Sunborn Gibraltar Hotel Review
Staying in a hotel with a rooftop can be a real bonus, staying with one on a yacht … now that’s different! This review focuses on my stay at Sunborn Gibraltar and whether the hotel rooftop really deck adds value. I include details of what the hotel stay was really like to help you decide if this hotel is right for your stay in Gibraltar.
⭐ Quick verdict
Best for: Plane and yacht lovers
Not ideal if: you love super fancy 5 star
Rooftop value: Good
Who this hotel is for: Families, Cruisers, Mini breakers
Overall feel: A bit tired and dated but very novel.
🛏 Room Details
Type: King twin
Size: Small – medium
Storage: OK
Bed: Not comfy
Table: Desk
Blackout curtains:
Air con: Not needed
View: Great – the runway!
Balcony: No / Juliet
Mirrors: Yes
Water in room: No
Mini bar: Yes
Any extras?: No
🛁 Bathroom
Style: Modern
Shower pressure: Good
Hairdryer Effectivness: Amazing
Shampoo & conditioner: Yes
Bath robe: Yes
🏨 Hotel Logistics & Practical Info
Distance from airport: 20 mins walk across the run way!
Location: At the marina (Google Map)
Getting around: Uber or walking
Hotel size: Big 190 approx room
Communication prior to arrival: Good
Welcome drink: No
Local Supermarket: Yes plenty!
Staff: Really helpful
🏖️🏋🏼♀️ Workout, Rest and Play
Gym: Yes
Spa: Yes
Pool: Yes – rooftop deck more plunge
Beach: No
🍽️ Restaurant & Bar
Breakfast: Yes – good choice though hosted in the man restaurant which is a little conference room vibe
Bubbles at Breakfast: No
Bar / restaurant: Indoor on deck bar is cute, restaurant as said a little stiff unless seated outside aka rooftop deck
🥂 Rooftop
Size: Medium
View: The Gibraltar Rock, Runway and Marina or ocean Village
Bar: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
Pool: Yes – giant plunge or small. More for dipping in than swimming in!
Shade: Yes
Best for: Afternoon – sunset drinks
Read my full rooftop bar & restaurant review
💰 Cost & Value
Cost: Good value
Worth the money?: Yes
Would I stay again? Yes but honestly only until Gibraltar opens a better hotel
✍️ Sunborn Hotel Gibraltar Review Summary
This was the most spontaneous hotel (and flight) I’ve ever booked, just 24 hours before arrival. It was easy as there was so little choice in this corner of the Med. Even those that were available options, including the Sunborn, felt a little tired and dated. But I chose it for the rooftop deck and novelty factor.
On arrival we were greeted warmly and it really did feel like you were on a ship. However the room was slightly disappointing and could definitely use a refresh. I’ve since had friends stay in 2025 and one confirmed it still felt dated, while another was in a newer refurbished room and loved it. So if that matters to you, it’s worth requesting an updated room when booking.
What I did love about the room was that it overlooked the airport runway. The novelty of watching the planes land and take off never wore off. Though you don’t actually need a runway facing room for this, as the rooftop deck offers the same view. And this is where the hotel really shines. It may be a miniature version of a ship’s pool deck, but it’s perfect for those who love a lazy day lounging with cocktails, or returning late afternoon for a cooling dip and sunset sangria. With the giant Gibraltar rock towering down this was worth staying for. That said can go for a drink if you were staying somewhere else.
The hotel did not disappoint delivering its cruise-ship theme, from signage to décor and even the on-board casino, but without the rooftop, would I book again? Yes but only until a better option arrives in Gibraltar or it has a refurbishment and =,
📝 Admin
Date Stayed: Sept 2020
Information check/updated: 2026
Hotel website: Sunborn Gibraltar Hotel
Hotel Rooftop Booking Tip
Some hotels close their rooftops for private events, seasonal schedules, or refurbishment. This isn’t always communicated to guests in advance. If the rooftop bar or pool or restaurant is vital for your stay, do contact the hotel to confirm opening times during your potential stay.
