Olot Penthouse: Your Dream City Apartment Awaits!
Olot Penthouse: Your Dream City Apartment Awaits!
Olot Penthouse: My Dream City Apartment…or Just a Really Good One? (A Messy, Honest Review)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I’m about to unleash my brain on you about Olot Penthouse. "Your Dream City Apartment Awaits!" they say. Dream? Maybe. Excellent? Absolutely. Messy? Definitely. Let's dive into this glorious, often-chaotic experience, shall we?
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Accessibility: The Good, the Okay, and the "Hmmmm…"
Right off the bat, let's talk about the elephant in the room (or, you know, the elevator). Olot Penthouse says it's accessible, and they've got the elevator. That's HUGE. Bless them. Big win for anyone needing a little extra help getting around. The corridors seemed wide enough, which is another plus. BUT, and this is a BIG but (pun intended, sorry), I didn't actually test it with a wheelchair. So, take that with a grain of salt. Always double-check and clarify specifics if this is a make-or-break deal for you. My experience was visually accessible, but I can't personally vouch for the nuances. My partner did mention the door to the bathrooms might be narrow, and it was a tad bit of a struggle getting the pushchair in. This is definitely something to consider when booking.
On-site Accessible Restaurants/Lounges: I'm not sure how accessible the actual restaurant and lounge seating is to every guest. This is something I'd want to clarify with the hotel.
Internet Access: Bless the Wi-Fi Gods!
Let's celebrate the victories first: FREE WI-FI IN EVERY ROOM! Hallelujah! Seriously, this is a non-negotiable for me. I need to work, I need to binge-watch, I need to stalk my ex (kidding… mostly). The Wi-Fi was strong, reliable, and didn't randomly cut out like my last relationship. Plus, they covered all the bases with:
- Internet, Internet [LAN], Internet services, Wi-Fi in public areas, Wi-Fi for special events. They got the memo! My partner used the shared network and had no issues. I'm old school, I used the LAN and my internet was lightning fast.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: Spa Day, Anyone? (Or Just a Nap?)
Okay, this is where Olot Penthouse really shines. So many options! My face muscles actually ached from smiling (that's a good problem, by the way).
- Pool with a View: Stunning. Absolutely stunning. The pictures don’t do it justice. Floating there, looking out over the city, sipping a cocktail… Pure bliss. It was a bit busy on a Saturday, but that's to be expected. It really is a place you could get used to.
- Spa/Sauna/Steamroom: I didn't personally indulge in the full spa experience (priorities, people!), but the facilities looked top-notch. I peered in and everything looked clean, gleaming and inviting.
- Fitness Center: I, uh… saw it. Didn’t use it. Guilty. But it looked well-equipped, which is more than I can say for my current level of fitness.
- Massage, Body Scrub, Body Wrap: Again, not for me this time. Next time, though. Definitely next time.
- Gym/fitness, Pool with view: A good blend of relaxation and fitness. It was a perfect blend of relaxation and fitness.
What I did do? I took a long, luxurious nap in my room. Sometimes, that's the best "way to relax."
Cleanliness and Safety: Did They Send in the SWAT Team?
Okay, so this area is incredibly important to me, especially these days. I'm a bit of a germaphobe, I'll admit it. The good news is: Olot Penthouse gets it.
- Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. They really did go all-in.
- Hand sanitizer every which way.
- They had hygiene certification.
- The fact that you can opt-out of room sanitization is great, really good for the planet.
It felt safe. I felt safe. Which, honestly, is a huge deal.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food, Glorious Food! (And Drinks!)
This is another area where Olot Penthouse really delivers. I mean, they've got it all!
- Restaurants, Bar, Poolside bar, Coffee shop, Snack bar: Yep, covered.
- Breakfast [buffet], A la carte in restaurant, Breakfast service, Vegetarian restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Buffet in restaurant, Breakfast takeaway service, Alternative meal arrangement: Choices, choices! They were really flexible.
- Room service [24-hour]: Thank you! (You have no idea how important this is after a long day of sightseeing.)
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: Essential for the caffeine addict like moi.
- Happy hour: Score!
- Bottle of water: Always appreciated.
The breakfast was delicious. I went with the buffet, and it was a good buffet. Not just the usual hotel fare, but fresh, flavorful, and with a good variety of options. I definitely overate (regret? Not a chance!). And the coffee? Let's just say I had to have a few cups.
