Garden Holiday Village

Passing under the snow-white canopy at its entrance, it's clear that the Garden Holiday Village aims to create an air of elegance -- and it largely succeeds. Its bright and breezy lobby also certain helps, with plenty of polished stone, smart contemporary furnishing, and white-on-white decor tinged with silver accents that include Buddha statues. A chilled glass of Cava on check-in completes the sophisticated arrival experience. This all-inclusive complex comprises the main building -- with the buffet restaurant and bar -- plus just over a dozen two-story accommodation blocks circling well-tended tropical gardens. A complete makeover in 2015 has certainly give the property the polish of modernity throughout, while the hotel's adult-only policy ensures a more laid-back and tranquil atmosphere. The secluded and grown-up vibe attracts mainly British couples and is popular with honeymooners.

The hotel is located in the secluded and relatively sedate resort of Playa de Muro, just south of the larger and more popular Port d'Alcudia and halfway along its huge bay. Just opposite is a small lake and the property's grounds back up to canals and the S’Albufera Nature Reserve (all of which can be a source of mosquitos). There's little in the immediate area, and it's around a 10-minute walk to a road lined with tourist shops, mini-markets, and restaurants, plus one block farther to the long, picturesque sandy beach. The family-friendly Hidropark is a 10-minute drive away or the scenic cobbled streets of Alcudia town are about 15. It's also about an hour by road from the island's capital of Palma, and Palma de Mallorca Airport is the same distance.

There are 132 guest rooms spread across four types -- Standard, Superior, Premium, and Suite. Decor in most rooms is fresh and contemporary, with wood-effect flooring, modern furnishings, and muted tones with the odd splash of color. Suites add a more elegant feel with bed drapery and exotic Moroccan touches in red and gold. Superior rooms also have big comfy sofas, while Premium feature private gardens with loungers. All other rooms open to furnished balconies or terraces, most overlooking the pool and grounds, though some look toward a neighboring hospital. Standard amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges (filled on request), and safes (for a fee); in-room Wi-Fi is available free of charge, but reports suggest connectivity is poor. Bathrooms are clean and contemporary with spacious walk-in showers (no tubs), wall-mounted hairdryers, and decent toiletries. While generally quiet, rooms facing the entertainment stage are prone to noise at night; mosquitos can also be a pest after dark.

The outdoor swimming pool is a large, free-form affair, with shallow section, and separate whirlpool tub, all of which can be on the cold side. Poolside loungers are plentiful, and Bali beds are available to hire (the price is steep but included a bottle of fizz and fruit). There are no spa facilities, however, and the small gym has just a handful of equipment. As well as a daily program of activities, an outside stage plays host to evening entertainment ranging from quizzes to professional music acts. Breakfast is the usual buffet of hot and cold items, plus some local Majorcan produce and a live cooking station making omelets and pancakes. The dining room is bright and cheerful and opens to an alfresco terrace. Lunch and dinner are also served here buffet-style, though many guests have found the food average. There's also a rooftop a la carte restaurant offering a better quality tasting menu, as well as two bars serving drinks and snacks.

The all-inclusive plan covers the buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including themed nights, plus one meal per stay at the a la carte restaurant. National-brand beer, wine, spirits, and a selection of cocktails are also covered, and ice-cream is available throughout the day. Guests of the hotel also get half-price at the Samsara Beach Club, accessible using the free shuttle service. The plan does not cover most cocktails, international-brand alcohol, minibars, Bali beds, or any drinks after a certain time.