to be free, others mentioned the necessity of paying for it. The reliability of the connection appears variable with instances of the internet turning off occasionally.
Pool
The Macdonald Doña Lola Resort boasts an impressive array of swimming facilities that are highly praised by its guests. The resort features a selection of pools, including three heated pools, an outdoor heated pool, an indoor heated pool and a child-friendly pool. Families and adults alike appreciate the variety with specific areas designated for adults ensuring a peaceful retreat. The expansive outdoor pools are particularly highlighted for their cleanliness and beautiful views of the sea. The pool areas are well-maintained with lifeguards on duty all day, ensuring safety for all guests.
Numerous sun loungers are available, although some guests mention that the space around the pool areas can feel narrow and crowded at times. The heated pools are especially popular, offering a comfortable swim even in low season. The resort also includes a small indoor pool and an impressive children's pool, making it a great destination for families.
The poolside amenities are diverse with a small café and a poolside restaurant receiving high marks from visitors. While the pools are a significant highlight, the closing time at 7 p.m. and the limited time slots for pool use were noted as drawbacks. Despite this, the overall experience at the pool area is described as lovely and well-organized with various activities and facilities catering to both relaxation and family fun.
Beach
The Macdonald Doña Lola Resort boasts a prime location with direct access to the beach, making it easy for guests to enjoy the seaside. The beach is just a few meters away, providing a convenient opportunity for scenic walks along a picturesque 6-km boardwalk. The beachfront area is well-maintained with clean facilities and frequent cleaning. Guests can also appreciate a private beach area exclusively maintained by the hotel staff, complete with amenities and lifeguards on duty, ensuring a family-friendly and safe environment.
However, the beach directly in front of the hotel is predominantly rocky and stony, which can make swimming challenging and less enjoyable. Many guests find the nearby beach better suited for swimming after a short walk or drive. There are also mentions of algae and seaweed, which detract from the beach's overall appeal.
Dining options and a vibrant beach life are readily available with several excellent beachfront dining spots to choose from. For those looking to venture further, the surrounding coastline features many other beautiful and picturesque beaches that are ideal for swimming and less rocky.
In conclusion, while the Macdonald Doña Lola Resort excels in offering convenient and direct access to the beach along with well-maintained facilities, the immediate beach area may not be ideal for those seeking a traditional sandy beach experience. Exploring nearby beaches is recommended for those looking for better swimming conditions.
Nightlife
The nightlife around Macdonald Doña Lola Resort offers a vibrant and varied experience for guests. With its evening entertainment, live music events and karaoke nights in nearby restaurants, there is always something to do when the sun goes down. The resort is conveniently located near numerous nightlife spots, including bars, pubs and nightclubs within walking distance and lounges featuring DJ nights and dance floors.
For those who enjoy a more relaxed evening, the boardwalk is perfect for late-night walks, while various restaurants and cafes offer nighttime activities. The on-site evening entertainment options, including themed dining and animation events, ensure guests have plenty of choices without leaving the resort.
Additionally, the bus route provides easy access to nearby Marbella and Fuengirola, opening up even more nightlife options. Guests can enjoy a great poolside bar, "La Plaza" and various on-site bars and restaurants offering a wonderful selection for dining and evening fun.
Despite some feedback about limited nightlife and occasional issues with reservations at the poolside restaurant during evening entertainment, the overall experience around the resort is positive with a fabulous choice of nearby restaurants and bars, ensuring a lively atmosphere for visitors.
Outdoor Pool
The Macdonald Doña Lola Resort boasts wonderful outdoor pool facilities that are a highlight for many guests. The resort features two outdoor pools, including a popular heated pool, making swimming enjoyable even on cooler days. This heated pool, however, is reserved for adults and closes at 6 or 7 PM. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and well-maintained condition of the pools, as well as the beautiful gardens and mountain views that surround the area.
The large outdoor pool areas are particularly praised for their child-friendly zones, complete with shaded family sun loungers and lifeguard service, ensuring safety for all. Families especially enjoy the spacious and clean pools with dedicated kids’ swimming areas that allow older children to swim independently.
Though the pools can become crowded with every chair occupied, the overall experience remains positive thanks to the relaxing atmosphere and well-kept surroundings. The resort's heated outdoor pool is consistently noted as a perfect addition, especially on colder days, creating a comfortable and inviting space for adults to unwind.
With strategic and well-organized facilities, the Macdonald Doña Lola Resort ensures a pleasurable poolside experience for both families and adult guests alike.
Indoor Pool
The indoor pool at Macdonald Doña Lola Resort has garnered positive feedback from guests, who appreciate its pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. The heated indoor pool, accessible year-round, even in colder months such as December, stands out as a favorite, especially for evening swims. Guests find the stable indoor climate ideal for families, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather.
The pool area is complemented by additional amenities, including a sauna, steam room and hot tub, which contribute to a comprehensive relaxation experience. The indoor pool facilities are praised for their warmth and inviting nature, making them a great retreat on cooler days.
While the spa and gym enhance the overall wellness offerings, some mentioned stricter entry rules and limited availability during the pandemic, indicating a focus on safety and hygiene. The children's pool, however, could benefit from heating to match the comfort provided by the main indoor pool.
Overall, the indoor pool facilities at Macdonald Doña Lola Resort are well-regarded, offering a warm, relaxing retreat with high-quality amenities that cater to a variety of preferences.
Luxury
Nestled in an ideal location that makes it perfect for exploring, the Macdonald Doña Lola Resort sets a high standard for luxury and comfort. The resort is characterized by its sophisticated and stylish decor both in the apartments and throughout public spaces, ensuring every corner reflects the commitment to luxury. Guests consistently highlight the superb facilities, including a well-maintained gym and a steam room that add to the overall luxurious experience.
The rooms and apartments echo a recent refurbishment, showcasing a modern, luxurious feel with ample in-room amenities and amazing views. Visitors appreciate the clean, comfortable and spacious accommodations with many noting the excellent maintenance and cleanliness of both the rooms and the surrounding resort.
Carefully tended gardens and extensive terraces with loungers and dining furniture enhance the relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for guests looking for a serene getaway. The staff also receive high praise for their friendliness and welcoming demeanor, contributing positively to the luxurious ambiance.
While some guests noted that parts of the structure feel slightly dated, the overall luxurious and well-equipped nature of the resort remains a standout feature. Whether it's the superb range of amenities, the luxury comfort of the rooms or the high standards maintained throughout, the Macdonald Doña Lola Resort offers a luxurious retreat that leaves a lasting impression with only minor critiques on the age of its structure.
Yes, Macdonald Doña Lola Resort has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Indoor Pool, Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Macdonald Doña Lola Resort.
No, Macdonald Doña Lola Resort doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Macdonald Doña Lola Resort.
No, Macdonald Doña Lola Resort doesn't have a gym.