Gisele Souza
We had a wonderful weekend at Zel while visiting during the Gran Fondo Costa Brava. The region is fantastic for cycling enthusiasts, and the hotel caters well to this crowd, offering a bike room for an additional fee.
The hotel provides a “phygital” experience, meaning a seamless blend of physical and digital services. I arrived 3 hours before the official check-in time and was comfortably accommodated in the lounge area, where I was offered water. The team explained that I could complete the check-in process online by scanning a QR code. Once completed, I received keys to access gym/pool and was invited to use the gym while waiting. They also offered the option to add dinner to my reservation. When my room was ready—45 minutes earlier than expected—I received an email notification and went to the lounge to collect the room key.
The resort is set on a cliffside, which means there are many stairs. It’s clearly designed for guests with an active lifestyle, offering a wide range of sports and physical activities. Reaching the accommodation can feel like a daily hike, but on a few occasions we requested a golf cart, which arrived quickly and was very convenient.
The hotel embraces a “laid-back luxury” concept, with interiors full of natural elements and a colour palette that reflects the Mediterranean lifestyle. The Junior Suite (most with sea views) is spacious, bright, and well-equipped, featuring a record player, bathrobes, towels, and a full set of bathroom amenities. The bed and pillows are soft yet very comfortable—we loved it.
The reception staff were very attentive and welcoming. However, we didn’t have the same level of service at the spa and restaurant. While the service there wasn’t unpleasant, it lacked courtesy and consistency.
Highlights:
The phygital experience (self check-in, digital check-out, digital menus, etc.) is very convenient and modern.
Downsides:
Communication via email was virtually nonexistent.
Be prepared to pay for several extras (bike room, parking, spa, tennis, etc.) to fully enjoy the experience. While this approach likely helps manage capacity—especially with 214 rooms—it would be helpful if these costs were clearly communicated at check-in or included in an in-room guest information guide.
Areas for improvement:
Provide more information about the surrounding area and restaurant options.
Offer a concierge service (even at an additional cost) to assist with bookings and trip planning.
Lamis Dagriri
My experience with Zel Costa Brava was truly exceptional, not just in terms of the property itself, but in the level of care and understanding their team showed during a very difficult time.
Due to the situation in the Middle East, I had to cancel my trip unexpectedly. I was quite stressed about the circumstances, but the hotel staff handled everything with remarkable compassion and professionalism. They were incredibly considerate, understanding, and accommodating throughout the process, which made a huge difference for me.
Although I wasn’t able to complete my stay, this level of customer service speaks volumes about the hotel’s values and how they treat their guests. It gave me a strong sense of trust and appreciation, and I would absolutely book with them even for extra nights once this war unfolds
Highly recommended, not only for their beautiful location but for their humanity and integrity
Gizem Ertem
Lovely hotel and a big plus that it is dog-friendly. The accommodation was comfortable, clean, and well maintained. Overall, we had a pleasant stay. The only downside was the lack of services, particularly the absence of room services.
Dimitrios Gkotsoulias
Amazing luxury resort and location, in one of the most beautiful parts of Costa Brava.
Room: 5* (sea view with kitchen)
Location:5*
Service:5*, excellent staff.
Breakfast:5* (also gluten-free friendly)
Dinner (buffet) was decent and with many options (also gluten-free options).
Golf cars to help around the guests with luggage and instructions.
Atmosphere was luxurious but cosy at the same time, decor was classic with modern notes -excellent match to the surrounding nature. Free protected parking and paid parking in front of the entrance available.
Only issue: the check-in process was kinda unorganised and lengthy. I had to manually put details on a Tablet myself.. this makes no sense for a hotel with such service, there must be another way or a dedicated employee.
Recommended and will totally visit again!
gülşah güzel
Everything was perfect in every way. Everyone at the hotel was friendly and welcoming, and there were so many food options available. The access to the sea, the abundance of sunbeds, and the natural setting of the resort were truly wonderful. We came to celebrate my husband’s birthday, and they even prepared a small surprise for us, which was a lovely touch. We had an amazing holiday and would highly recommend this place to everyone.
