Santos Express

Santos Express descritpion

Offering a restaurant, Santos Express is located in Mossel Bay. Free WiFi access is available in this lodge. There are BBQ facilities and a bar. Guests can socialize in the shared lounge or relax in the garden.
Other facilities offered at the Santos include a tour desk, children's playground and free offers free parking. Each room is simply equipped and offers sea views and guests are provided with towels and linen.
Guests can relax and play at Santos Beach which is 350 feet away. Mossel Bay Golf Club is a 4-minute drive away from Santos Express.

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Facilities of Santos Express

Outdoors ：BBQ Facilities | Grounds | Sun Deck

Pets ：Pets are not allowed.

Activities ：Darts | Beachfront | Karaoke | Evening Entertainment

Food & Drink ：Restaurant | Bar | Restaurant with Dining Menu | Special Diet Meals (upon request)

Internet ：Free!WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

Parking ：Free!Free public parking is available on site (reservation is not needed).

General ：Safe | Non-smoking Rooms | Designated Smoking Area

Languages Spoken ：English | Afrikaans

Reviews for Santos Express

Review 1：We did not have a bad experience, however a few things could be improved on, e.g. the fact that there was only one serving of coffee and one of tea for two people, and only one glass. The exterior of the property could use some maintenance, e.g. paint and de-rusting of screens.

Review 2：The location is fantastic, the caboose was very clean and tidy. The staff were very friendly and helpful.

Review 3：The dorm in not really suitable for young kids. I have two 5 year olds and they are very active. There were other people in the dorm and I had to hush my kids all the time to respect the others sharing the accommodation.

Review 4：The location is amazing. The staff are very professional and accommodating. I would definitely return but this time choose a different type of room as we were in the dorm.

Review 5：Staff were rude and unfriendly. The lady on reception would not call a taxi for us when we wanted to arrange a day out. She also had not looked at our request to be moved to any available doubles from 2 singles until we were stood in reception which meant this was not met which was infuriating as there were free doubles which we walked past on our way to shower! The internal lock on the room fell down and locked us out; a staff member came with some pliers which is an inappropriate tool (they should have the specific shaped key but have obviously just not bought one) and acted like it was our fault and that we were putting her out. She offered no encouragement at all that we would get back into the room - in fact she didn't care at all and looked at us as if we should know what to do! Absolutely terrible customer service! A girl a few doors down from us also said she had been locked out in the same way - the fact that they haven't resolved this issue or at least warn guests about it is unacceptable. The train is also VERY noisy, every time someone opens an outside door it SLAMS shut and there is has been no sound proofing on any of the rooms. On a moving train sound from neighbors may be drowned out but as this train is stationary additional measures need to be taken, we could hear the couple next door having sex as if we were in the room! There was no soap in any of the toilets which is absolutely disgusting as you can guarantee that the majority of guests will not remember to take there own and so the spread of germs must be rapid! The beds are also extremely uncomfortable, when I remade mine so it slopped in a way that didn't make me feel I was about to roll onto the floor the covering was torn and crumpled up, revealing the foam underneath as they are still using the original cushions! They need to buy new mattresses at LEAST if they are attempting to compete with other bnb's in the area.

Review 6：Location is good - right on the edge of a nice-ish beach although Mossel Bay is not the best and the beach looks onto a very industrial area and there is an oil rig just off the cost with tankers that are always parked up in full view.

Review 7：Very unfriendly staff, not clean toilets-better use the public! Dirty blankets, light breakfast ok, but they dont fill it up (coffe&toast)

Review 8：Top view :) Secure parking

Review 9：Breakfast is not included if you are staying in a dorm. WiFi Signal is very bad. One bathroom and one shower for 16(!) Persons.

Review 10：It's located next to the beach.

Review 11：Reception staff chewing gum while attempting to check us in.

Review 12：Found recption not friendly and helpful on arrival, seem to give foreigners behind us at check-in preference. Had to ask 3 times for towels. Service in restaurant was shocking. Does not advertise that you must pay a key deposit. No faciltate to make coffee except from restaurant.

Review 13：Special experience to sleep in an old train. The suite is georgeous and the common double rooms are nice as well. Beach is directly in front oft the window

Review 14：A few small technical problems such as light not working in shower room and rainwater pouring in through a window from a leaking gutter.

