Tuesday 31 July 2007

Hotel La Coma, Setcases, Catalonia


Modern, but attractive and solidly-built, hotel blanketed with hanging baskets of flowers and offering fine views of the mountains surrounding Setcases. Popular with the elderly and young families. Tasteful and understated rooms are kitted out with very solid wooden furniture and many have balconies overlooking the small car park, the large children's play area, outdoor pool and the forested slopes further down the valley. But you may need to remove the plastic waterproof mattress covers to get a good night's sleep. Half board is great value at 54 euros per person. It includes a buffet breakfast, which you can have on a sun-drenched terrace, featuring a wide variety of tasty cold meats and cheeses, and simple three-course dinners, generous and competently prepared. One of the best starters is anchovies, roasted peppers and aubergine on toast, while main course highlights include a flavoursome veal and mushroom stew and a succulent shoulder of lamb. Staff are fairly friendly and the hotel is well-placed for some lovely riverside walks. 8/10