This was my second visit to La Zenia but my first to stay in the La Zenia Hotel. This large hotel structure dominates the vast beach and is located about a kilometer from the original 'town centre' which I first visited in 2012.
Much has changed in the village of La Zenia which was by and large a combination of new build communities of expatriates from sundry European countries with shops and pubs that service them. . It could loosely be described as a popular retirement destination and holiday resort. However now with its enormous shopping centre, large beach and hotels it could be defines as a serious tourist town.
My visit was to surprise a retired friend so incognito residence in the La Zenia hotel was part of the plot. The hotel reception was chatty, efficient and as ever tolerant of those of us that assume everyone we deal with must speak our language.
Our bedroom had a balcony and a comfortable bed but it was the restaurant that was the most pleasant surprise.
We had booked the deal that included breakfast and one meal, either lunch or evening meal. We opted for the evening meal.
The sheer scale and layout of the bright Restaurant was a very pleasant surprise. At once it immediately looked inviting and by contradiction intimate. Island spaces were cleverly allocated to facilitate the self service zones and the 'help yourself' array of very creative starters and deserts were almost overwhelming. This had the advantage of limiting the service counter queue for main courses that often accompanies self service dining.
In addition to the restaurant there is a sizable bar with inside and outside service and most interestingly a nightly cabaret or performance for your entertainment.
Definitely a nice place to eat and sleep as the little noise that there is are sound of the Mediterranean or the outside guests of the hotel or the hotel pool area next door.
