When you think of Spain, the first places that often come to mind are Barcelona, Madrid, or the idyllic islands. However, tucked away in the northwest of the country lies Vigo, a coastal gem that’s often overlooked by tourists. I had the chance to visit this charming Spanish city, and one of the highlights of my trip was staying in a hotel where the sound of the ocean waves greeted me every morning.
1. Location: A Coastal Dream in Vigo
I’ve always believed that where you stay can make or break a trip. In Vigo, I found an unforgettable base for my adventure—Hotel Marisol. This small yet elegant hotel is perched on a hill that overlooks the bustling harbor of Vigo and the vast Atlantic Ocean beyond. Located just a 10-minute drive from the city center, the hotel offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, while still being close enough to all the action.
The location couldn’t be more perfect. I’ve always been a fan of waking up to the sight of the sea, and at Hotel Marisol, that dream became a reality. My room had large windows that provided a panoramic view of the bay, with the sprawling ocean stretching into the horizon. If you want to feel like you’re living inside a painting, this is definitely the place to stay.
2. Hotel Marisol: An Ocean View Like No Other
From the moment I stepped inside the hotel, I knew I had made the right choice. The reception area was cozy, with a modern yet rustic vibe that felt very much in tune with Vigo’s maritime atmosphere. The staff was warm and welcoming, always ready to offer advice about where to eat or what to explore around town.
But it was the room that truly won me over. I had booked one of their oceanfront suites, and as soon as I opened the door, the room took my breath away. The space was airy, with light pouring in from the massive windows, and the soft sea breeze floated through the room, carrying with it the unmistakable scent of saltwater. I had an unobstructed view of the harbor, with the small boats gently rocking in the water. On the horizon, the Atlantic was a deep blue, a beautiful contrast to the lush green hills in the distance.
The room itself was spacious and very comfortable. It featured a large bed with crisp, white linens that made for the perfect spot to lounge and take in the view. The furniture had a simple, modern design, yet it felt cozy and homey. There was a small desk area for those who needed to get some work done (though who would want to do anything but relax here?), and the bathroom was modern with high-quality toiletries and a walk-in shower.
The highlight, of course, was the view. I spent hours just staring out of the window, watching the waves crash against the rocky shore, and the changing sky as the day went by. Even during the night, the ocean kept its presence, with the moonlight shimmering on the water, casting a calming glow into the room.
3. Booking the Stay: Easy and Straightforward
I had come across Hotel Marisol while researching places to stay in Vigo, and booking my stay was simple. I used Booking.com to secure my reservation, where I found a range of room options, including their ocean-view suites. The process was seamless, with a clear breakdown of pricing and availability. For a 5-night stay in the oceanfront suite, I paid around €1,100, which I thought was very reasonable for a location of this caliber. The price included breakfast each morning, which I looked forward to, as it offered a selection of freshly baked pastries, fruits, and local cheeses.
What I found particularly useful about Booking.com was the free cancellation option that came with the booking, allowing for peace of mind in case my plans changed. The platform also showed real reviews from previous guests, which were incredibly helpful. Many reviewers had praised the hotel’s location and its friendly staff, and I found their feedback to be accurate once I arrived.
4. The Unforgettable Ocean Views
Every morning, I woke up early just to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic. There’s something indescribably peaceful about the way the light slowly seeps across the sky, casting an array of colors on the water. I would sit by the window, sipping my coffee, and take it all in, feeling both relaxed and invigorated at the same time.
On one particularly beautiful morning, I decided to take a walk along the waterfront. The area surrounding the hotel is full of picturesque paths that wind through lush greenery and along the rocky coastline. The air was fresh and the scent of the sea was ever-present. It felt like I had the whole place to myself, with only a few locals walking their dogs or enjoying the view.
