Club Calimera Es Talaial

Among the many all-inclusive resorts that pepper this part of Mallorca, the Club Calimera is one of the larger options and has plenty of lively bustle day and night. Overall, it's a pleasant all-inclusive option, though expectations do need to be managed a bit, and those seeking tranquility may want to look elsewhere -- this place draws plenty of families with children. Automatic doors swoosh open into its lobby -- a bright and simply-styled area with colorful jaunty artworks, information boards, and brochures set against clean white walls. This combination continues throughout the complex, with apartments spread around five whitewashed blocks, built in the typical Balearic style and set in grounds punctuated by bright and colorful flora, signage, and facilities. The considerable size of this all-inclusive complex, with its numerous buildings, pools, and well-tended gardens, gives it the feel of a cheerful and lively village. It is first and foremost a family-oriented resort, particularly popular with parents with young kids, and even grandparents too; the majority of the clientele are German, with the rest mostly from the U.K. and Spain, many of whom are repeat customers. 

The hotel is located in the tourist district of Cala Egos, just south of the popular resort town of Cala d'Or and across from its marina. The neighborhood is almost entirely geared toward the vacationing crowd that descends each summer, and is practically closed over the winter months. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops within a short stroll of the hotel, though the atmosphere is quiet and serene, with minimal noisy nightlife. Calo d'es Pou Beach is just a two-minute walk away and is a pleasant but small stretch of sand that can get busy at peak times. A train-shaped resort bus can be caught just across the road and connects to various other parts of the town, including Cala d'Or center and Cala Ferrera. Palma de Mallorca Airport is about an hour away, while Palma's quaint Old Town is a bit farther.

The resort has 250 apartments, which include studios as well as one- and two-bedroom units. Decor is contemporary and bright, with ashen wood-laminate flooring wood-veneer furniture plus simple white pieces complemented by striped fabrics. All units include kitchenettes with fridges, microwaves, and coffee machines. Wi-Fi is available for a fee, but it doesn't reach all the rooms. Separate lounges (or seating areas in studios) include sofa beds and either flat-screen or small tube TVs, which have mostly German channels and limited English offerings. Furnished balconies and terraces are spacious, and some have sea views -- most are partial, though block five has full views of the water. Upgraded apartments feature roof terraces with deck chairs and whirlpool tubs. Bathrooms are mostly a mix of modern tile and marble, with shower/tub combos or walk-in showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and soap dispensers. We did spot some stained marble in the room that we visited, but they are otherwise clean. Note that apartments are set over three floors with no elevators, so mobility impaired guests should ask for those on the ground floor. 

The Club Calimera Es Talaial offers some of the widest choices of fun-focused facilities in the area, mostly for the little ones. All of its swimming pools have lifeguards, plus there are two mini waterparks -- complete with fountains, slides, and jets -- and two kids' pools. An indoor swimming pool, while generally only open during cooler months, offers swimming lessons throughout the year. A large indoor play area doubles as a supervised kids' club during certain hours, and children also have an outdoor playground, game room, and mini discos, plus a comprehensive activities program.

Adult-oriented facilities aren't bad either, with a decent (and generally underused) spa that include a sauna, thermal pool, and steam room (entry incurs a fee). Unusual for this kind of hotel, there's also a spacious and modern fitness room, plus exercise classes. There's also an adult-only chill-out terrace complete with massage-jet pool, sun loungers, and bar serving cocktails away from the hubbub. Evening entertainment such as live music and shows are put on six days a week, though some complain most is in German. 

Dining is an exception to the varied facilities, with just one large main restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet-style with some show cooking. The quality and variety of food, however, generally receives positive reviews. A poolside bar also serves snacks throughout the afternoon and the chill-out terrace turns into a barbecue restaurant in the evening.

The all-inclusive plan covers buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main restaurant, plus snacks such as pizza, burgers, and hotdogs at the poolside bar. One dinner each week at the barbecue restaurant is also included for most guests. All soft drinks and most local alcoholic drinks are covered (bars display menu of all-inclusive such as local beer, wine, and pre-made cocktails). One day of continuous childcare is included once a week (for children 3 to 9 years old) and all kids' club activities as well. 

Not included in the plan are branded drinks and freshly made cocktails, access to the spa and gym, and laundry facilities. While Wi-Fi is generally charged, there are a couple of hotspots where guests have free access if they purchase a drink.