Hipotels Mediterraneo Club

Due to a combination of weather-worn concrete and dated '80s architecture, arrival at the Hipotels Mediterraneo Club is certainly an underwhelming experience. The lobby, however, is clean and bright, mixing marble floors with colorful seating and potted plants -- a pleasant space but functional rather than overly inviting. Most of the complex continues in a similar vein, and the over 300 apartments are spread over rows of two- and three-story blocks that appear modern to some and characterless to others. Much of the gray concrete, however, is clad in greenery, plus almost four acres (1.6 hectares) of gardens combines well-tended lawns with sculpted hedgerow and various pine and palm trees. The atmosphere in this very family-oriented complex is fun and friendly, attracting mostly couples with kids from throughout Europe. While more relaxed either side of the summer months, expect plenty of screaming kids running around the various pools, playgrounds, and eateries over the school breaks.

Set on the beach in Sa Coma, a small resort town on Majorca's eastern coast, the hotel occupies a convenient location for sea and sun seekers, while also being within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and shops. There are many other hotels in the immediate vicinity including the sister adult-only hotel next door -- Hipotels Mediterraneo. The picturesque Castillo de sa Punta de n’Amer is a seven-minute drive away or a pleasant 28-minute walk. Other nearby attractions include Safari Zoo (an 11-minute drive away) and the Drach Caves (a 13-minute drive, or about 20 minutes by bus). Palma's airport is about an hour away by car, and Palma's city center can be reached in a bit over an hour.

The complex has 318 one-bedroom apartments sleeping up to four guests (two adults and two children) and one studio. All are decorated in clean, modern styling with simple light-wood furnishings, neutral-tone linens, and colorful artwork and ceilings. Glass doors open to spacious, furnished balconies or terraces with views over the gardens or one of the pools, and some include partial or full-frontal sea views. Living areas include two sofa beds, 32-inch flat-screen TVs (with a few U.K.-based channels), and dining furniture, plus kitchenettes with fridges, microwaves, and electric hobs. Wi-Fi is free of charge and generally very reliable, though safes cost extra. Bathrooms are clean and contemporary, with walk-in showers (with rainfall and handheld showerheads), wall-mounted hairdryers, and chain-branded toiletries. 

When it comes to pools, this complex certainly impresses with two large outdoor swimming pools, each with separate kid-friendly sections, plus a pirate-themed splash pool with waterslides. Children of all ages are also particularly well looked after, with an excellent selection of kids' clubs ranging from tots to teens throughout the day and into the evening (including an evening babysitting service). Squash and tennis courts, as well as a gym with a range of equipment are available. Adults looking for spa facilities or just some peace and quiet, however, might be disappointed. There's a decent choice of dining, from the buffet restaurant (including a kids' corner), a snack bar serving pizza, and a more relaxing eatery offering a menu of traditional tapas.