Review 15：Great location, different accommodation, interesting experience.

Review 16：We had major problems with our booking for the first night, and although something was eventually found for us (a group had checked out early) it was not at all what we had booked originally. There was no apology/condolence made- the woman at reception just tried to insist that it was my fault (actually turned out to be a booking.com problem). Also the service in the restaurant was unbelievably slow most of the time, and it even spontaneously closed by 9pm on our first night meaning we couldn't get any dinner. Again, there was no proper explanation or alternative suggested.

Review 17：The Royal suite was incredible! The location is perfect- right on a great beach in town. And of course the experience is unique! We actually slept surprisingly well in the twin room, and the Royal suite had the biggest bed ever and was very luxurious.

Review 18：The lack of air conditioning made the compartment unbearably hot and only 1 window could be opened. Details regarding the complimentary continental/ hot breakfast are unclear and what was on offer should best be given a miss.

Review 19：We stayed in the Royal Suite on New Year's Eve and appreciated the privacy, the lack of noise and the high level of security provided.

Review 20：Staff could have been a littler friendlier and more helpful (comparing this to other places we have stayed in S Africa). Restaurant was OK (nothing special).

Review 21：Fantastic location right on the beach. The Royal Suites were definitely an experience and would recommend to anyone.

Review 22：The restaurant both for dinner and breakfast. Dinner took us 30minutes or longer just to place an order and probably another 30 minutes for drinks and eventually food arrived. Desserts was an epic fail in my opinion. Ice cream was of a bad quality and running. Was told by the waitress that she had to make it herself and when I got the bill there was a double charge of one soft drink which was never rectified.

Review 23：The location and the very accommodating staff. Also the uniqueness of the hotel.

Review 24：Bed linen and bath towels were very worn and should be replaced. One of the wooden window shutters did not work in suite A

Review 25：The location is superb and the accommodation in an old railway carriage was unique. Being on the beach yopur view is uninterrupted and the sound of the sea is magic when falling asleep. Breakfast was acceptable.

Review 26：No plugs in room for hairdryer. You are at the sea and woman do need this facility. The current plug facility in toilet insufisient and no mirror to assist.

Review 27：The location was excellent.

Review 28：Unfortunately the beds were very uncomfortable, we didn't expect them to be plush but thought they'd be half decent. There were people leaving between 6am and 7am and because the train is old it was very noisy.

Review 29：Great location! Fun to stay in a train. It is across a road from the beach rather than on the beach.

Review 30：No plugs in wash basins. Our cabin 37 did not have a blind on one window.

Review 31：View; Security; Quietness; Food; close to town centre and tourist attractions, Friendliness of reception staff and waiters.

Review 32：My wife found the bed very hard and uncomfortable.

Review 33：I liked the whole nostalgic concept, and the location was also excllent. The decor in the dining room was imaginative and appropriate.

Review 34：Early morning around 8 am , they started grinding and drilling inside the cabin, doing major repairs or modifications, 8 AM. Then when I went to complain and ask what is going on the woman at the front ignored me and then she was utterly rude.

Review 35：Great Honeymoon suite - can't get anything better for that money! The Luxury coaches are bit overprized in comparison, we stayed there the second night...

Review 36：All the windows must be closed at night, and it can get quite hot. Towels were not provided in our room. Poor food at the restaurant (and one offish waitress), but the bar is cool.

Review 37：The train carriages are nice and the rooms were clean. Security guard at night. Great location.

Review 38：Loud partying in neighbouring coach throughout the night until 6.30 am. I had no sleep after a long tired work day. In spite of its great value and friendly staff, I will not return as a result - unless noise levels are managed.

Review 39：The location, restaurant and staff friendliness.

Review 40：Beds are quite short, which isn't too comfortable for tall people. Also our room was next to the shower, very noisy unfortunately. (Some people started taking showers at 6.30 AM.)

Review 41：Very close to the beach: great!

Review 42：Not really a bad experience, but the towels provided in the Royal Suite were definitely past their sell by date. New fresh white towels are needed.

Review 43：The novelty of sleeping in a Rovos Rail carriage. The proximity to a Blue Flag beach and all the places of interest - museums etc.

Review 44：The food in the restaurant was not great given the setting needs to improve ...... Also no blind on my window so needed a bit of DIY

Review 45：Novelty of staying on a train with a great location overlooking the beach/sea...... Some comments have said cramped but it is a train carriage and good value.

