Don’t be fooled by the name, this is no ‘hostel’. This retreat, dating back to the 1920s, has hosted a plethora of Hollywood’s icons as well as real-life royalty. Hostal de la Gavina sits on an area of land jutting out toward the sea. This provides panoramic views from most of its sides, with an excellent beach just five minutes on foot via a coastal path. The interiors here follow a palatial traditional style with gleaming parquet flooring, silk wallpaper, Grecian pillars, flamboyant flower arrangements, marble surfaces and antique furniture. Three restaurants (the main dining room offers piano accompaniment at dinner) a spa and a ship-themed bar are available for guests’ enjoyment. Outside there’s a large, glamorous pool terrace, a kids’ play area and tennis courts.