GPRO Valparaiso Palace & SPA

Housed in a mid-1970s pink and white building, from the outside the Valparaiso looks just like any other beach hotel along the Spanish Mediterranean coast. White stone balustrades and a few of fountains with metal statues add some charm, but there is no immediate wow factor. However, the over 215,000-square-foot garden grounds are remarkable and feature manicured lawns dotted with Mediterranean pines, palm trees and cypresses, two large pools, and a man-made waterfall. The hotel's hillside location allows for striking sea, city, and bay views -- from all common spaces and most rooms. The lobby decor elegant and upscale, featuring a soft color palette, large windows, a bit of white wainscoting, and rugs in blue hues. Details such as golden accents, marble-like finishes, and crystal chandeliers can leave the hotel with a somewhat old-fashioned feel. Overall, the property has a classic and romantic vibe to it, and its luxe amenities and elegant rooms make it favorite for couples.

The hotel has a quiet location in upscale Bonanova neighborhood. This area is mostly residential, but there are several casual restaurants and bars within walking distance from the GPRO Valapariso. Porto Pi mall, home to dozens of shops and a number of dining options, can be reached on foot in about 15 minutes. Heading down to the main Palma promenade is an easy, 15-minute walk, but the way back can be challenging due to the hotel’s location atop a long, steep hill. Most major attractions, such as the historic center and the cathedral, are a 20-minute drive away. There is a bus stop a two-minute walk from the property, and taxis are readily available. Palma de Mallorca Airport can be reached in about 25 minutes by car.

The hotel has 174 spacious, light-filled rooms with furnished balconies or terraces. Most have expansive sea views, though a few look out over the mountains. Rooms come across contemporary and stylish. Suites are decorated in a classic style. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, minibars, flat-screen TVs, robes and slippers. Junior Suites and Suites have a few extra perks, such as Nespresso coffeemakers and electric kettles. Most bathrooms feature shower/tub combos, but upgrades to Suites get you separate jetted tubs and double sinks. Family Suites have two bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus two balconies with panoramic sea views.

The star feature of this property is the large wellness center and spa. One of Spain's largest, this serene space has a large hydrotherapy area with whirlpools and indoor-outdoor pool, a Finnish sauna, hammam, treatment rooms for couples or private massages, and beauty salon. The relaxation area has dim lighting and padded loungers. In addition to the spa's pool, the hotel has two large, outdoor saltwater pools offering lots of space for sunbathing on stretched loungers, fountains, and a seasonal pool bar. The Dao pool bar serves healthy meals out of a stained-glass pavilion with wrought-iron chairs and tables. GPRO Valparaiso's fitness center is well-equipped with cardio and strength-training machines and group classes. You can also find three paddle tennis courts and a regular-sized court in this area. An extensive breakfast buffet (for a fee) is served every morning at Paraiso Restaurant, while Mar Blau serves up casual Mediterranean cuisine in a cute, blue and white dining room outfitted with a large terrace with sea views. The bar here has live entertainment during the summer season. In the evenings the breakfast buffet restaurant turns into a gourmet a la carte gourmet spot where you'll find elevated Mediterranean dishes.Business amenities include 10 fully equipped meeting rooms and a business center. The hotel also has free indoor and outdoor parking, and free Wi-Fi throughout.