Review 46：we stayed in the victorian carriages which were fun. decking and right on the beach went to sleep and woke up to the see lapping. Nice bar and restaurant area

Review 47：Location of the train is great BUT there was really big noise because of sea waves. But you have to expect it - is really close to the sea.:)

Review 48：The King Suite was amazing. We had a small issue with wash basin but it doesn´t matter.

Review 49：I booked this accommodation for my uncle and his daughter. They are train enthusiasts and loved the novelty of living on a train. And the close proximity to the beach. And the free wi-fi. Breakfasts were also delicious according to them.

Review 50：For a place that cool the food was not on the same level. Not terrible just not on par.

Review 51：Felt swept away in time ;) It was awesome as we stayed in a Royal Sweet.

Review 52：Not the best food, but when your hungry anything is good.

Review 53：Right on the beach! Easy to navigate around in Mossel Bay and a Baz Bus stop. Good drinks at the bar and staff willing to help plan any excursions in the area. Kinda cool to stay in old train cars. Living quarters are small and tight, but your on the beach!

Review 54：Room wasn't clean. Staff responded quickly to improve the situation.

Review 55：Authentic details, unique place to stay. Straight at the beach. Very friendly staff.

Review 56：As it's an old train there isn't really any sound proofing so if you're a light sleeper I wouldn't stay more than 1 night.

Review 57：Great location on the sea front and really quirky to be sleeping in a train. Really close to everything you need in Mossel Bay.

Review 58：Beds are a little short for tall people, but that comes with the natureof a train stay. Food in restaurant average.

Review 59：Awesome idea and location. Definitely an accommodation wewon't forget.

Review 60：Annoyed by the sliding of the doors by others occupants at all hours of the night, in adjoining rooms that came home way after midnight. Didn't get a good nights sleep.

Review 61：I liked the value for money and the simplicity of processing and check out.

Review 62：It wasn't clean and it was unconfortable.

Review 63：It was fun to sleep in a train. When you wake up and you open the window you see and hear the ocean. It's nice for one night. I stayed there for two... That was already to much.

Review 64：My room had only an international socket and I therefore couldn't charge my cellphone or laptop.

Review 65：It was a great location, and the staff were very friendly.

Review 66：The smell of leaking gas in the train carriage, highly uncomfortable beds; patrons smoking in the carriage (which is probably the cause of your 2007 burnout.) Our charger portal didn't work. We left at 4am having had hrs tossing and turning told ADT and the security guard about it. ADT logged the call and incident and confirmed the heavy gas smell. We shall never stay there or recommend it ever as a place to stay.

Review 67：Great pub food, great location, absolutely amazing staff!

Review 68：Only one complaint....I couldn't stay longer :( will definitely consider a second stay next time in the area.

Review 69：Quaint, unique beachside accommodation. Took me back to my youth traveling by train. And what a view! Cannot get a better deal with that view. Staff were pleasant and the "room" was clean.

Review 70：Smoke from bar irritating. Sliding door between bar and dining room left open by waiters when serving customers in dining room

Review 71：Located right on Santos Beach; beautiful view over bay with sunrise; slept with the sound of the waves in my ears; remember this is an old train converted into a B&B; comfort in line with price and type of accommodation. Backpackers type of accommodation. Will definitely stay here again

Review 72：Rooms very cramped but ok if you're just looking for a place to lay down

Review 73：Unique experience in an actual train Great breakfast Literally on the beach Good value for money

Review 74：It was not bad, but cleaning needs attention in the train as well as the outside area of which the furniture of the restaurant needs paint badly.

Review 75：Location is good and staff was also good.

Review 76：We booked the royal suite expecting it to be a little better than the basic rooms.. How wrong we were ...Shower leaked and flooded bathroom (which was tiny and in need of a refit). Sheets towels and duvet covers were very worn and grey.. Need to be replaced. Restaurant was dreadful. Service even worse. Would not recommend this accommodation.. . And to top it off got some nasty bites in bed. ( only ones during our 3 week stay )

Review 77：The dorm has 16 beds, but only one bathroom! There was also no kitchen to use for self-catering.

Review 78：The location of the lodge is perfect! The restaurant is also really good and it was just a nice experience to sleep in a train!

