The hype
Guests are wowed by the sheer size and modern look but frustrated by chaotic buffet crowds and 'learning curve' service errors.
Barcelo Playa Blanca
$180-350/ night
Book this if You want a massive, shiny new mega-resort with a 'hotel within a hotel' option for adults, and you don't mind sacrificing some service polish for scale.
Why People Love It
- The Royal Level's exclusive heated infinity pool is a genuine sanctuary
- Walking distance (10 mins) to the upscale Marina Rubicón dining scene
- Modern, César Manrique-inspired architecture that feels fresh and airy
Quick Take: A visually stunning hardware beast let down by 'teething' service software and a baffling open-plan bathroom design that kills privacy.
Reviewed by @Amywx: I stayed in the swim-up suite here and it was pure bliss. The modern design is stunning, and having the pool right at my doorstep made the trip unforgettable. It's the perfect spot if you just want to disconnect and soak up the sun in style.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Royal Level' is worth the upgrade for the pool alone, but don't expect the food there to be Michelin-star quality—it's just a quieter version of the main buffet.
- You are a couple who is comfortable with zero bathroom privacy
- You want a dedicated 'adults-only' zone but with access to big resort facilities
- You prioritize a modern, Instagrammable pool scene over personalized service
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Generally good, but reports of 'rushed' service and missed items (like replacing cups/water) are common.
- Bathroom hygiene: Visually spotless and modern grout, but the open design means steam and odors escape into the bedroom easily.
- Maintenance: Brand new feel, but 'teething issues' like broken AC sensors or key cards not working are frequent.
- Linens & towels: Fresh, white, and fluffy—no complaints here.
- Odors & scents: The lobby smells like signature Barceló fragrance, but the back of the hotel suffers from the infamous local sewage plant drift.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Entertainment noise echoing in the lobby atrium
- Corridor noise due to gaps under doors
- Early morning garbage collection trucks near the back blocks
Before you book
Good to know
- Parking is no longer free; it costs €5/day and spaces can fill up.
- The 'All Inclusive' drinks menu has exclusions; premium brands cost extra even for AI guests.
- Men must wear long trousers for dinner in the a la carte restaurants (enforced).
What to pack
- A portable sound machine to drown out corridor noise
- Your own pool towel clips (it gets very windy)
- Warm layers for the evening—the wind off the Atlantic is no joke
Room Genie
Best picks
- Royal Level Deluxe Sea View (top floor) for the best views of Fuerteventura and less noise
- Block 3 or 4, higher floors, to avoid the 'back gate' smells and street noise
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor 'Swim-Up' rooms in winter (pool is too cold to use)
- Rooms near the 'back gate' or waste management area (sewage odor risk)
- Standard rooms if you are not a couple (bathroom privacy is non-existent)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Request a room in Block 3 or 4 on a high floor, facing the ocean/pool, strictly away from the back service gate and waste disposal area.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the Royal Level worth the extra cost?
Yes, 100%. The private heated pool and separate breakfast area save you from the main buffet chaos, which can feel like a zoo.
Is the main pool heated?
Only partially. The massive 180m pool has a heated section, but the rest (and the swim-up pools) can be bracingly cold.
How bad is the bathroom privacy situation?
It's a dealbreaker for some. The sink is in the room, and the toilet/shower have semi-transparent glass doors. You hear and see everything.
Is there construction noise nearby?
There is a paused/slow construction site nearby (new hotel extension), but current complaints focus more on the sewage smell than active jackhammering.
Can I walk to the beach?
Yes, Playa Dorada is about 100m away (5 min walk). It's a public sandy beach with sunbeds for rent.
Do I need to book restaurants in advance?
Absolutely. Book the Asian (Koi) and Mexican restaurants the moment you check in (or via the app beforehand) or you will be stuck at the buffet.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Wellness Centre' gym is actually excellent and often empty—great ocean views while you run.
- ✨
Don't leave food unattended on your balcony or at the pool bar; the seagulls are aggressive and will snatch it.
- ✨
Use the TUI/Barceló app to check restaurant menus and book tables; it works better than the reception desk.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'sewage plant' smell isn't just a rumor; it wafts over the back of the resort when the wind changes.
💡The 'Swim-Up' rooms often get very little sun depending on the block orientation, making the water even colder.
💡You have to pay for water at dinner if you are on Half Board (standard for Spain, but surprises many).
💡The 'Pirate Ship' kids' pool is fantastic but can get overcrowded with non-hotel guests sneaking in from the promenade.
💡Royal Level guests have a separate check-in, but it can still be slow during peak arrival times.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Barcelo Playa Blanca is located and what's nearby.