This Resort in Arguineguin Was NOT What We Expected…

Our Honest Stay at Bull Dorado Beach & Spa in Arguineguin

When booking Bull Dorado Beach & Spa, we expected the usual relaxing Gran Canaria resort vibes—sunshine, great food, peaceful pool days, and easy beach access.

But what we got? A mix of beautiful surprises... and some frustrating disappointments.

This was one of those stays where the photos looked perfect, but reality told a very different story.

And honestly? That’s what makes travel interesting.

First Impressions: The View Was Incredible

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The moment we arrived in Arguineguin, we could see why so many travelers love this area.

Arguineguín has a laid-back charm, stunning coastline, and beautiful sunsets. The resort itself sits right near the ocean, giving some truly breathtaking views.

That part? Absolutely lived up to expectations.

Waking up to the Atlantic every morning felt amazing.

But unfortunately, that’s where the easy praise started to slow down.

The Elevator Situation Was a Disaster 😬

One of the biggest issues during our stay was the elevators.

And not just because they were slow.

They were often not working at all.

At one point, we actually got stuck inside one.

Not exactly the relaxing holiday moment we had imagined.

For a busy resort, especially one with multiple floors, unreliable elevators create major stress—especially for families, older guests, or anyone carrying luggage.

This became one of the biggest negatives of the stay.

Breakfast Buffet: Same Food Every Single Morning

Breakfast is usually one of our favorite parts of hotel stays.

But here?

It got boring fast.

Every morning felt like déjà vu.

  • Same eggs
  • Same sausages
  • Same bread
  • Same fruit
  • Same pastries

No variety. No local specialties. No surprises.

After a few days, it started to feel more like routine than vacation.

For a resort in Gran Canaria, we expected at least a little rotation or some Spanish-inspired breakfast options.

The Sunbed Problem… You Know the One

If you’ve stayed in European resorts, you already know.

The “towel reservation game.”

At Bull Dorado Beach & Spa, this was happening every single day.

Guests would place towels on sunbeds early in the morning…

…and then disappear for hours.

This made it nearly impossible to find available loungers later.

It felt especially noticeable among groups of Scandinavian travelers, who seemed to claim spots for the entire day.

This creates unnecessary tension around the pool and takes away from the relaxing atmosphere.

A resort should manage this better.

Pool Area Chaos: Not the Peaceful Escape We Wanted

The pool itself looked fantastic.

Big, clean, and with gorgeous sea views.

But the atmosphere?

Very different.

Children were constantly jumping into the main pool, splashing everywhere, and running wild.

The bigger issue wasn’t the kids.

It was the parents.

Many seemed completely uninterested in supervising.

This made it hard for anyone looking for peace, quiet, or even just a calm swim.

If you’re traveling as a couple or solo and hoping for tranquility, this could be frustrating.

The Hidden Gems Around Arguineguin Made Up for It



Thankfully, the destination itself saved the experience.

Arguineguín has plenty of charm outside the resort.

Some highlights:

1. Oceanfront Walks

The coastal promenade is beautiful, especially during sunset.

2. Local Restaurants

Much better food than the hotel buffet.

Fresh seafood, tapas, and authentic Canarian dishes.

3. Hidden Beaches

Small quiet spots perfect for escaping the crowded pool.

Sometimes the best parts of a trip happen outside the hotel walls.

This was definitely one of those times.

Was Bull Dorado Beach & Spa Worth It?

Here’s the honest breakdown:

Pros:
+Amazing ocean views
+Great location
+Clean rooms
+Beautiful pool
+Easy beach access

Cons:

-Broken elevators
-Getting stuck in lift
-Boring breakfast
-Sunbed reservation problem
-Loud pool area


Would we stay again?

Maybe—but only with lower expectations.

The location is fantastic.

But the management issues and lack of variety hold it back.

Final Verdict: Paradise or Disappointment?

The truth?

It was both.

The scenery was paradise.

The resort experience? Mixed.

If you’re planning to stay at Bull Dorado Beach & Spa, go for the views, the location, and the access to Arguineguin.

But be prepared for:

  • Elevator problems
  • Repetitive food
  • Busy pool areas
  • Sunbed drama

And maybe that’s the real beauty of travel.

Not every place is perfect.

But every place gives you a story.

And this one definitely did.

FAQs

Is Bull Dorado Beach & Spa family-friendly?

Yes, very family-focused—but not ideal for couples seeking quiet.

Does the hotel have ocean views?

Yes, and they’re one of its best features.

Is the breakfast buffet good?

It’s decent but lacks variety.

Are the elevators reliable?

Based on our stay, no.

Can you reserve sunbeds?

Guests do, but it creates problems.

Is Arguineguin worth visiting?

Absolutely. The town itself is beautiful and worth exploring.