Review 79：Leider gab es keine Doppelbetten. Und die Wände des Zugs sind extrem dünn: Wir haben unseren Nachbarn sehr schnarchen gehört und die Leute auf dem Gang haben uns morgens geweckt. Also man braucht Ohropax. Unfortunately there were no doublebeds. And the walls of the train are extremely thin: We heard our neighbor snoring all the time and the people on the floor woke is up in the morning. So you need ohropax.

Review 80：Die Lage am Strand und das Wellenrauschen waren super. Die Idee mit dem Zug ist wirklich toll, es war ein schönes Erlebnis. Betten waren gemütlich aber etwas abschüssig zum Strand hin. The location at the beach and the wave sound were really great. The idea of the train is perfect, it was a great experience. The beds were comfortable, although a little sloping to the beach.

Review 81：The noice of a group of young kids. Noice after 23:00 is not acceptable. Maybe groups should not have access to other parts where people wants to sleep. Running in corridors etc

Review 82：Sound of the sea

Review 83：These things are not a complaint, but a note to people considering staying here. Be sure you know what to expect: this is a no frills place. The bathroom is down the corridor (a skinny one!), and you must use stairs, as well as walk outside a bit in order to get to the area where you can access wifi/breakfast. It can be very noisy and active, so pack your earplugs if you use them!

Review 84：To stay where we are overlooking a lovely stretch of beach that is just a few steps from our room and be able to pretty much "park" right here, is a delight! The room includes a basic breakfast (with really good coffee!) served in the restaurant on site that is perched above the sea. The staff is friendly and very helpful, especially Reinhardt, who got us a map and then drew us walking directions to get to town.

Review 85：The bathrooms are poor. The room is tiny, but it was enough for me.

Review 86：The location is great. I woke up and looked at a beautiful beach and the sea. The restaurant and bar are great. The staff is nice and helpful. It's a unique place for a good price.

Review 87：Office manager was rude shaking her head & waving her arms NO at the poor receptionist who was trying to acccommodate us for an extra night! Creepy crawly's fell from the vents onto me whilst sleeping & I am damn sure there are bed bugs as I itched all night. They need give more details regarding type of breakfast included as it was just cereal and toast and that there is No hanging space, No T.V., etc.

Review 88：Ocean View

Review 89：Only that we could not access town through the normal beach walk up through the hill without paying. This access should be free for guests at Santos Express and can be arranged between SE and the museum.

Review 90：The proximity to the beach and the sound of the sea and sea breeze. The restaurant and staff.

Review 91：Tried to upgrade compartment for one that had a double bed, but staff wasn't helpful in that regard.

Review 92：Location, the santos is situated right on the beach. Close to all amenities. Train is kept clean on a daily basis.

Review 93：The beds were extremely uncomfortable and slanted to the side - felt like we were falling off the bed. Over and above this it was as hard as a rock!

Review 94：The location was beautiful.

Review 95：room too small, if you have more than 1 bag each there isn't space enough noisy wifi only on the common area (6 metres square of reception) you can't leave bags, or you can but in the common area breakfast not included despite the offer

Review 96：position on the beach interesting idea of train lodge

Review 97：The old world charm of the Royal Suite accommodation plus the great location right on the beach was brilliant. Friendly staff and a more than generous breakfast included in the price.

Review 98：Nothing to dislike

Review 99：I loved every minute of my stay, it was so lovely to be so close to the beach. We could hear the sea all night. I have already recommended this hotel to everyone I know.

Review 100：Cabins bit too small. Hairdryer to be used in every second toilet and not in yout own cabin.

Review 101：To go to sleep with the sound of the waves in your ears and to wake up to that same peaceful sound. Looking out of your window and the first thing you smell hear and see is the sea. Wonderful and peaceful

Review 102：No soap/towels in toilets or the rooms.

Review 103：Right on the beach. Very friendly and helpful people. Quaint accommodation that will suit those on a budget.

Review 104：The payment arrangement for breakfast was a bit confusing as different accommodation seems to have different plans. A voucher system would help.

Review 105：Accommodation clean and comfortable. Breakfast good. Situation next to the beach fantastic.

Review 106：Treatment from the staff was very bad, they are racist and have no respect for the clients. They are disorganised. We had to cut our stay due to the bad treatment that were subjected to.

