At first we had a bit of a problem because our room wasn't ready when we arrived even though it was well after the check in time. But they got it sorted fairly quickly with apologies so it was alright in the end. The rooms are nice. Slightly dated, but very clean and well maintained. The buffet restaurant is reasonably modern and the food is good, although not much choice so you find yourself eating the same thing a lot. The entertainment is brilliant for young children by the pool. Leo was the entertainer when we stayed here and he was excellent. Same with the evening entertainment. The kids are spoilt for choice but the adult entertainment is neglected and isn't that great.
The location is good, a few minutes from the beach and a 10 minute walk down the promenade links you on to lots of shops and bars and restaurants.

Stayed here for 3 nights over New Year. Hotel couldn't be faulted, All staff were friendly and helpful, food was good and The New Years Eve Gala Buffet excellent. Had a room with bedroom and living room, the only thing I didn't like was the television was in the bedroom, but then you dont go on holiday to watch television. Bus stop right outside hotel and railway station 10 minutes walk away. This hotel is at the end of Torremelinos about 20 minutes walk to La Carihuela beach, nice walk along seafront promenade.

My husband and I have stayed at the Costa Lago 5 times, 4 over Christmas. We like the location and the quiet atmosphere. Playamar as opposed to Torremolinos is very pleasant. We have always found the staff helpful and friendly. They remember us year to year. The food is excellent and the hotel is very clean. The entertainment over Christmas was good especially the flamenco. There are several English speaking TV channels. We found fellow guests approachable and willing to chat and form friendships. It is a good family hotel.The transport links are excellent and there are so many places to visit eg Cordoba, Benalmadena, Mijas and Ronda. We went to Cordoba by train and came back by bus. Both journeys were comfortable. The motorway was very smooth. We intend to stay at the the hotel again.

Arrived 22nd December having spent 2 nights at the Belplaya down the road. We were there as a party of four including my elderly mum. Received a glass of cava on arrival and check-in was quick and efficient. The food was lovely and always plenty of choice .As previously written the Christmas and New Year's eve Gala dinners were fantastic.We don't stay in the hotel at night so I cannot comment on the entertainment. We also didn't use the bar much so this was perhaps why we were ignored at least twice while the waiters served people who came after us .(Not the British I must add ) These people knew we were first but ordered anyway. It is not my job to teach people manners so I let it go. I was not however prepared to let people push my mum out of the way and told them so. After that no problem .. If I had to choose between the two Riu hotels I would definately choose the Costa Lago,