Holiday Reviews
We invite every traveller who books a holiday via us to send in a review. Because we don't run the holidays they're completely independent and unedited... remember to read between the lines though, as two people on the same trip can have different views!
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Alicante holiday accommodation, Spain, independent reviews
 Reviewed 1 Jul 2008 by Catherine Ross |  |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole package - the accommodation is a really relaxing, well organised, beautifully appointed family home where everyone feels like a special guest. The views from the house are stunning and the surrounding countryside is beautiful. The welcome received from Sarah and Johnny is so wonderful and reassuring when a family has been on a long, tiring journey to get there. Their ongoing enthusiasm and obvious enjoyment of what they do is a real delight. Would love to return.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Travel light! You don't need to worry too much about toys/books etc as they are provided and you really don't need to take many clothes as you'll live in a swimsuit!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely-every effort is made to use produce from local sources and whilst this benefits local people the knock on effect for guests means that meals provided are really fresh and delicious. Additionally, recycling is encouraged and made very simple to do. Clearly any staff that the house uses are friendly locals who seem committed to the values of the family.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A perfect holiday for families with young children. Anyone who is concerned about going abroad with small children need have no concerns about visiting this property. You feel as if you are staying with very capable friends who are on hand to answer any question or concern that you may have. Every thought has gone into what a young family may need from providing appropriate toys and books for their ages, travel cots and high chairs, a welcome box of produce with all their fave food, hand blender for baby food mooshing, perfectly appropriate kids teas and fabulous dinners and wine for the grown ups. Not forgetting great play equipment, goats (a big hit with our children!) and a really refreshing swimming pool. We would love to return and would recommend unreservedly.
| Reviewed 7 May 2007 by Wayne Hill | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The best part of our holiday, and therefore the most memorable thing, is the welcome we received from Sarah and Johnny Robinson at this accommodation.
The accommodation was so completely perfect for a family with young children. The Robinsons have young children themselves, and staying at their guest house felt more like being a family friend than a hotel customer.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't be shy; if you need anything at all while you are staying with the Robinsons, just ask! They had supplies for beach trips, a backpack for carrying our toddler on a hike, a baby monitor for when it was naptime, as a few examples. I borrowed her son's toy cars, her shawl one chilly evening, and the list could go on. They are just so committed to making you comfortable during your stay.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. Power is by generator and solar power of their own production, and it helps to bear this in mind and try to minimize your own usage.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I would definitely give it 5 stars. The scenery was absolutely beautiful. The decision to stay at this accommodation, instead of at a beachside hotel, was the best decision we could have made. It's an easy (and breathtaking!) 30 minute drive to the beach, so you can have as much beach time as you want. But instead of being stuck in the developed and tourist-y towns, at the end of the day you are relaxing in a beautiful, secluded, peaceful place in the middle of 'real' Spain. We recommend a holiday at this accommodation to anyone who likes to stay off the beaten path--especially families with infants, toddlers, and/or school age children. After all, its much easier to stay off that beaten path when your kids are happy!
| Reviewed 14 Apr 2007 by Lyndsey Woraker | |
We had a wonderful holiday with Sarah & Johnny at this accommodation, despite terrible weather!
Location of villa, warm welcome from hosts and wonderful experience that children had on their first holiday abroad.
Don't miss the Sunday lunch - great paella cooked for all guests by Sarah
Yes all produce was bought locally and hosts obviously had a very good relationship with the locals.
***** Whole family loved holiday. Rate it 11 out of 10 as exceeded all expectations and we have booked to go back next year!
