Avenida de la Cornisa, 21, Puerto Rico, Spain | (888) 273-7116
Breathtaking views from guestroom balconies and common areas
Two-minute walk to Europa Center with restaurants and bars
Apartment-style rooms are great for large groups traveling together
Two large, sun-drenched pools with sea views, surrounded by loungers
Tasty food with enough variety to keep it interesting
Kid-friendly features include a playground and basketball court
Free Wi-Fi and on-site computer station
Not enough sunbeds -- there's a daily race to claim them
The beach is a steep 20-minute walk downhill and a hard climb back up
No air-conditioning in rooms; only ceiling fans
Elevators are slow
No fitness center
Room decor is clean but bland
The Hotel Altamar is a 257-unit, mid-range apartment complex clinging to a mountainside with spectacular views of the sea and valley below. The whitewashed buildings, sunny terraces, stair-step architecture (and unlimited sangria) give the all-inclusive Altamar a laid-back, island holiday vibe, especially suited to families and large groups. Rooms, each with a big terrace, are large enough to accommodate longer stays. The bay beach is a 20-minute walk downhill, and Europa Center is a two-minute uphill climb. However, this budget property's common spaces and rooms may be clean, but could use an update; decor is minimal and stark.
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Scene
Gorgeous Bay of Amadores views, self-service bars, a Chillout Area, and people everywhere
Every window and terrace at the Hotel Altamar looks out at the spectacular Bay of Amadores, and the common areas are sun-drenched and filled with activity -- day and night. Sunbed real estate is highly coveted, with guests laying claim as soon as the pool gates open. The poolside bar offers self-serve pitchers of red and white wine, unlimited sangria, beer, and booze, with free ice cream, cookies, and cake set out in the afternoons. There is a peaceful "Chillout Area," where guests can relax and gaze at the water through a Plexiglass balcony wall that offers an endless view. The restaurant has a cluttered feel; nightly entertainment is staged in the same room, but there is an outdoor terrace for dining al fresco, which is a less chaotic option. The lobby architecture resembles that of an airport, with unflattering lighting, elevators festooned with taped-up notices, and furniture that looks a tad exhausted. There is a huge jungle-like cluster of plants that appear to be thriving indoors, but could do with some landscaping, as they appear to be taking over the long, narrow space. Still, the vibe is fun, social, and beachy, inspiring plenty of repeat business.
Location
It's 20 minutes down to the beach and two minutes up to the town
The Hotel Altamar is built into the side of a mountain with views of the Bay of Amadores and the beach, which is reached via a 20-minute walk downhill. The walk is steep, but a taxi ride back up from the beach is inexpensive. A two-minute walk gets guests to Europa Center, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. The immediate area is filled with hotels and apartment complexes, but there are no outside dining or drinking options. A car is a must for guests who want to explore the area.
Rooms
Plenty of room with huge terraces and big bathrooms, but no air- conditioning
Rooms at the Hotel Altamar are spacious and clean but need a style update. Bedrooms are furnished with blue-stained wood, dated textiles, and small watercolor prints. There are ceiling fans but no air- conditioning, although guests can rent small cooling units. Wi-Fi is free. Smoking and nonsmoking apartments are available; nonsmokers, be sure to specify, as some rooms reek of cigarettes. Kitchens are roomy with full refrigerators, microwaves, coffeemakers, and two-burner stoves. Bathrooms are huge and spotless, with walk-in shower units -- but they, too, could use updates. The apartment terraces are fantastic, with sunbeds and views that seem to go on forever. Families in particular appreciate the size and low-key style (or lack thereof).
Features
Two pools, a game room, nightly entertainment, and a kids' club all help to attract families.
The Hotel Altamar offers tons of activity options for guests of all ages, including two year-round pools with water polo and other games. The kids club includes a playground and supervised activities, so parents can relax on their own. The game room includes pool tables and an array of video games, and there is ping- pong, basketball, and a soccer pitch. Bingo, quizzes, music, and more happen at night in the restaurant, which becomes the lounge and main social scene.
