Ponent Mar Aparthotel

While the Ponent Mar's architecturally awkward entrance makes for a rather unappealing arrival, once inside, the reception area, with its bright, polished stone, subtle Art Deco accents, and cascading plant life, is much more welcoming. The lobby opens to an airy bar and lounge flooded with sunlight from floor-to-ceiling windows, and scattered rattan seating. But the main draw of the hotel is out back -- a series of spacious, tiered sun terraces featuring expansive and uninterrupted panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Crisp, whitewashed facades of the low-rise, V-shaped apartment complex flank this pristine outdoor space, dotted with pine trees, palms, and bursts of colorful flowers. Steps lead down through more well-tended gardens to a small rocky beach. This relaxed and upscale family-run hotel attracts cyclists and older couples in summer, and in high-season it draws families with kids, who spend time frolicking around the pool. 

Despite being located just a five-minute walk from the start of Majorca's popular and bustling Palmanova resort, the Ponent Mar boasts a particularly peaceful and secluded setting. This is largely thanks to its position at the end of a cul-de-sac, built into promontory that looks out to the open sea. The immediate area has other resort hotels and apartments blocks, with little in the way of dining and nightlife. The easy stroll into Palmanova, however, provides plenty of that, as well as a sandy beach. Those looking for wilder partying can find infamous Magaluf a five-minute cab journey away. The capital of Palma, with its gothic Cathedral and lovely Old Town, is less than a 20-minute drive, and Palma de Mallorca Airport takes roughly 25 minutes by car. 

The complex's studio and one-bedroom apartments fall into the Comfort (standard) or Superior categories. Apartments received a makeover in 2017 and have a cool, contemporary look, with white modern-design furniture and a more minimalist feel. All open to balconies or terraces, with upgraded units featuring superb sea vistas and loungers, and standard-level units overlooking the quiet street (though some have partial sea views). A handful of Superior apartments also connect to a shared sea-view terrace with whirlpool tubs, though these are luck of the draw. Updated kitchens in all accommodations includes microwaves, fridges, electronic ranges, toasters, and kettles. Superior rooms add better quality cookware. Standard amenities include 38-inch flat-screen TVs with an impressive selection of English-speaking channels, but the fee for in-room Wi-Fi is a drawback. Bathrooms are clean and contemporary, with walk-in showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and generic hotel-brand toiletries. Apartments have heating or AC, depending on the time of the year. 

The vibe at this hotel is relaxed and particularly chill around the pool, where numerous loungers and umbrellas scattered around terraces means guest can always find a spot to unwind. A low-key animation program does kick in over the summer months, however. The large freeform pool has a separate kids' section and zero-entry point, and those who want a dip in the sea have a short walk down to a lovely crystal-water cove, though it isn't ideal for swimming. There's also an indoor pool with solar heating, plus two saunas (fee) and a gym, but no on-site spa.  For dining, the buffet restaurant offers breakfast and dinner, neither of which are included as standard though breakfast and half-board plans are available. The dining room is bright and clean, with some sea-view tables, and live cooking for all meals. Next to the pool is another restaurant offering an a la carte menu and a terrace for lunch and candlelit dinners. The hotel bar provides snacks and drinks into the night, with evening entertainment most days. Room service is available until late, and there's a supermarket with a solid selection of groceries.