La Zambra Resort, Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Had a wonderful stay to celebrate our 25th anniversary. Room amazing worth the upgrade, really big and free access to the Spa. No drama with sun beds , no dashing down for breakfast just relaxing and calm. It’s far from mid range and the tab was eye watering but I’m sure this is why you get the space and environment to make your break so special. Read between the lines with this it’s not all inclusive 😊

We spent four nights at La Zambra in Marbella, Spain at the end of October. On arrival we were upgraded to a junior suite which was wonderful for the two of us. The staff here is helpful in every way. The breakfast buffet was fabulous and could also be supplemented by ordering off a limited menu. Breakfast is free for everyone. The spa is very special. I went to a very nice yoga class on three mornings and we used the spa facilities several days. There are three pools, including one adult one. There are plenty of lounge chairs and we were able to easily have one at different times of the day. It was quite warm while we were there and the cool pools were very refreshing. The concierge suggested a walk from the hotel for me which involved taking two left turns out of the hotel property which goes up and down some great hills and by beautiful villas. On one evening we walked to Zia Lola which is an Italian restaurant that was suberb. It was a 13 minute walk up other hills. We rented a car which was dropped off and picked up by agency arranged by concierge for day trip to Ronda. The four nights there were not enough for me and probably one night too long for my husband.

Absolutely beautiful hotel in stunning grounds with one of the nicest pools I've been in. Service is mostly fantastic - huge thanks to Jesus at Bartola at the pool for his service and food recommendations. The room was lovely, bigger than expected, nice balcony and always clean. All the staff we spoke to at Reception were really friendly and helpful.

La Zambra is one of the most beautiful hotels I've stayed in. The architecture, gardens and pools are stunning, the rooms are spacious and spotless, and the atmosphere is peaceful while still being family friendly. Travelling with a toddler isn't always easy, but the staff genuinely made us feel welcome. Every interaction was warm, professional and thoughtful. One of the highlights of our stay was the Kids Club. The crèche team was exceptional, caring, attentive and clearly experienced with young children. They made our daughter feel comfortable from the very beginning, giving us peace of mind and allowing us to properly relax. They are a real credit to the hotel. The breakfast was excellent with plenty of fresh options, and the concierge and guest relations team were always happy to help. The hotel is also in a great location for exploring the Costa del Sol. There were, however, a few disappointments that stopped this from being a perfect five-star experience. During our stay, a raw chicken nugget was served with my child's meal. The staff replaced it immediately I have to say.

This is not a 5* experience. The room was clearly refurbished to the minimum expected. But net curtains as a door to a 1980s shower room and cheap finishes don’t make for luxury. The hallway carpet was stained. The staff were running on minimum and it all just seemed strained. The gardens are nice but no more than nice. And the whole place just felt suburban rather than luxurious. We stayed early July and it was empty It’s basically an old hotel in the middle of a residential golf complex refurbished to sell.