Rebecca Sandor
This is our 4th JOIA we've visited, however I'm finding this review is a bit tricky to write—it really depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation, and whether you lean more American or European in your travel style.
If you are looking to spend a small fortune to nap by a pretty pool, this place might be for you.
Starting with the pros: The hotel is beautiful and in a fantastic location. We booked the second-lowest room tier and were pleasantly surprised—it was spacious, clean, and included a walk-in closet, a huge bathroom, a living room, and a massive porch with two loungers and a sofa. The pool and grounds are stunning, full of greenery and flowers, perched on a hillside with views of the beach and coastal mountains.
Just below the hotel is a small shopping center with restaurants that lead to a boardwalk filled with shops and eateries. It’s lively, walkable, and feels very safe.
As for the OK parts: The food was decent. Both breakfast and dinner buffets offered a variety of options, so you’ll find something you like. Breakfast was pretty consistent, while dinner changed nightly with themed menus. Some nights were amazingly delicious while others were okay. Dinner also included pre-plated dishes served at your table (depending on your room type), which was a nice touch. The staff were friendly and helpful, though not as pampering as what you might find at Caribbean Iberostars (maybe due to American vs. European vacation vibes). For example, if you want to sunbathe on the lawn, you’ll need to find a spot and ask someone to bring out lounge chairs—they were not already set up. Another example is we poured our own drinks at breakfast and dinner. This does not both us and we are capable to do that, but it was something that we noticed as with visiting other Iberostars, their staff jokingly scolds you for that because “you’re on vacation!” and are supposed to relax.
Lastly the cons - The beach. To start, the beach is beautiful.
There are two beaches nearby: one with brown sand and one with black volcanic sand. Both are soft, clean, and have calm, clear waves. But the water is freezing, so save your swim for the hottest part of the day. The downside? The beach is public.
El Mirador doesn’t have a private section for guests, so if you want to lounge, you’ll need to rent chairs and umbrellas.
The price is another con. Your booking includes the room, hotel amenities (pool, small gym, lobby, game room), and breakfast. You can upgrade to half-board for dinner, but drinks aren’t included—even bottled water, which is free in your room but not at dinner. This means you need to pay for lunch and any drinks you have through the day which can add up. Regarding the clientele, if you're looking for a slightly lively crowd, this may not be your scene. But if you enjoy peace, quiet, and sleeping, you’ll fit right in.
Hassania M
An unforgettable stay – Flawless service & 100% happiness!
What can I say about this stunning hotel? I’ve stayed in several 5-star hotels, but this one truly stands above the rest.
The service, the hospitality, the kindness of the staff… every detail was perfectly thought out. Every gesture and thoughtful touch left me genuinely impressed. It was my very first solo trip, and I was a bit hesitant at first, but the warmth and care of the team made me forget I was on my own. I felt surrounded, supported, and completely at ease.
Thank you for Antonio of the reception to feeling me at the first moment arriving safe and well welcomed.
Special thanks Leticia, whose kindness and attentiveness truly lit up my stay.
And a heartfelt thank you to Roma & Stefano, always cheerful and full of positive energy. Their smile and thoughtful gestures made every moments even more enjoyable — they knew exactly what I wanted without me even asking. A real delight!
The breakfast buffet is an experience in itself: generous, delicious, and beautifully varied — with options even for those watching their diet. 100% pleasure, 0 guilt. Hands down the best I’ve ever had.
The room was spacious, comfortable, and well equipped — always tidy and beautifully presented, with delicate touches like chocolates and small daily attentions. Huge thanks to the housekeeping team for their meticulous work and consistency.
Also a big thank you to the pool staff, always smiling and attentive.
And the list of compliments could go on and on… Thankful for all the staff I forgot to mention.
I’ll definitely be back — next time with my husband, to whom I’ve enthusiastically shared every little detail.
A huge thank you for 7 perfect days.
See you again very soon!
Marion & Phillip Owens
An unsurpassable 5 star experience from the moment you arrive. Whilst the location, rooms, facilities and decor are all excellent the most important star of all is the staff - ranging from quietly efficient gardeners and cleaners to everyone involved with a very warm reception, to the great poolside team and of course the brilliant team of people in the bar and restaurants - all led by the lovely assistant director Tiziana. No wonder so many customers keep returning time and time again.
Michael Fisher
Lovely 9 night stay with friendly and helpful staff. Rooms and grounds were kept clean and our sea facing room had mainly been renovated. The only disappointment was the bathroom which badly needed updating (when did you last see an ashtray next to the toilet?) Breakfasts were superb with excellent choices of cold meats, fruit and hot food and even a proper toaster. Plenty of sun beds to go around and mattresses, covers and towels were supplied. We were only B&B and there were plenty of excellent restaurants within about 1km in either direction. One highlight of our stay was the violin playing at breakfast by Dorina Gavrilita.
Rhona Waddell
Had another wonderful stay at this fabulous hotel. It continues to exceed my expectations in every way. The staff are genuinely pleased to see you and welcome you like family. I love the adults only vibe - it’s so peaceful and relaxing. Breakfast is amazing - so much choice. The pool area is lovely and spacious and Orlando welcomes you with a smile every day. I missed the lovely Tiziana this time as she was on her own vacation but look forward to seeing her next time. Special mention to Roma in the bar - his cocktails were amazing and a highlight of my day. I can’t wait to return - it’s my happy place.
My Booking