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Location of villa, warm welcome from hosts and wonderful experience that children had on their first holiday abroad.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't miss the Sunday lunch - great paella cooked for all guests by Sarah
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes all produce was bought locally and hosts obviously had a very good relationship with the locals.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
***** Whole family loved holiday. Rate it 11 out of 10 as exceeded all expectations and we have booked to go back next year!
| Reviewed 23 Aug 2006 by Sue Jones | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Sarah and Johnny are most generous and hospitable hosts and we couldn't have felt more welcome. They are particularly well informed about the area, where to go and what to see. We loved to sit and watch the evening glow disappear from the sky and then see the lights twinkle in the distant hillside villages, whilst enjoying a glass of local wine. So peaceful and away from it all.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
This is a fantastic place - wish it had been there when our children were small. It surely must be the most hassle and stress free holiday ever. Use the baby listening service, and just relax. There are beaches around but I guess you won't want to venture far. This has it all.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely. Johnny and Sarah will direct you where to purchase all the local produce as indeed they do themselves and they are committed to everything environmentally friendly.
4. Any other comments?
Absolutely idyllic! (we have stayed here 3 times - that must say something!).
| Reviewed 12 Aug 2006 by Sarah Baker | |
We went to this accommodation, in the beautiful Jalon Valley, south of Valencia. I never knew such places existed so close to beaches of the Costa Blanca.
The house, the views, the countryside, the fabulous welcome, great food, entertaining and interesting company, we just were not expecting so much and it was truly fabulous, like a hotel but more like a home, guests relaxing together, enjoying great food and plenty of local vino, just like it says in the video!
If you can book the Fernando suite, all the beds are lovely and the linen is gorgeous, but Fernando is the most spectacular, just not what you expect!
The house runs on solar power and takes careful management, the water is all recycled and of course recycle bins for glass and cartons etc are available. The village of Jalon has a lot of offer and I went with Johnny to the market and the shops, they all know the house and the owners, and its very clear that there is a fabulous relationship between suppliers and local shop keepers and the kitchens at this accommodation!
***** I am reborn! Simply the best holiday I have ever been on. We just loved being there, its a very relaxing place to be, the rooms are fabulous and everyone else was having such a lovely time its impossible not to be scooped up in it. Great for walkers, for families or just for a weekend away and a glass of wine!
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The house, the views, the countryside, the fabulous welcome, great food, entertaining and interesting company, we just were not expecting so much and it was truly fabulous, like a hotel but more like a home, guests relaxing together, enjoying great food and plenty of local vino, just like it says in the video!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you can book the Fernando suite, all the beds are lovely and the linen is gorgeous, but Fernando is the most spectacular, just not what you expect!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The house runs on solar power and takes careful management, the water is all recycled and of course recycle bins for glass and cartons etc are available. The village of Jalon has a lot of offer and I went with Johnny to the market and the shops, they all know the house and the owners, and its very clear that there is a fabulous relationship between suppliers and local shop keepers and the kitchens at this accommodation!
4. Any other comments?
***** I am reborn! Simply the best holiday I have ever been on. We just loved being there, its a very relaxing place to be, the rooms are fabulous and everyone else was having such a lovely time its impossible not to be scooped up in it. Great for walkers, for families or just for a weekend away and a glass of wine!
| Reviewed 20 Oct 2009 by Shelley Shenkman | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Fantastic first trip overseas with our six month old daughter who loved her stay in the mountains. The villa was really geared up for babies, and we had everything we needed to ensure that she was settled on her first visit away from home. Sarah is a fantastic cook (try the Sunday Paella and ask for her Tortilla) and host and does her best to ensure that you have everything you need for your family. There is lots for toddlers to do, and for smaller babies to see - the animals, sandpits, pool (a bit chilly in October for our little one), trampoline, climbing frame and swings. Plus lots of walkers/baby gyms and toys to keep them entertained. Sarah will also arrange a pre-arrival shop, so that you have all the nappies etc that you need on arrival.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Choice of baby food in the local supermarket is limited, and I would have taken more pouches for our little one who is still on first stage weaning, as did not want to spend time cooking fresh veggies each day - after this Sarah's children’s teas would suit all tastes, and are great event for the little ones to socialise. We also took the cold water steriliser bags which worked out really well for bottles and bits. If unsure about driving in Europe, hire an automatic car, as there was a lot of gear crunching, and hairy moments when we first got on the motorway... Make sure that you sample some of Sarah's scrummy cooking, which she will deliver to your apartment once your baby has gone down for the night. No dressing for dinner required.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Locally sourced food to help the local economy, recycling and solar power to minimise impact on the environment.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fabulous, feel really relaxed after the trip and ready to venture further a field for our next one.
