6 Best Hotels in Costa del Sol and Costa de Almeria, Spain

In the heart of the old quarter, early-19th-century architecture is paired with comfortable and up-to-date amenities in this boutique hotel with strong design features. Spacious rooms come with exposed stone walls and photos of the city and surroundings, while acrylic and chrome fittings combine with antique furniture. The upstairs terrace (April–October) is great for views of the city while sipping cocktails, and the underground 15th-century Arab baths (included in some rates) continue the relaxation theme.

This quaint family-run hotel comes with a pink-and-white neo-Moorish facade, a choice location next to the beach and near the botanical park, and comfortable rooms that are all different. All the rooms have either private balconies or large picture windows with superb views: their modern fittings contrast with antiques and the occasional four-poster bed. The restaurant specializes in traditional cuisine, such as migas (bread crumbs fried with sausage and spices), grilled meats—try the lamb—and paella.

Perched up on a hill just outside the white village of Riogordo, this Belgian-run establishment offers boutique bed and breakfast in traditional rustic surroundings, with possibly the best views in the area. Rooms, all named for the seven nearest villages, are spacious, with crisp white linen, and complimentary tea and coffee, and most enjoy vistas. All but one have a terrace area, and the Alcaucin suite has a private balcony. Outside, guests have use of the good-sized swimming pool, where you'll find the best views, particularly at sunrise and sunset. Fragrant lemon trees flank the pretty patio and there's an impressive cactus garden. The homemade breakfast includes daily cake and pastry specials, as well as fresh seasonal fruit. 

Down a side street near the center of town but still near the sea, this British-owned boutique hotel combines a great location and views with comfortable, pleasant rooms. You'll find shelves of books, antiques, and cozy overstuffed sofas in the downstairs sitting room. Colorful oil paintings by the local artist David Broadhead are showcased throughout the property. The excellent Restaurant 34 serves contemporary and traditional dishes such as scallops in lemon and ginger, and roast pork; you can dine on the extended terrace with sea views. For a lighter bite, try Tapas Bar 34, with a street-side terrace. The hotel is usually closed from December through February, but check exact dates.  Rooms with sea views are well worth the extra cost.

This centrally located and gracious hotel has well-priced rooms that are small but functional, with double glazing to block out any late-night street revelry—those facing the side street or the interior patio are the quietest. The owners are friendly, although they don't speak a lot of English.

With friendly Dutch owners and rooms with lots of traditional Andalusian features and even a few Moroccan touches, this hotel makes a perfect rural retreat. Built around a central courtyard like that in a Moroccan riad, the hotel was formed out of five village houses; some rooms have terraces with views over Ojén, and they're all atmospheric and restful. Flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi keep you from feeling too cut off, however, and the heated pool is a big plus.