I grabbed a few snacks from the snack bar later in the day. The service was quick and friendly.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things that Make a Big Difference
This is where Olot Penthouse really proved they care about guests.
- Concierge, Doorman: Helpful and friendly, always there to offer assistance.
- Daily housekeeping: My room was always spotless. They snuck in and made the bed while I was out exploring.
- Laundry service, Dry cleaning, Ironing service: Because who wants to spend their vacation doing laundry?
- Luggage storage: Super convenient.
- Cash withdrawal, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Invoice provided, Cashless payment service: All the practical stuff you need.
- Elevator: Life-saving for a clumsy person like me.
They really thought of everything. It makes a huge difference!
For the Kids: Bring the Little Rascals!
- Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal: Olot Penthouse is clearly geared up for families. I appreciated their open doors for family!
Access: Safety and Security
- CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Check-in/out [express], Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Hotel chain, Non-smoking rooms, Pets allowed unavailable, Smoke alarms, Security [24-hour]: This is so important for a sense of safety.
Getting Around
- Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Taxi service, Valet parking: They have you covered no matter how you want to get around.
Available in All Rooms: The Nitty-Gritty
Here's the laundry list of what you can expect in your room:
- Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens:
- The bed was unbelievably comfortable. Seriously, I slept like a baby. I might actually buy the same mattress.
- The blackout curtains were a lifesaver. I was up to my eyeballs in jetlag.
- Coffee/tea maker was GREAT.
- The refrigerator was useful for keeping my drinks cold.
- They even remembered to give you free bottled water.
- The TV had a good selection of channels to enjoy.
**The Little Imperfections (
Escape to Paradise: Your Private Azzuro Villa in Crete Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because you're about to get a travel itinerary that's less a meticulously planned Swiss watch and more… well, me after two glasses of wine and a questionable tapas platter. We're going to Olot, Spain, baby! And, specifically, to the Penthouse Apartment in Olot. Fancy, huh? Hopefully, it's got a decent balcony because I'm already picturing myself dramatically staring at the Volcanic Zone Natural Park with a glass of something red.
Olot Adventure: Operation "Don't Mess it Up (But Let's Be Real, I Probably Will)"
Day 1: Arrival and Existential Terrace Contemplation (aka, Get My Bearings)
- 9:00 AM (give or take an hour): Arrive at Barcelona Airport (BCN). Flight's supposed to land at 9, but you know how it goes. Pray the baggage carousel doesn't decide to have a conniption. Seriously, I always feel like I'm in a slapstick comedy when I'm waiting for my suitcase. Crossing my fingers, my backpack somehow made it, too.
- 10:00 AM (ish): Taxi to Estacio del Nord Barcelona (Train Station) – Try not to get ripped off. Google Maps is my sword and shield, but I’m also prone to the "Oooh, shiny!" distractions.
- 12:00 PM (or when the train actually LEAVES): Train to Olot. Read a book, maybe judge my fellow passengers (quietly, of course), and try to look sophisticated. I’ll probably fail. I’m picturing the train scene from "Before Sunrise," but instead of Ethan Hawke, it's me, staring blankly at a cheese sandwich.
- 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Arrive Olot. Cab to the Penthouse. Fingers crossed for an elevator. The stairs…well, are a non-starter. Especially after the train sandwich. Check-in, and marvel at the view. Seriously, I need a view. Otherwise, I might just burst. Unpack (mostly).
- 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the apartment. Locate the balcony. Locate the wine. Locate the snacks. Maybe the cheese sandwich, too.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Existential Terrace Contemplation (aka, sitting on the balcony, gazing at the majestic Pyrenees Mountains like a world-weary philosopher, while simultaneously devouring said snacks. Cue a random thought: "I should start a blog. Maybe. Probably not.")
- 7:00 PM: Find a bodega (local wine bar) and order some tapas. Ask for recommendations. Embrace the language barrier (or lack thereof). Probably embarrass myself trying to speak Spanish. Order some patatas bravas. Patatas Bravas!!! They're my weakness.
- 8:30 PM: Wander back to the apartment. Crash. Exhausted but happy. The first day is always the most overwhelming… hopefully tomorrow will be better.
