"This was our third stay at Gran Oasis and it didn’t disappoint. There are so many positives it is hard to know where to begin. Firstly, to set the scene, we travelled as a couple (85 and 66 years of age), we go on many holidays during the year and love luxury. This isn’t what we would call luxurious BUT it is EXCELLENT value for money and we always love our stay for many reasons.
The location for some might not be suitable as it is out of town (20 minute walk), and steep coming back. The resort also has lots of steps but we both love those aspects as it forces us to keep fit. We do a minimum of 10-12, 000 steps/day (it often feels like more because of the hills). There is a shuttle bus each morning and a return bus back every afternoon, otherwise it’s a taxi ride - approximately €7. There is also an easier, very pleasant, but longer walk into town from the back of the resort which is adjacent to the golf course next door. Takes about 30 minutes into town and 45 minutes back because of the incline.
Although this is very much a family resort, (we prefer to visit out of school holidays), this visit was 2 weeks over Christmas and New Year and it was operating at full capacity and so there were lots of children but everyone was well behaved and there was a lovely atmosphere. We asked for our usual room/duplex in a quiet part of the resort and it was perfect. We weren’t disturbed by noisy children, noisy adults or the entertainment - which is impressive.
Our duplex was great, yes it may be a little tired and basic BUT we have no complaints. It was kept beautifully clean throughout our stay, fresh towels replaced when requested. The bathroom and shower were perfect and always kept spotlessly clean. The lady who did our daily cleaning was friendly and did a super job. All the cleaners were friendly and hard working.
We could hear the night time entertainment but it finished at a reasonable hour and didn’t bother us.
We stayed bed and breakfast only, mainly because we like to eat out at lunch time and then have a snack in the evening and also because we knew the restaurant would be crowded and fairly noisy. We did however manage to find a table for breakfast every day in the quiet area near the entrance to the main restaurant which was perfect for us. The breakfast food suited us and we saw that there was lots of choice for families. The restaurant staff were/are exceptional. They work so hard to make everyone feel welcome and to keep all areas clean and well organised to cater for the large numbers coming through. They manage this through excellent management and staff training. Special mention must be made to the gentleman on the desk at the entrance to the restaurant, it is so special when you are recognised from previous visits and welcomed so warmly. We used to watch him, and other staff at the front and they always made a good welcome with both children and adults, even in the busiest of times. Also, without doubt, the efforts that were made for Christmas and the New Year celebration dinners was outstanding. Such SUPERB organisation. We didn’t stay for the dinners but watched how it was all prepared (and cleared up), and were so impressed. The following day, everything had been cleared and it was spotless. The staff all work together and make a great team. This must be down to the management, well chosen staff and good training. Impressive.
Also, the Christmas decorations which, although weren’t what we would choose for us, but they fitted the bill very well and made us smile. The children loved it all and again very well thought through but also some more tastefully done for the likes of us fuss pots - the planted up fountain at the front entrance was beautifully done as was that whole area as well as the twinkly lights around the resort.
The grounds of Gran Oasis are also impressive - such a well thought through design and the gardened areas live up to the oasis theme. The gardeners were frequently seen tending the areas - we never saw any litter and everything looked well manicured and loved. Staff came over as being proud of their efforts and this we appreciated.
The swimming pool areas catered for all needs; very young children had several areas whilst a larger pool area (which was never crowded), could cater for older children and adults. Although tempting, we never had a swim but would definitely try it at another time of the year. It always looked clean and tidy.
The reception staff too were always very good and again well chosen for their people skills as well as being well trained. Always helpful. Special mention must be made to the gentleman who helped us locate our lost wallet which we’d left in the taxi on our last day. We’d ordered a taxi for 4am and once at the airport realised what had happened. We rang Gran Oasis and they contacted the taxi company and our wallet was at the airport information - what a relief. Thank you!
We highly recommend Gran Oasis Resort and thank all staff for their huge efforts. We look forward to our next stay!"