| Reviewed 21 Oct 2008 by Briana Palmer | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Enjoying a meal while knowing that our little one was asleep just below us.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Follow the directions in the welcome pack, don't rely on a GPS! Don't try and do too much - enjoy the house and surroundings for a couple of days, there are some great walks locally.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - solar power, local produce, local shopping.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A great family holiday.
| Reviewed 7 Aug 2008 by Angela Taylor | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Meeting like minded guests and relaxing around the pool chatting, dozing, waiting for the call to the next delicious meal! How do Sarah and Johny keep those cream coloured sofas so clean?!!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared to travel a little further to find the best beaches. We found a great beach a little way away which the children loved.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The food for the meals was sourced locally. Waste water was recycled and solar panels provided the energy source.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent, one of the most enjoyable family holidays that we have had for some years.
| Reviewed 16 Oct 2007 by Alison Horsburgh | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing the delight on my 16 month old son's face when we went to the beach in Moraira for the first time.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Enjoy and relax.... you can't help yourself. Have as much of Sarah's cooking as you can, it's wonderful - she is a culinary master (and the drinks aren't bad either!!!)
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes definitely!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent, really couldn't fault it!
| Reviewed 18 Aug 2007 by Emma Barnett | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The sheer pleasure of hanging out with everyone on the terrace, day and evening, whilst the children went "exploring" or played in the pool. A really, relaxing holiday with fabulous accommodation and wonderful views.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Cooking facilities are limited for a family, so eating out or at the hotel is a must most days.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, definitely.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A real treat for families who want a bit of time to unwind without any frills but stylish accommodation.
| Reviewed 12 Aug 2007 by Claire Mitchell | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The warm welcome we received on arrival which set the tone for the rest of the holiday. Our children's needs were extremely well-provided for as were our own. We enjoyed the sociable meals with the owners and other guests, taking in the views across the Jalon valley and being able to relax. The accommodation is a great place to enjoy a glass or two of Rioja.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't be afraid to go further afield if busy beaches are not your scene. Make use of Sarah and Johnny's local knowledge and do try the local butchers and bakers.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Extremely enjoyable in quality accommodation. The Robinsons are great hosts and make it very easy for parents and their children to have a good time
| Reviewed 1 Jul 2007 by Sarah Williams | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The fun meals we had as a group and also the delicious meals that were cooked for us on the terrace outside our apartment which meant no cooking for us (Although there are the facilities). We were able to put our daughter down to sleep and have the monitor on as the terrace is right outside the door so we had a romantic meal which we are never able to do!!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Research the flight times we flew to Valencia as better flight times for us although Alicante is slightly closer.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The Villa is set in the mountains and uses only recycled water and solar powered/ generated electricity. All rubbish is recycled where possible so having minimum impact on the environment.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
The holiday was excellent we intend to go back next year when our daughter is a bit older. The Villa is situated in a perfect location far enough away from the hustle and bustle but close enough for day trips... yes we even went to Benidorm for the day but only to the fantastic Zoo they had!
