HSM Lago Park

With its small lobby of varnished wood, tired-looking seating, and dated decor, it's hard to not feel underwhelmed upon entry to the Apartamentos HSM Lago Park. A welcome drink of chilled Cava or juice helps take your mind off the lackluster surrounds (which are also earmarked for renovation in 2018). Just off the lobby to one side is a lounge and the other a bar, both in the similar outdated '70s styling of the reception area. Interiors are not all stuck in the past, however, with a fresh dining area that continues from the bar. Hallways are also bright and modern across the two apartment blocks that make up the complex (the second being a short walk from the main building, and both having their own pool terrace). This affordable all-apartment property tends to draw an even mix of couples and families with kids, as well as cycling enthusiasts, and mostly of German, British, and Scandinavian origin. 

The hotel is located just off the main road in the relatively sedate resort of Playa de Muro, just south of the larger and more popular Port d'Alcudia and halfway along its huge sweeping bay. There are no shortage of mini-markets, restaurants, and tourist shops within a short stroll, and it's a three-minute walk to a lovely, long stretch of sandy beach. The Alcudia Nature Reserve -- protected wetlands perfect for bird-watching -- is a few minutes in a cab or regular buses run along the main road. In the other direction, the family-friendly Hidropark is a 10-minute drive away, or the scenic cobbled streets of Alcudia town are about 15 minutes. Situated at the opposite end of the island, however, the capital of Palma and its Palma de Mallorca Airport are up to an hour by road.

The two blocks house 135 studio and one-bedroom apartments, all renovated between 2015 and 2017. Interiors are bright, contemporary, and clean, with simple modern furniture, tiled floors, and a cool palette of white and gray. Studios sleep two adults, while one-bedroom apartments sleep up to four. All units open to balconies or terraces overlooking the street or pool areas -- a few feature partial sea views (across the main road), though these can be prone to traffic noise. Guests have also reported noise from a neighboring bar that is open until midnight. Living rooms include sofa beds, dining areas, and modern kitchenettes with microwaves, fridges, electric hobs, kettles, and coffeemakers. TVs are 32-inch flat-screens, though the only English-speaking channels are news. Safes are a mix of key- and digital-style, and incur a fee, though Wi-Fi is free of charge throughout. Bathrooms feel particularly polished and clean, as all have walk-in showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and sachet toiletries, but towels are a little thin.

Updated in 2016, the hotel's dining room is modern and bright and extends to a covered conservatory, though no outside terrace. Breakfasts are a good selection of hot and cold dishes, with a live station offering freshly cooked eggs, plus the usual trays of bacon, beans, and sausages. Buffet dinners are also served with a choice of meat or fish cooked fresh and included in the optional half-board rate (room-only and bed-and-breakfast plans are also available). Lunch is offered at the poolside snack bar covering the likes of pizza, sandwiches, and pasta, as well as a good range of cocktails. Each apartment block has its own swimming pool, both large enough for a modest swim and with separate sections for tots. A kids' club opens over the summer season, and for most of the year the animation program includes the likes of Zumba, yoga, aerobics, water polo, and mini-golf. Cyclists have use of a secure bike garage with CCTV, showers, tools, drinking water, and bicycle wash. There are also a coin-operated laundry room and a small, slightly dated gym. Those arriving by car will find on-site parking very limited.