Apartamentos Siesta I

One of three "Siesta" buildings constructed in the '70s, Apartamentos Siesta I is typical of the era, with eight balconied floors forming an L-shape overlooking the pool area and some pleasant shaded gardens. Stepping inside, the lobby has a curious mix of modern furnishings, antique-looking etchings, and ancient Greek-themed accents taking the form of various faux-marble busts, statues, and a (poorly painted) mural. The main things that distinguishes this hotel from most others on the island is that each of its 300-plus apartments is privately owned -- with just over half of these rented out to tourists. Lots of (mostly British) guests being repeat customers means a more friendly and familiar atmosphere than you'll find in most hotels. Additionally, it's a largely family-run business, so it lacks the corporate feel of many chain properties of similar ilk. While it might be a little short of polish in places, it's generally well-maintained and -- despite the classical decorative touches -- relaxed, informal, and fun. 

The hotel is located just off a motorway on the edge of popular resort of Port d'Alcudia, set on the northeastern coast of Majorca. It's at the end of "Dollar Street" -- the nickname for Pere Mas i Reus -- one of the town's busier strips of nightlife lined with bars, karaoke joints, and lively restaurants. The main downside of the location is the distance to Alcudia's long sandy beach, a 15-minute walk away (though there's a free shuttle bus several times a day). Built on reclaimed wetland, the surrounding area is characterized by canals and man-made lakes, so mosquitos can be an issue and there is the occasional waft from a nearby water-treatment plant. More positively, there's a water park five minutes' drive away, while Alcudia's pretty old town is a 10-minute drive. Easy motorway access means Palma de Mallorca, the island's capital (and home to the main airport) is 35 to 40 minutes by car.

There are 166 apartments available for rent within the property, ranging from studios to one- and two-bedroom units (sleeping up to six). Most of the apartments have been updated, with simple modern furniture and clean, bright interiors, though a few are still awaiting a refresh and feel dated. Superior-level apartments have better quality furnishings and finish. All open to furnished balconies or terraces, some very spacious, with all one-bedroom and most two-bedroom apartments overlooking the pool. Some top-level rooms feature partial sea views or overlook a neighboring lake, while half entry-level units overlook the (mostly quiet) street.Cooking facilities include electronic hobs, fridge/freezers, microwaves, kettles, toasters, and cookware, with upgraded accommodation adding ovens and separate fridges and freezers. TVs are either 20- or 32-inch with channels that include several U.K.-based and kids' channels. In-room Wi-Fi is charged per device, and can be slow at peak-use times. Electronic safes also require a fee, while air-conditioning comes as standard, and around half also have ceiling fans. Most bathrooms have had a refit, with clean contemporary tiling, walk-in showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and simple toiletries (not replenished); some older bathrooms have shower/tub combos.

Most of the hotel's grounds are occupied by a large, often-lively swimming pool surrounded by lounger-lined sun terraces backed by well-tended gardens. The pool has a sectioned area for children, and there's a separate splash pool with three waterslides and water features. A playground and free supervised kids' club for 4 years and up are also available. A dedicated animation team provides activities for all ages, and evening entertainment is a mix of in-house and professional shows on an outdoor summer stage to mostly positive reviews. Set slightly away from the busy pool area is a pleasant garden where adults tend to relax on loungers under the dappled shade of palm trees. A tennis court is available to hire for a fee, though there are no gym or spa facilities. There's not a huge emphasis on dining at the Apartmentos Siesta I, with a small breakfast room with poolside terrace offering Full English and continental buffet items, plus an optional bed-and-breakfast plan. Red Lion is the main bar/restaurant with a terrace overlooking the pool and stage areas, offering an unfussy menu of the likes of pizza, pasta, omelets, and sandwiches, plus a kids' menu. A second street-front bar opens over the summer, and also welcomes non-guests. Those on self-catering can find a supermarket to the front of the building.