Travelling was no hassle with a 7 month old baby, Sarah and Johnny provided a play matt, high chair, cot, toys and a blender and were on hand to help with anything at all times.
| Reviewed 25 May 2007 by Emma Osborne | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The view over the Jalon Valley in the morning, from the terrace, and taking our baby to the beach for the very first time.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Ask for maps of Jalon, and the local area - they are hand prepared and excellent.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, as we shopped at Jalon market, and supermarkets, and bought local produce from the co-operative.
| Reviewed 12 May 2007 by Rosalind Wynne | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The spectacular views from the property down the valley - on a clear day you can see the sea. It was early May & there was a profusion of wild flowers on the hillsides & olive terraces. The other exciting part of the holiday for parents with small children is that Sarah did special communal children's teas at 6ish & then we could have dinner brought to us on our own terrace after the children were in bed. Sarah also did a communal paella on a Sunday afternoon which was good fun & social both for parents & children.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The beach is about 30 minutes from the house but this didn't matter to us, as nice being in a quieter hillside location, & it does have its own pool. This would probably a particular advantage in the higher season when I expect the coastal resorts would be heaving.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Sarah used local suppliers & shops to buy a lot of fresh produce for meals. The family has made an effort to integrate into the local community. Some energy was provided by solar power.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
**** - fantastic place to go with small children - we actually had a chance to relax a bit & have pleasant evenings after they were in bed.
| Reviewed 25 Mar 2007 by Tamsin Gilbert | |
We had a fantastic time at this accommodation. It was so easy with the two children (toddlers) and Sarah and Johnny Robinson are excellent hosts and we were well looked after all week. The views in particular were stunning!
A tip for those travelling to the accommodation with kids - don't bother packing too much baby equipment, because Sarah seems to be able to provide most things! Oh...and remember that Spain can be cold in March! Sarah and Johnny were very helpful in telling us the best local shops to use - butchers, bakers etc and the business seemed to be very sympathetic to the local community and environment.
Overall we had a fantastic holiday; we did not have to worry about the kids - there was always plenty of 'wholesome' activity such as getting messy in the sandpit, tearing up and down the terrace on bikes/tractors, watching the goats or generally just exploring the countryside. Since the kids were happy, we as parents were therefore happy and felt more relaxed than we have done in a long, long time.
Whilst we were there to 'self cater', Sarah's food was also fantastic when we needed a break - far better than any hotel we've been into. We would thoroughly recommend a holiday to this accommodation, particularly for those with children.
A tip for those travelling to the accommodation with kids - don't bother packing too much baby equipment, because Sarah seems to be able to provide most things! Oh...and remember that Spain can be cold in March! Sarah and Johnny were very helpful in telling us the best local shops to use - butchers, bakers etc and the business seemed to be very sympathetic to the local community and environment.
Overall we had a fantastic holiday; we did not have to worry about the kids - there was always plenty of 'wholesome' activity such as getting messy in the sandpit, tearing up and down the terrace on bikes/tractors, watching the goats or generally just exploring the countryside. Since the kids were happy, we as parents were therefore happy and felt more relaxed than we have done in a long, long time.
Whilst we were there to 'self cater', Sarah's food was also fantastic when we needed a break - far better than any hotel we've been into. We would thoroughly recommend a holiday to this accommodation, particularly for those with children.
| Reviewed 25 Nov 2006 by Dave Partridge | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Travelling with our little boy overseas for the first time! Awesome mountain views, the peace and quiet and some beautiful local beaches away from the tourist trail of Benidorm.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Relax, unwind and let Sarah and Johnny look after you! Drink as much of the local red wine as possible - it is great, doesn't give you a hangover and benefits the local wine producer 5 minutes round the corner. Explore Jalon and try purchasing the local meats, breads and avoid the big supermarkets wherever possible.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes absolutely. All food and wine was wherever possible sourced from local producers / businesses. We were very impressed with the quality of the food cooked by Sarah as it was authentically Spanish. Power was solar with small generator which was used for high use periods. Would recommend further efforts are made to recycle wherever possible and clear instructions provided.
| Reviewed 29 Oct 2006 by Liz West | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The wonderful views and hospitality. This accommodation was the most beautiful place in a stunning setting, but more importantly it was very welcoming and completely child-friendly. The children were able to explore and play with their new friends in safety, and I was able to read three books in a week - which I haven't done since my last child-free holiday 7 years ago! The food was great and it was a real bonus that we were able to be so flexible with catering arrangements.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Just enjoy!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - Sarah & Johnny have strong links with local suppliers and businesses.