Review 107：Close to the beach. They have private showers. Braai areas are closer there and restaurant. security is not bad however it can be improved.

Review 108：Our reservation for two rooms got mixed up somehow (not their fault) and there was only one room available. They went out of their way to find another room in town for us during this very busy time of the year. Thanks

Review 109：You can't get closer to the beach unless you were camping on it. The view is spectacular. Service is great, price is fantastic, and the shower was amazing! Best value stay on the Garden Route.

Review 110：The lack of a kettle/boiling water and a lounge or social area where you can visit with friends or during rainy weather

Review 111：The location and atmosphere makes you feel like you are on an excotic island somewhere abroad. The warm, caring and friendly staff who make you feel at home and accomodate you in anyway possible.

Review 112：Booking got messed, my 70 year old mother and I were crammed into a bunk bed cubicle Unisex toilets Continental breakfast - fruits were not fresh (bruised bananas and wrinkled apples), toaster for bread not working Staff not really friendly Only lower bunk was comfortable, the upper bunk was a climb and uncomfortable. I woke up with a migraine Definitely not for mature adults looking for comfort, I have stayed in better places in Camps Bay that cost less

Review 113：Close to the beach Fantastic view

Review 114：Youngster noise - running in the passage and banging on the doors. yes it was holiday time.

Review 115：I made my booking in advance. requested and payed for blueberry muffins with our breakfast, and did they staff deliver. Thank you will use the accommodation again and again.

Review 116：We could have a kettle to make coffee in the compartment. A fridge for refreshments would also be an advantage.

Review 117：Location is perfect. All basic facilities are available. Old world experience.

Review 118：Is located in a very popular beach,also they just our room without advise us before. Has no HVAC. If you are looking for something funny you will find there but confortable and private definetly NOT.

Review 119：The bed and the bathroom is good. ( Only)

Review 120：Being an elderly couple, we worried about space, comfort, securityetc. But we took the chance and had a really wonderful 4- dayexperience. What you see on there photos is really what you get!! Veryfriendly and helpful staff,, Food Restaurant excellent. Breakfastperhaps a little skimpy.

Review 121：Could do with a small refrigerator, there is space for it under the coffee table.

Review 122：Stayed in Royal suite B - seaview from bed right through to bathroom. Right on the beach, great for kids. Nice balcony with stunning views.

Review 123：Cramped bed but it's a train compartment so that is the part of the deal.

Review 124：Proximity to beach, Helpful staff especially the supervising lady which was on night duty

Review 125：Booked a train compartment for the children and the beds are very uncomfortable for older children. The noise level is very high.

Review 126：The location is excellent. The suites are very nice

Review 127：1.Coffee machine did not work. 2.Power was out for a whole night and only fixed after 7 the next morning. Could not find office on the phone although it was before 24:00

Review 128：Security help to get hold of service person to fix our problem.

Review 129：Funny smell at times, think it may originate from wet carpets?

Review 130：This gem has no fuss, and offers the best value for money you can probably find. In addition it boasts the best location (right on a blue flag beach and in the middle of historical Mossel Bay where there's lot's to see and do).

Review 131：There was nothing to complain about.

Review 132：It suited us as it was within our budget. It was also a pleasant memory of days gone bye. The breakfast in the price was plenty.

Review 133：We were early. "No problem, a girl is working on your room right now, have a coffee on the deck." After waiting for over an hour we asked again. "No checkin before 14.00, DEAR". The bar closed at 22 hour instead of 02.00. It's just not a professional business!

Review 134：It was a nice experience in the royal suite

Review 135：(1) Intruders just climbing aboard and crossing onto / invading our 'exclusive use' deck ( Royal C) ... perhaps a lock onto the entrance gate and a NO ENTRY sign? (2) no Wif-Fi in the coach (3) the lock on the sliding door needs attention

Review 136：The ambiance and location .. right on the beach yet close to town and ameneties

Review 137：Sharing bathroom facilities

Review 138：The very friendly staff. I unfortunately cannot remember their names, but the were prepared to assist with our few requests.

Review 139：- not a lot of comfort added to the basic train flair ;) - the lights next to the bed didnt function - the door didnt slide properly = it will need more attention to maintenance so close to the sea!!

Review 140：++ great location right next to the beach ++ unique place to spend the night + good value for money + friendly staff + clean and neat