Stayed the last 2 weeks in June at the Balmes. The hotel was very nice. Staff very friendly and helpful. The rooms were cleaned every day with clean towels daily. The food was ok with plenty to chose from but they didn't cater for children very well and the mealtimes were a nightmare because the hotel is mainly full of 16-18 year old german students who are very rude and just walk straight to the front when it is obvious there is a queue. 80% of the hotel is taken up by these students. They also thought the pool was theirs as well, with no regard for children or anyone wanting a nice swim. This was mainly a problem from the afternoon onwards! The location isn't too good either. One man in a previous review referred to the area as dog poo alley. He was right. It is a shame about this hotel, as it could be a lovely place if only they could do away with groups and accept couples or families only and it could also be in a better area.

hotel great found staff very friendly food was ok could have been more choice although they did serve fish fingers one night and my husband was delighted as one of his favourite meals. Entertainment was not great but we made the most of it and if your willing to put a bit of effort in and create some of the atmospher it helps a lot not too far from the main shopping area and in perfect location for the market hotel clean staff helpful i would definatly go back to this hotel

My friend and i stayed for a week. The food was good, plenty of choice and good selection of fruit available. Great as not too far from the beach ( beautiful beach) and shops. The staff were dead nice and helpful. The accomodation was good and very clean, Although we had a bit of noise due to be on 1st floor and by the courtyard area. Bar prices ok, and they make a cracking sangria, very strong!! The pool was very nice. It was more couples and familes so not ideal if you want a girls holiday. Go down the other end of town about 20 mins walk for english bars and liveliness. There is a great bar with palm trees outside that have happy hours on 9-11pm and they make mean strong cocktails. Barcelona only 1 hour on the train, and the train service is fantastic!! Well worth a visit, but watch your things as gets heaving around the streets and on the metro. Enjoy!! Gillian Brown - Newcastle Upon Tyne