| Reviewed 26 Aug 2006 by Tim Wilson | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
This accommodation feels like a treat for adults as well as for children. The setting and lovely outdoor seating areas with mountain views plus safe play areas and toys for the children make the holiday more relaxing. You would have to stay at the place though to appreciate the warmth and generosity of the Robinson family. Our boys had some great times and Ben recently asked when we were going on the 'party holiday' again in Spain. We enjoyed having the opportunity to have meals made for us and to dip in and out of the relaxed company of the family and some fellow visitors. Don't buy wine to take there -the local stuff is great and supplied at the villa.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
I would recommend it to families and to couples as there are loads of seating areas. You don't need toys but as the TV reception isn't great taking a DVD player was useful. I would say that the local walkable restaurants are really for daytime in terms of walking to and from unless you are hardy and don't mind crossing scrubland in the dark. It's a nice place for walks and cycling though it’s not flat! I would also ask for tips on where to go and not to go on the Costa as it’s a surprisingly nice coast if you go to the right beaches and a bit dismal when you don't.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Well there was certainly a lot of produce bought and delivered by locals. We enjoyed going to see the local goat herd and collecting eggs from a nearby farm. Not sure I'm green enough to comment beyond the fact that they use solar energy.
4. Any other comments?
Definitely one of the best ones we've been on with our young children and we want to go again. I would say it's a 4 star plus.
| Reviewed 5 Aug 2006 by Jill Malloy | |
We had a wonderful holiday. Very relaxing and child friendly. Pretty perfect really. Sarah, Johnny and their kids couldn't have been nicer or more welcoming. One to recommend.
| Reviewed 16 Jul 2006 by Nicola Davis | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Travelling for the first time with our two year old twins.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
An ideal location for action packed or relaxing holiday. Great walking opportunities, short drive to beaches and bigger towns BUT isolated enough to feel like you can get away from it all if you want.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. The owners were very quick to promote local businesses and obviously used them themselves. The power came from solar panels (supplemented by generator).
| Reviewed 20 Oct 2005 by Philippa Hocking | |
The warmth of the welcome we received made us feel like old friends of the lovely family who were to be our hosts for the week. There was a thoughtfully put together welcome hamper so we had time to relax and get our bearings before we had to venture away for supplies, including olive oil made from the olives grown on the terraces we overlooked.
The valley itself is so beautiful and peaceful, I felt completely relaxed there, the mist at sunrise was almost ethereal. When we return there in a few weeks I would love to spend more time exploring the valley and surrounding hills.
There are lovely beaches a short drive away and the guide written by our hosts helped us to avoid the crowds. My children cannot wait to return, it is such a child friendly place, from the trunk of age appropriate games and books in their bedroom, to the easygoing family who made us so welcome.We had a wonderful time!
This doesn't even come close to how lovely it all was, I'll give you an update when we return this time!
The valley itself is so beautiful and peaceful, I felt completely relaxed there, the mist at sunrise was almost ethereal. When we return there in a few weeks I would love to spend more time exploring the valley and surrounding hills.
There are lovely beaches a short drive away and the guide written by our hosts helped us to avoid the crowds. My children cannot wait to return, it is such a child friendly place, from the trunk of age appropriate games and books in their bedroom, to the easygoing family who made us so welcome.We had a wonderful time!
This doesn't even come close to how lovely it all was, I'll give you an update when we return this time!
| Reviewed 14 Apr 2007 by Emma Shaw | |
Beautiful scenery and a great spot, away from the hubbub of the Costa's but within easy reach of beaches and children's activities. A great venue for families with young children, particularly extended families wanting to holiday together but also wanting their own space. Very enjoyable but marred slightly in our case by appalling weather. The Robinson's use a lot of local produce in their catering and support many of the local businesses.