Flamboyan Caribe

The property is in fact two hotels made one: the Flamboyan is the main building -- which is home to all of the facilities and around half of the rooms -- and the Caribe, a neighboring block with the remainder of the guest rooms. Thankfully, public interiors were revamped in 2013, and make a nice first impression. The lobby is a bright and contemporary space with attractive wood-clad walls, modern furnishings, and a subtle sea theme in wavy white motifs. A sunny bar and terrace overlooking the sea are equally pleasant. While not a huge complex, the abundance of outdoor space give the place a bright and open feel. Largely an adult-oriented hotel, clientele consists mostly of couples and groups of friends, though you'll also see some kids splashing around the pool over the summer months. It remains a relatively calm pick even though it's quite close to the heart of Magaluf's nightlife.

The hotel is located in the Torrenova area, just north of Magaluf and perched overlooking the east end of its long sandy beach. While the immediate area certainly has its fair share of bars and fast food outlets, Magaluf's main strip of bars and clubs is just a five-minute walk away. More family-oriented fun can be found at Katmandu Park, around 10 minutes away on foot. About the same distance in the other direction, Palmanova offers less wild nightlife and plenty of dining. Nearby buses also run into Palma, with its gothic Cathedral and lovely Old Town, taking about 30 minutes; cabs to Palma de Majorca Airport take around the same time.

The hotel has 205 rooms, all of which were renovated in 2012 -- though that doesn't exactly translate into cutting-edge design. Those in the Flamboyan building have fresh, simple decor combining wood-veneer floors, coordinating white-and-blue fabrics, and crisp white furniture. Caribe room tend toward tiled floors, pinewood paneling and furniture, and striped bedspreads and curtains. The latter have a homier look that's a little fusty when compared to those in the Flamboyan building. All rooms open to balconies or terraces with plastic garden-style seating. Some units feature superb views over the bay -- many, however, look to the rear and the garden or road. Some sea-view rooms on higher floors have larger terraces, though interiors will be a bit more compact. Amenities are minimal, though all include flat-screen TVs (22- and 32-inch) with a limited mix of European channels. Although there's no coffee- and tea-making facilities, kettles and mini-fridges are available to rent. In-room Wi-Fi is available, but fairly expensive and charged per device. Bathrooms are simple and clean, with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and sachet toiletries. Considering its location, most report that noise is not generally a problem in the rooms.

Features aren't numerous here, though what's on offer helps make this a pleasant pick for the area. The hotel's restaurant is bright and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows to take full advantage of the fine sea views. A buffet breakfast is included in rates and includes a good range of hot and cold dishes (though no cooked-to-order items). Half-board, full-board, and all-inclusive plans are also available, and lunch and dinner are provided with show cooking and a weekly themed buffet (usually traditional Majorcan cooking). Snacks and drinks (including smoothies) are also available at the poolside bar -- which includes a sea-view terrace -- and the lower-level bar directly looks over the beach. While not huge, the outdoor L-shaped pool is surrounded by chairs and loungers, and offers a separate section for kids (though there's no other facilities for the little ones on-site). Set between the two buildings is a pair of whirlpool tubs, also with sea views. Guests also have free entry to a small spa, which was opened in 2013 and features a therapy pool with water jets, a sauna, aromatic showers, and whirlpool tub; there's also a small gym and massage treatments are available.

The optional plan covers the buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as some snacks including hot dogs, ice cream, and burgers served in the afternoon. A good selection of soft and alcoholic drinks are also covered, including some branded beverages; premium brands are available at a discount. Self-service beer and wine (red, white, and rose) are available during meal times. In-room Wi-Fi, safes, kettles, and mini-fridges are not included.