5. Exploring Vigo: A Blend of History and Nature
While the hotel and its views were an undeniable highlight, I didn’t want to miss out on what the city of Vigo itself had to offer. Situated in the Galician region, Vigo is known for its historic architecture, bustling port, and surrounding natural beauty. A quick visit to the Old Town, known as Casco Vello, revealed a maze of narrow, cobbled streets lined with colorful houses and quaint cafes. The area was full of character, with small boutiques and artisan shops scattered throughout. I particularly enjoyed visiting the Mercado da Pedra, a market known for its fresh seafood. The market is an excellent spot to taste some of the region’s specialties, such as octopus or ‘empanada gallega’ (a delicious Galician pastry filled with various ingredients).
Another must-see is the Parque de Castrelos, a beautiful park that’s just a short drive from the hotel. The park is home to a lovely 17th-century mansion, and I spent several hours wandering around the well-kept gardens, enjoying the tranquility and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. If you’re a nature lover, there are numerous trails and viewpoints scattered around Vigo that are perfect for hiking or simply soaking in the scenery.
6. Dining in Vigo: A Taste of Galicia
No trip to Galicia would be complete without indulging in some of the region’s famous cuisine. One of the best things about staying at Hotel Marisol was its proximity to some of the best seafood restaurants in the area. The hotel staff gave me a few recommendations, and I decided to try O Portón, a family-owned restaurant known for its fresh seafood. The dish I most recommend is the “caldeirada,” a traditional Galician fish stew, which was both hearty and flavorful. Paired with a glass of Albariño, a crisp local white wine, the meal was a true delight.
For a more casual experience, I also visited the nearby Mercado de Abastos, where local vendors sell fresh produce, meats, and fish. I bought some local cheeses, cured meats, and a bottle of Albariño wine, then headed back to the hotel to enjoy a picnic on the terrace while watching the boats float by. It’s a simple pleasure, but the fresh ingredients and breathtaking views made it an unforgettable experience.
7. Amenities and Services: Comfort with a Personal Touch
Though Hotel Marisol is a smaller hotel, it’s packed with thoughtful amenities. One of the standout features was the in-house spa, which offers a variety of treatments, including massages and facials. After a long day of sightseeing, I treated myself to a soothing massage, which was incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating.
The hotel also has a small but well-equipped gym, perfect for anyone who wants to stay active while traveling. I was able to get in a morning workout before heading out for a day of exploring, and it felt great to maintain some routine while away from home.
The free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel was reliable, and there were plenty of power outlets in the room, making it easy to charge devices, especially with all the photos I was taking of the stunning view.
8. The Cost: Worth Every Penny
I’ve stayed in a lot of hotels during my travels, but Hotel Marisol stands out as one of the best experiences I’ve had. The total cost of my stay for five nights, including breakfast and the oceanfront suite, was around €1,100. While it’s certainly not the cheapest option in Vigo, the experience was well worth it. You’re paying for more than just a place to sleep—you’re paying for the views, the comfort, and the personal touch that the hotel provides.
9. Booking Platform: A Seamless Experience
As mentioned, I booked my stay through Booking.com, which is my go-to platform for hotel reservations. The website is user-friendly and provides plenty of details about the hotel, including photos, reviews, and pricing information. I also appreciate that Booking.com often has special deals and offers, which made the experience even more enjoyable. For those who like to plan ahead, I recommend using the platform’s filtering options to find exactly what you’re looking for in terms of location, price range, and amenities.
The check-in and check-out process at Hotel Marisol was incredibly easy, and the staff made sure everything was seamless. I appreciated their attention to detail, and they made me feel right at home.
10. A Stay to Remember
I left Vigo with a heavy heart, knowing that I would miss the sound of the ocean, the stunning views, and the quiet comfort of Hotel Marisol. If you ever find yourself in this beautiful part of Spain, I highly recommend booking a stay at this hotel. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a relaxing retreat, or simply a place to enjoy the beauty of the Atlantic coast, Hotel Marisol offers everything you could ask for.
If you do decide to visit, make sure to take your time enjoying the view from your room. Trust me—there’s nothing like waking up to the sight of the ocean stretching out before you, a view that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
