To me, the Melia brand brings to mind beach vibes, clean lines, big spaces and blurring indoors with the outdoors — and its Alicante offering is no different. In a Spanish resort town that’s awash with big-brand and high-rise hotels, clubs and plenty of tourists all year round, the Melia Alicante is an ocean-front sprinkle of calm.
Melia’s signature is lots of white, understated luxury and a classy club feel and one of the things it does best is creating outdoor spaces that seem to blend in with the sea. After spending a few days on the coast in Valencia – which has its own charm but the beaches are right by a busy port – the waters we overlooked from our balcony were crystalline in comparison. Alicante has a bit of a reputation as a “Brits abroad” package destination but over at Melia, it feels exclusive and private but without any pretension.
It smells heavenly, too. I was lucky enough to stay at its Sol House in Ibiza a few years back and the fragrance that infused the hotel brought back some terrific, if hazy memories from that time.
The hotel was quiet – expected due to the time of year and the obvious travel restrictions COVID has brought but all the staff were on top form. You could sense their sadness that their lovely hotel wasn’t shining as bright as it could due to various rules in place but the potential is enormous. Next year will be a belter.
What also stood out were the views. The hotel is right on the beachfront and next to Alicante Marina and the full-length windows from the breakfast room made you feel like you were floating.
The infinity pool is also sea-facing – you’re mere feet from the ocean – and the space is all unfussy lines and sharp angles. Perfect for a good book, a cold Cava and some excellent people-watching on the promenade below.
My junior suite had a brilliant addition – two bathrooms. A his and hers (or whatever your combo) place to get ready is a rare treat indeed. Lots of white (of course) linen and a huge balcony made it ideal – and again, the views of the sea, beach, castle and beyond were fabulous.
The hotel’s restaurant, Trasluz, on the ground floor, was a treat. I’d recommend doing what I did and allow the chef to choose. Jamon and squid ink croquettes, steak tartare, a fillet steak (he did ask if I was a carnivore) and a lovely bottle of Spanish rose later (for two) and I was delighted.
Breakfast was also delicious – a fine spread of classic Spanish fare including Iberico ham, cheeses, pan con tomate, fruit, omelettes and granola. You will not leave hungry.
Melia Alicante has a special area called The Level – its premium room options with access to a private infinity pool, solarium, breakfast and dining area and complimentary canapes and refreshers. This part is currently closed but will reopen next year and I’d definitely recommend it for a special treat.
As a side note, my husband and I had our phones and bag stolen from the beach (completely off property) during our stay and the hotel went above and beyond to help. They called the police, printed our boarding passes, let us use their phones and even left a gorgeous platter of fruit in our room. Splendid service – in the unlikely event you run into any difficulty, they’re there to help.
The clement climate of Alicante makes it a firm year-round favourite so next time you’re town, be sure to make the Melia a must.
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