Day 2: Volcanic Wonders and Questionable Ice Cream (aka, Nature and Noms… Possibly Disaster)
- 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Wake up, eat breakfast in the apartment (hopefully the coffee is decent), and prepare for… the Volcanic Zone Natural Park! This is where I get to pretend I'm an intrepid explorer.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Walk to La Fageda d’en Jordà (the beech forest). Hike! Get lost in the beauty. Maybe take some artsy photos (that will inevitably end up blurry.) Breathe in the clean air. Try not to trip over any roots. My coordination is, at best, mediocre. Hope for good weather, but if there is rain, I am sure to get cold.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Pack a lunch! or grab a sandwich back in town, whatever is better.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the volcanic landscape. Maybe visit Volca de Santa Margarida and climb to the top for views. Try not to be too smug about the views. I fail, don't tell anyone.
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Back to town. ICE CREAM TIME! Find the best damn ice cream shop in Olot. I’m talking serious research here. Taste EVERYTHING. Report back. If the ice cream is bad, I will hold a personal vendetta.
- 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Rest at the apartment.
- 7:00 PM: Look for what to eat on Tripadvisor! Get some recommendations… This is all the time I'll spend looking for dinner, or I could just stumble upon something.
Day 3: Culture, Cobblestones, and Possibly More Wine (aka, Arts, Ambiance, and the Aftermath)
- 9:00 AM: Wake up, and curse the existential dread.
- 10:00 AM: Visit the Museu de la Garrotxa. Absorb some art. Pretend to understand what I'm looking at. Marvel at the history etc. I'm not a big museum person, but I really do try.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Wander through the old town. Get lost on purpose. Discover hidden squares. Take a million photos of cute little shops and the charming architecture.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch. Tapas again? Or something different? Maybe something I haven’t tried yet.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore more of the old town. Check out the local shops. Buy some souvenirs. Don’t spend all my money.
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: REST.
- 6:00 PM: FIND A GREAT RESTAURANT. I'm talking a place with good food and a nice atmosphere and amazing service. That will give me the energy of a thousand suns!!
- 8:00 PM: Walk home.
- 9:00 PM: Rest.
- 10:00 PM: Rest some more.
Day 4: Departure and the Bitter-Sweet Feeling (aka, Saying Goodbye… For Now?)
- 9:00 AM: Wake up. Sigh dramatically. Pack. Clean the apartment (try to leave it as I found it… mostly).
- 10:00 AM: Last balcony session. Soak it up. Breathe in the mountains one last time. Take a picture.
- 11:00 AM: Take a taxi.
- 12:00 PM (or Whenever): Take the train to Barcelona.
- 2:00 PM (or Whenever): Check-in for my flight home at Barcelona Airport (BCN). Hope I don't miss it.
- 4:00 PM (or Whenever): Fly home.
- (Later): Spend the next few weeks reminiscing about the trip, posting mediocre photos on Instagram, and desperately trying to recreate the perfect patatas bravas. Already planning my return.
Notes and Ramblings:
- Spanish: I'm a beginner. Be patient with me. I will butcher the language. A lot.
- Food: I'm open to suggestions! Especially for ice cream and tapas.
- Flexibility: This is a guideline, not a law. Things will change. I’ll probably get lost. That’s part of the fun, right?
- Mood Swings: May occur. Blame the jet lag. Or the wine. Or the sheer beauty of Olot.
- The Penthouse: Pray it lives up to the hype. I'm expecting a luxurious balcony and a seriously comfortable bed.
- Most Importantly: Have fun. Explore. Embrace the chaos. Because that's what travel is all about. And maybe, just maybe, I'll find myself. Or at least a really good ice cream flavor.
Wish me luck! (And maybe send reinforcements… with snacks.)
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Olot Penthouse: Your Dream City Apartment Awaits! (Or Does It...? Let's Find Out!)
Okay, seriously... What's *actually* the deal with this Olot Penthouse? Sounds too good to be true, right?
Alright, buckle up, because I've been staring at these brochures for *hours*. You know, the ones with the impossibly clean lines and the people who look like they haven't known a bad hair day in their entire lives? Yeah, that’s the Olot Penthouse. It *is* supposed to be a swanky, modern apartment with killer city views. They're promising the usual: sun-drenched living spaces, a gourmet kitchen, close to... well, *something*. But let's be real, sometimes "close to" actually means a fifteen-minute death march in the beating sun to grab a decent coffee.
But... here's the thing. My best friend, bless her heart, actually went to *see* one. Said the views are *actually* breathtaking. And you know her, she's not easily impressed. Picture this: She described it as "kinda… luxurious, but not in a stuffy way." (Coming from her, that's high praise. She lives in a shoebox with a cat named Captain Fluffypants.) However… she also mentioned a tiny, *tiny* scratch on the kitchen counter. Apparently, it's the size of a... well, a tiny scratch. Makes you wonder if they’re going to fix it or charge her for it. Sighs. It's an emotional rollercoaster, people!
