Hotel Los Geranios

Amid Majorca's chain-dominated large buildings, this intimate beachfront property is a hidden gem, and its location at the quieter end of Puerto de Soller is calm and scenic. There's no pool, but Playa d'en Repic's white sand is right outside, and the hotel sits on this horseshoe bay's seafront promenade, taking in magnificent vistas that encompass the nearby Tramuntana mountains. Don't expect anything fancy, although promenade-fronting bar and restaurant terraces are lovely (and a step up from indoor seating), and local dishes here get rave reviews. The 2014-renovated interiors have Mediterranean influences like gorgeous tiled floors in patterned blues and whites, and photographic flair in the lobby showcases the bay's famous lighthouse. There isn't much for kids, although with a beach outside and mountain trails a five-minute walk away, there's plenty to keep little ones occupied. Note, the hotel is only open from March until mid-November.

The hotel sits in the heart of Platja d'en Repic's bay, with the town's pedestrianized promenade and beach just outside. White sands front turquoise waters here, and the beach is great for paddleboarding, snorkeling, and diving, plus loungers and umbrellas can be hired. Cafes, shops, and restaurants fill this quaint shorefront, although majestic mountain backdrops are anything but humble. The area has a local feel thanks to authentic eateries and fishing boats, although emerging bars are hip. Nearby trams run to Soller (a 10-minute drive, or 16-minute bike ride), while busses run to the capital, Palma, in one hour. Panoramic views from the Cap Gros lighthouse are five minutes away by car, or a 30-minute walk. Soller's marina is half that, and Tramuntana's mountain trails are five minutes on foot. Palma de Mallorca Airport is a 35-minute drive, or 90 minutes by public transport.

Comfortable rooms vary in size and slightly in style, and all have furnished balconies -- many with lateral or full sea views -- except for Economy and Single Rooms. The traditional design includes classic wood furniture, carpeting, and nautical blue or red bed runners, throw pillows, and matching armchairs. Black-and-white or landscape artwork adds some decoration. While the look is old-fashioned, modern amenities include phones, desks, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi, plus hairdryers, AC and safes (at a fee). Lower-category rooms lack tea- and coffee-making facilities. Suites have sofa beds in living areas and microwave-equipped kitchenettes, plus some include terraces with sofas and loungers. Alongside jetted tubs, they guarantee bay views, as do Superior Room categories. A mix of stall shower (some with rainfall showerheads) and shower/tub combos form clean bathrooms with toiletries. Rooms can be fitted with cribs.

With no pool or kid-centric amenities, features here are limited, although the hotel's beachfront location is its biggest pro. Tall palm trees overlook the promenade and the sea's crystalline waters, and nearby mountains are atmospheric. La Brasserie restaurant is simply adorned, making promenade-adjacent terraces overlooking the sea more attractive and popular. Included in some bookings, buffet breakfasts consist of cooked eggs, bacon, and baked beans, continental fare, and fresh-squeezed juices, tea, coffee, and sparkling wine. Paellas and fresh-caught fish make for popular lunches and dinners, and the bar's menu features soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, plus ice cream all day. Coming here for peace and quiet, guests find the lack of entertainment a pro. A sauna is free to use, but there's no gym. On-site parking is at a fee and pets are not permitted. Beach towels require refundable deposits, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.