Mas Salagros EcoResort & SPA

Mas Salagros EcoResort & SPA, nestled in the serene natural reserve of Parc de la Serralada Litoral in Catalonia, Spain, is a Michelin Key Selected property known for its deep commitment to sustainability and tranquil atmosphere. This eco-friendly resort, built on the grounds of a 15th-century farmhouse, aims to provide a space for guests to reconnect with nature and themselves.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Mas Salagros EcoResort & SPA is overwhelmingly positive, often described by guests as a "magical place," "pure bliss and tranquility," and "an absolute dream." It boasts high ratings for staff, cleanliness, and location. However, some guests note that while enjoyable, certain aspects of the hotel, particularly the rooms, might not entirely align with the expectations of a 5-star property.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise several standout features of Mas Salagros. The AIRE Ancient Baths thermal circuit is frequently highlighted as a spectacular and divine experience, offering various baths, steam rooms, and massages within a beautifully designed, candle-lit setting in an old farmhouse. The resort's eco-friendly philosophy and use of organic, sustainable materials and practices are also significant drawcards. The beautiful natural surroundings, including a lake and views of the surrounding park, contribute to a sense of peace and quiet. The friendly, welcoming, and helpful staff receive widespread acclaim. Additionally, the excellent food and the convenience of being just 20 km (12 miles) from Barcelona, with complimentary transfers, are frequently appreciated.

3. Room Quality

Mas Salagros features 54 modern and down-to-earth guest rooms and suites. Rooms are decorated with natural and ecological materials, often featuring antique wooden doors refashioned as headboards and organic cotton sheets. Many rooms include a private terrace or garden, offering pleasant views. While generally found to be clean and well-maintained, feedback on room quality is somewhat mixed. Some guests describe them as spacious and comfortable, while others feel the decor and size are more akin to a 3 or 4-star hotel rather than a 5-star. Comfort of beds and pillows also receives mixed reviews, with some finding them very comfortable and others describing them as disappointing.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Mas Salagros is a significant highlight, with guests consistently praising the food quality, variety, and the use of fresh, organic, seasonal, and local ingredients. The resort offers three gastronomic options: Restaurant 1497, Cibus (a terrace with ecological food), and a Gastro Wine Bar featuring organic wines and tapas. The breakfast buffet is particularly acclaimed for its extensiveness, fresh ingredients, and made-to-order items like avocado toast and eggs. Wine pairings with organic wines at Restaurant 1497 have also been noted as a unique experience.

5. Service & Staff

The staff and service at Mas Salagros consistently receive excellent feedback. Guests frequently describe the staff as friendly, welcoming, kind, helpful, and attentive, often going "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay. A complimentary glass of cava upon arrival is also a welcoming touch.

6. Location & Accessibility

The eco-resort is situated in Vallromanes, within a nature reserve, offering a quiet and tranquil escape with beautiful views of the Serralada Litoral Park. It is conveniently located about 20 km (12 miles) from Barcelona, with the hotel providing free transfers four times a day, allowing guests to easily enjoy both the countryside and city attractions. The Circuit of Catalunya track is only a 14-minute drive away, and nearby activities include hiking, golf (Vallromanes Golf Club is 1 km away), and shopping at La Roca Village. Free private parking and WiFi are available on-site.

7. Value & Pricing

Value for money receives mixed opinions. While some guests find the experience entirely worth the cost, others express that the pricing does not always align with the perceived quality of certain amenities and services, especially for a property marketed as 5-star. Room rates can vary, with recent bookings on KAYAK showing prices from approximately $200-$220, though higher rates up to $447 have been observed.

8. Common Complaints

Recurring criticisms include rooms being perceived as "basic" for a 5-star hotel and issues with air conditioning, which some guests reported as either not working effectively or only providing heat during certain seasons, even when temperatures were high. Mosquitoes were also noted as a problem for some guests, exacerbated by broken bathroom windows preventing them from being securely closed. Noise disturbances from neighbors, doors, or even a motor have been mentioned. A notable complaint from some guests was the unexpected closure of the gourmet restaurant and wine bar, particularly on Sundays, without prior notification, impacting their dining plans. The fitness center is described by some as small with worn equipment.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. massalagros.com
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4. preferredhotels.com
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7. trivago.co.uk
8. barcelonafoodexperience.com
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10. myboutiquehotel.com
11. kayak.com
12. trip.com