What’s the *catch*? Because there *has* to be one. The devil is always in the details, am I right?
You're a smart cookie! The catch? Besides the potential for tiny scratches on pristine countertops? You bet there is. First, the price. Let's be blunt – it's going to make your wallet weep. Think "mortgage-sized tears." They don't exactly advertise those numbers in neon, because, frankly, it's scary.
Secondly, and something I'm personally worried about... LOCATION. They keep saying "prime location!" but where exactly? Is it PRIME for being next to a 24/7 construction site? Or PRIME to get cat called every day? Then, there’s the whole HOA thing. Ugh. HOAs. I've heard horror stories. "No blue flowerpots!" "Must mow your lawn on Tuesday!" "Absolutely no pet snakes!" (Okay, that last one might be a personal fear.) We're talking about a lifestyle change, my friends!
Oh, and I almost forgot! Apparently the 'gourmet kitchen' is *all* stainless steel. Which I'm sure looks gorgeous...until you touch it. Fingerprints. Every. Single. Time. And I make a mess. Sigh. It's a struggle, you know?
Alright, so the views are good. But is this place *actually* liveable? I'm not trying to live in a museum!
That's the million-dollar question, isn't it? From the pictures, it looks like a place designed for Instagram influencers who, frankly, I don't trust. Think minimalist aesthetic! So much white. So. Much. Sterile. And I’m basically an art attack. I’m not a fan of stark spaces. Will it feel like *home*? That's the bit that keeps me up at night.
My friend, the one with the cat, did say the layouts *felt* spacious. She went on and on about the natural light - which sounds phenomenal. Apparently, the balconies are actually usable – which is a *huge* win in my book. I'm picturing myself, there, sipping a glass of wine, looking all sophisticated whilst secretly wearing my comfiest tracksuit bottoms.
However… (and here comes the kicker), she also mentioned the lack of storage. "Where do you put *stuff*?" she quoted herself asking the sales guy. You know. The *stuff* we all accumulate? The emotional baggage? The Christmas decorations from 1998? The answer: Probably in a storage unit. An extra monthly charge. Cue more tears.
I'm picturing myself there... but what about parking? Because city parking is a nightmare, to put it mildly.
OH. GOD. Parking. This is *critical*. They *claim* to have parking. "Secure, underground parking." Sounds great, right? Usually, it's a tiny space, so tight you need to channel your inner gymnast to squeeze in and out of your car. Or even worse, it's one of *those* parking garages that are dark and creepy. I would always fear I would be murdered!
I haven’t been able to find actual info or specifics about the parking yet. All I can say is, do your homework. Ask *specific* questions. Is it assigned? How many spaces? What’s the clearance height? (Important if you – like me – sometimes drive an SUV that's basically a small tank.) Because, trust me, dealing with parking in a city will age you faster than any wrinkle cream. (And trust me, I'm already considering the wrinkle cream.)
What about the community? I don't want to live in a ghost town!
This is a tough one. High-rise apartments tend to attract a certain type of person. Ambitious people, busy people, people who are probably off doing something more interesting than me. There's the potential for a real community feel – rooftop parties, neighborhood events, maybe even a book club! Wonderful.
But then there's the flip side. Are you moving into a place where you'll be stuck in an elevator full of people who *never* look up from their phones? Are you going to be the only one waving at the grumpy old dude in the morning? Will you ever get to know your neighbors, or will you be stuck in your apartment, alone? I'm an introvert, but even *I* need a friendly face every now and then! This can be a major loneliness risk!
The brochures show smiling, diverse faces. But show you what they want you to see. Is it genuine? Is it a place where you can actually make friends? That's something you really need to suss out before you sign on the dotted line. Talk to current residents! Ask them what the *vibe* is like. Because a good community is *everything*.
Okay, let's say I'm *seriously* considering it. What should I do *before* taking the plunge?
Okay, here's the "Don't be a fool, stay in school!" advice. First, visit. Seriously. Go there. See it. Smell it. The scent of freshly baked bread probably isn't real.
Second, talk to existing residents. That's the *most* important thing. Ask the tough questions. "What's the noise level like?" "Is the management responsive?" "What's the biggest downside of living here?" Get the real dirt. (But be nice! Don'tPretoria's Hidden Gem: Rozendal Guest House - Unforgettable Stay!
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