Melia Calvia Beach

Formerly belonging to the Melia's midrange Sol brand of hotels, the property was relaunched as upscale Melia Calvia Beach after extensive renovations completed in 2016. It's almost unrecognizable from its previous '70s-era incarnation, and even the facade got a super swish facelift, which immediately distinguishes it as one of the resort's swankier hotels. Stepping inside, the interiors follow suit, with a mix of travertine stone flooring, marble-slab front desk, and understated wood paneling that create a chic, breezy reception area. There's an equally inviting lobby lounge, with sisal fiber rugs, quirky ceramics, and low-slung rattan couches. Mellow tunes create a chill atmosphere, and row of lounge beds in the back of the lobby encourage relaxing and lingering.The 300-plus guest rooms and Suites are spread over 10 floors, accessible via a trio of speedy elevators. While clean and showing no obvious signs of age, slightly older-fashioned hallways jar with the rest of the property's updated aesthetic. The rear pool and sun terraces, however, continue same high-end, contemporary look, with the added bonus of views over the beach and sea -- though also partiers at neighboring ME Mallorca. While the vibe feels more adult-oriented, clientele is a mix of families with kids during summer months and well-heeled couples throughout the year, mostly from the UK and northern Europe.

It isn't obvious on the hotel's website that Melia Calvia Beach is located at the far southern end of Majorca's notorious party town of Magaluf. The hotel does, however, have direct access to the resort's undeniably impressive sweeping beach and is away from most of the area's raucous, booze-fueled nightlife. There are still numerous lively bars, restaurant, and clubs within a short stroll, as well as a supermarket just across the street. Also nearby -- and certainly within earshot -- is the upmarket Nikki Beach beach club, while more family-oriented fun can be had at the Katmandu Park fairground and theme park, 10 minutes away on foot. The charming medieval streets of Palma's Old Town are a 15 to 20 minute drive, while getting to Palma de Mallorca Airport takes about 30 minutes by car.

The hotel's 315 rooms and Suites break down roughly into Standard or upgraded "The Level" categories, and whether or not they have sea views. Most (but not all) entry-level rooms start at a respectable 270 square feet (25 square meters), with partially updated decor that combines functional modern furniture with wood veneer paneling and stone-effect tile floors. Premium rooms add an extra 32 square feet (three square meters) and have a more elegant, contemporary finish, while also guaranteeing sea-view balconies. Most Standard rooms overlook the street or have some partial water views.Standard amenities impress, with 32 or 42-inch flat-screen TVs, well-stocked minibars, free digital safes, and coffee- and tea-making facilities. Thick bathrobes and slippers are also provided in all rooms, as is free Wi-Fi, though it can be slow in some units. Upgraded lodging adds Nespresso machines (with free and daily replenished pods), but bathrooms are the biggest difference. They feature glass-sided showers overlooking the bedroom area, and Junior Suites include sea-view Duravit tubs. Standard bathrooms are dated in comparison, with shower/tub combos, terra-cotta tiles and granite vanities, though all have rainfall showers, professional hairdryers, and high-end Rituals toiletries. Family-oriented rooms offer kid-friendly bathroom amenities, and bedtime milkshakes and cookies.

It's hard to find fault with the range of on-site dining and relaxation facilities available, though guests looking for anything livelier than poolside Tai Chi might be disappointed. Most will start the day in the bright and airy buffet restaurant, which opens to a huge panoramic terrace with views over the bay. There's a quaint traditional market theme to the buffet area, which offers freshly cooked pancakes, omelets, and eggs to order for breakfast. For dinner, there's a station that rotates themes, and live cooking changes daily. Breakfast isn't always included (and some may find it pricey), but half-board rates are available. The Cape Nao bar-restaurant offers an a la carte menu throughout the day, and it's situated on an elevated sea-view terrace. Guests can order from (for-fee) loungers and daybeds positioned on the hotel's waterfront platform. A lobby-side Italian cafe opens during busier months. All reports suggest both buffet and a la carte food quality is excellent. Room service is available 24/7. The hotel's main lagoon-style swimming pool is suitably large, though the surrounding area is a bit tight for loungers. Spacious sun terraces and direct access to the beach tend to alleviate any crowding. There's also a separate splash pool, as well as a free mini-club for kids from eight months to four years, and five- to 12-year olds. A modest-size spa, however, is adults-only, with a heated indoor pool, Finnish sauna, a bright and spacious gym, and range of massage and beauty treatments. Other than some gentle exercise classes, the hotel offers no activities or water sports. The Level guests also have access to a second pool terrace with daybeds and loungers with push-button waiter service (plus free suntan lotion and chilled water). This exclusive zone also includes the Level dining, which is open for a la carte breakfast and dinner, and a bar offers free drinks and snacks throughout the day (with an open bar offering an hour of free alcoholic drinks daily). Other The Level perks include private sit-down check-in and free spa access.