The hype
Guests love the pool and the 'castle' aesthetic but consistently hate the nickel-and-diming on parking and resort fees.
Eilan Hotel And Spa An Ascend Resort Seaworld Area
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a Tuscan-style resort pool and spa day near Six Flags without the downtown San Antonio chaos.
Why People Love It
- The massive outdoor pool with cabanas feels like a legitimate resort
- Sustenio restaurant serves surprisingly high-end Texas cuisine
- Walking distance to The Rim shopping center and very close to Six Flags
Quick Take: A beautiful faux-Italian fortress that feels luxurious until you get hit with the mandatory valet fee and the timeshare sales pitch.
Reviewed by @pretty.happy.living: I was blown away by how much this place feels like Italy! The architecture is stunning, and lounging by the pool with that waterfall was pure bliss. It’s the perfect spot if you need a luxury escape without leaving the country. Highly recommend for a couple's trip.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'luxury' veneer wears thin when you realize housekeeping is often 'on request' only and the rooms are starting to look a bit dated (think 2012 beige).
- You plan to spend all day at the pool or spa
- You are visiting Six Flags or La Cantera and want a short drive
- You don't mind driving or Ubering for most meals
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Often 'on request' due to timeshare model. Some guests report missed days.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally good, marble finishes hide dirt well, but watch for mold in grout lines in older units.
- Maintenance: Aging gracefully but aging. Reports of 'crusty remotes', dim lights, and worn carpets in hallways.
- Linens & towels: Decent quality, but check for stains upon arrival (occasional complaints).
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells expensive (signature scent), but hallways can smell like chlorine or old carpet.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Thin walls (neighbors talking/TVs)
- Hallway noise from tile floors
- Plumbing noise from adjacent rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- Breakfast is NOT free; expect to pay $15-30 per person at Sustenio or grab a pastry at Mercato.
- Housekeeping is often 'light' or by request only—ask at check-in if you want daily service.
- The 'resort fee' includes spa access (sauna/steam), so actually use it to get your money's worth.
What to pack
- Earplugs (for the thin walls)
- Refillable water bottle (gym has stations)
- Dressy casual clothes (Sustenio is nicer than your average hotel restaurant)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Hill Country View rooms (top floors) for sunsets and silence
- Pool View rooms if you like people-watching (but risk daytime noise)
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevators (high foot traffic)
- Lower floor rooms facing the valet/entrance (car noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor facing the Hill Country for a quiet stay. Please avoid rooms near the elevator banks or facing the main valet entrance.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is parking really mandatory valet?
Yes. While there are empty lots nearby, the hotel strictly enforces valet for guests at ~$39+/night.
Is there free breakfast?
No. You can buy coffee/pastries at Mercato or a full sit-down breakfast at Sustenio.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Technically yes, Piatti is nearby, but the area is hilly and car-centric. You'll likely drive to The Rim or La Cantera.
Is the pool heated?
The indoor lap pool is heated year-round. The large outdoor pool is generally not heated to 'bath' temperatures in winter.
Do I have to attend a timeshare presentation?
No. You can firmly say 'no' at check-in. Do not feel obligated to sign up for anything to get your room key.
Is it good for kids?
Yes, the pool is a hit and Six Flags is next door, but the vibe is slightly more 'adult couple' than 'family fun park'.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The steam room in the spa is often accessible with your resort fee—ask for a key card to the spa locker room even if you don't book a massage.
- ✨
Walk to Piatti (Italian restaurant) just down the street for a great meal that isn't in the hotel.
- ✨
Request a room away from the 'wedding lawn' on weekends to avoid DJ noise.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'chlorine smell' can sometimes drift into the elevators near the indoor pool.
💡The in-mirror TVs in the bathrooms are a cool gimmick but often have terrible reception.
💡You might see 'owners' (timeshare holders) getting preferential treatment or different wristbands.
💡The 'market' cafe (Mercato) closes relatively early; don't count on it for late-night snacks.
💡Uber drivers sometimes get confused by the complex entrance loop—drop a pin carefully.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Eilan Hotel And Spa An Ascend Resort Seaworld Area is located and what's nearby.