Hotel Don Pepe

The shimmering glass-balconied facade of Hotel Don Pepe certainly stands out from its immediate, less-contemporary surroundings. While the slightly dated looking signage detracts a little, softly-swooshing automatic doors open into a modern and spotless lobby, combining polished marble, gray-stone tiling, and wood paneling. Beige leather low-profile couches and steel-framed tables add to the very 21st-century feel -- upbeat background jazz on our visit matched the vibe as well. Just off the reception area, a mezzanine levels splits off to a terrace bar and lounge. There's little else in the way of communal areas, however, with no real outdoor space, restaurant, or -- usually standard for this level of hotel -- even a swimming pool. Unlike the vast majority in the area, it's a property modeled on the stripped-back, urban hotel concept, with a focus on good-value accommodation over resort-style facilities. This adults-only hotel tends to attract a younger clientele, both couples and vacationing friends, largely from Germany, followed by Dutch and Italians. 

Surrounded by apartment blocks, traditional townhouses, and tourist-oriented shops, Hotel Don Pepe is set in an unremarkable corner of the resort of El Arenal. This German-oriented vacation destination is located at the far end of sweeping Playa de Palma, and certainly a little rough around the edges, with numerous fast food joints, convenience stores, themed bars, and kebab shops. The beach is five-block, five-minute walk downhill, with lovely white sand and clear, calm water, though it can get very crowded during summer months. One of Palma's livelier resorts, there's certainly no shortage of nightlife within walking distance, though it's far enough away to not get too noisy. Palma de Mallorca Airport is also 10 minutes away by car, while the island's capital is about 15 minutes (with nearby bus connection taking 25 to 45 minutes).  

All last fully updated in 2010, the hotel's 154 guest rooms have simple, modern furniture, tastefully tiled floors, and plain walls adorned with locally-taken photos. The feel is more functional than stylish, though spotlessly clean and well-maintained. At the high end are roomy Suites with terraces and loungers, though no separate living areas. Next are Superior and Comfort rooms, which also open to smaller terraces with loungers and external street views. Standard Interior rooms, however, can feel cramped and have unfurnished balconies overlooking a central enclosed space, while some just have windows. Some rooms also overlook a shabby unused swimming pool, and none have sea views. All units are air-conditioned, and come with flat-screen TVs (26-, 32-, or 42-inch depending on room type) and digital safes (for a fee). Mini-fridges are available to rent, but free of charge in upgraded rooms, which also add music systems. Bathrooms are clean and modern, with either shower/tub combos or walk-in showers, plus wall-mounted hairdryers and chain-branded toiletries. Some past guests have complained of poor soundproofing between rooms, and lower-level street-facing units are prone to some external noise. In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge.

Facilities are certainly not a strongpoint at Hotel Don Pepe, lacking anything in the way of fitness, spa, or leisure facilities. A basement dining room does offer a decent breakfast buffet of hot items (eggs, sausages, bacon) and continental standards (bread, cereal, cheese), plus coffee and juice machines. There's a corner with healthy and dietary options, though no live cooking station and breakfast isn't included as standard. The lobby bar opens every day into the evening, offering the usual range of drinks (plus a welcome cocktail), some basic snacks, and a comfy terrace overlooking the street. A second bar with a pool table only tends to open for special events. There's also a pair of internet terminals and vending machines for guests' use. Wi-Fi is free throughout though speed and reliability can vary from zippy to sluggish.