Hoposa Uyal Hotel

Although built in 1954, the Hoposa Uyal Hotel could easily pass for centuries earlier, with an elegant arched entrance and a stone coat-of-arms adorning its Mediterranean tower facade. The hotel comprises the main older building, to which an extensive-yet-sympathetic extension was added in the '70s, and an annex building next door with additions as recently as 2016. Last fully renovated in 2012, the hotel features contemporary updates that complement rather than clash with the period architecture and interiors. The reception area features antique-style details such as a carved wood front desk, original beamed ceilings, and polished marble floors. Just off the lobby, a bright lounge combines contemporary styling with an original fireplace and traditional Majorcan tiling -- from what was the kitchen of this once privately owned family residence. Pre-renovation antiques have been moved from guest rooms into bright, modern hallways, resulting in a tasteful balance of the two styles. While the hotel's gardens are on the small side, they are tidy and well-tended, dotted with pine and palm trees, and providing a spacious terrace and front patio with views to the bay. A relaxed, upmarket atmosphere appeals largely to more mature vacationing couples (mostly British), including many repeat customers, a few of whom even spend the whole summer as guests. 

The hotel is located towards the south end of Majorca's popular resort town of Port de Pollensa, in the northeast of the island at the end of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. Set on the seafront road that stretches along much of the resort town, the hotel is just across the street from a wide strip of sandy beach and the Bay of Pollensa's clear waters. While there are a couple restaurants within a short stroll, the resort center with its marina, pine-shaded promenade, and most of the town's dining is a 15- to 20-minute walk away. Around a 20-minute drive away is the unspoiled beach of Formentor, and stunning views from the headland beyond. Palma with its beautiful old town can be reached in just under an hour by car, while Palma de Mallorca Airport is around the same distance.

The hotel has guest rooms spread across the add-on and the annex, plus 20 suites that are all found in the main building. While layout can vary, decor (refreshed in 2012) is largely identical throughout. A combination of simply styled furniture with cheerful patterned fabrics and wood-veneer floors creates bright contemporary interiors with a traditional feel. All but a handful open to furnished balconies or terraces, and almost half of those feature lovely views of Pollensa bay. Ground-floor annex rooms also extend to spacious terraces overlooking a secluded patch of garden. While rooms are generally spacious, reports suggest Single Rooms can be cramped. Amenities are suitably upscale, with pillow menus and thick bathrobes joining coffee/tea facilities, minibars (with beer, though no spirits or wine), and 32-inch flat-screen TVs (with a selection of British channels that are sometimes prone to poor reception). Suites add separate lounges with extra TVs and double sofa beds. Ironing facilities also come as standard, as do pool towels. In-room Wi-Fi is free and fast. Clean, modern bathrooms mostly have walk-in showers (suites tend to have large tubs with showers), wall-mounted hairdryers, and generic toiletries.

A buffet breakfast comprising a decent spread of hot and cold dishes, plus cooked-to-order omelets, is included in the rate and served in the airy dining room. While inside dining can lack a little in atmosphere, most guests choose to take meals on the extensive alfresco terrace. A half-board option includes a buffet dinner with show cooking, and a lunch menu is served a la carte. Reports suggest food, although not outstanding, is largely good quality. Evening entertainment is low-key and alternates between the hotel bar and the nearby sister hotel Pollentia. An outdoor pool is long enough for a proper swim, with a separate kiddy section and partial sea views, though its proximity to the road means it doesn't feel very private. Loungers are plentiful and waiters provide drink service. Due to open for the 2017 season, a stylish spa area in the annex building overlooks gardens, and is complete with a short swimming pool, large whirlpool tub, and sauna and steam rooms, as well as a fitness room upstairs. The hotel also provides free parking and a secure garage for up to 90 bikes.