Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas

A grand sweeping facade, crisp white-liveried doorman, and vintage wrought-iron streetlights set the scene for an elegant stay at Riu Palace Maspalomas. However, while inside there are pretty glass chandeliers and a black piano, the red patterned rugs and chairs, granite tile floors in three shades, and traditional wood elements give the space a dated, old-fashioned vibe. Built in 1970, the hotel is one of the older properties on the island; in this case, its age works in its favor as nowadays a hotel wouldn't be allowed so close to the protected natural site of the Maspalomas Dunes. Though the property isn't adult-only, the vibe is distinctly grown-up with the vast majority of guests being a mixture of straight and gay couples wanting little more than to relax in the sun.

Set on the south end of popular resort area Playa del Ingles, right on the edge of the Maspalomas Dunes, the hotel has one of the most enviable positions on the island. Although not the liveliest part of town, there are bars and restaurants within walking distance, including the quirky Cita shopping and dining center just seven minutes away. A footpath cuts right through the resort and connects directly to the dunes, from which it's about a 10-minute walk to a lovely long stretch of beach. Gran Canaria Airport is 25-30 minutes away by car. The hotel has very limited free parking spaces, but there's ample free street parking.

All of the hotel's 368 rooms continue in the traditional fashion of the lobby, featuring wood furnishings with carved details, patterned carpets and drapery, and light pink or blue blankets. Depending on taste this can feel either classic or dowdy, though some rooms do feel undeniably tired in parts. Glass doors slide open to furnished balconies or terraces, most with at least partial views of the spectacular dunes and sea beyond (though a few rooms have no view at all). Amenities are decent, including free and reliable Wi-Fi, minibars, safes, and small flat-screen TVs with some English-speaking channels. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos and bidets, but are generally a bit of a letdown with old wall-mounted hairdryers, basic toiletries, and signs of wear and tear. 

Guests at Riu Palace Maspalomas can either be on a bed-and-breakfast plan or a half-board option that includes breakfast and dinner. The hotel's main restaurant serves an excellent buffet breakfast alongside sparkling wine (Cava) and it can be taken alfresco on the pretty poolside terrace. A decent buffet-style dinner is served in two sittings and there are twice-weekly themed meals. Alternatively, the Krystal Fusion restaurant offers an a la carte menu (which is surprisingly included in half-board plans), though many guests actually prefer the buffet eatery. There are also a lounge bar with evening entertainment and a canopied poolside bar -- which can be prone to sand from the dunes when it's windy. 

There are two outdoor swimming pools, one with an adjacent whirlpool tub and the other with integrated loungers and hydro-massage jets. Terraces around the main pool are spacious and noise tends to be kept to a minimum. A spa has whirlpool tubs, a Turkish-style steam room, and a sauna, as well as a menu of massage treatments. Sports facilities include two floodlit tennis courts and a modern gym, though beyond a small playground there's not much for kids. Additionally, Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.