Protur Playa Cala Millor Hotel

The first thing noticeable upon arrival at the Protur Playa Cala Millor Hotel is just how pristine it is -- even compared to the other gleaming white properties on either side. Stepping inside it's no different, with a bright and airy lobby that combines gray-marble floors with a tastefully muted palette and comfy contemporary seating, all immaculately presented. A welcome glass of chilled fizz also adds to the upscale ambience, and the hotel's child-free policy creates a more peaceful, grown-up vibe. While the building dates back several decades, it underwent a total renovation and modernization in 2014, which can certainly be seen throughout the property. Otherwise minimal hallways feature "inspirational" quotes that help detract from the sometimes clinical feel, though most guests -- a mix of couples of all ages -- enjoy the look and feel of this spotless, stylish, and super-modern hotel.

The hotel is set overlooking the middle of the long and picturesque sandy beach of Cala Millor. The lively resort center, which is brimming with dining and nightlife options, is a 10-minute walk away. The famous Cafe del Sol music venue is a few minutes away on foot, and five minutes' walk is a go-kart track. By car, travelers can reach attractions such as the Castillo de sa Punta de n'Amer, a 17th-century watchtower, in about five minutes by car, and Safari Zoo in 12 minutes. The island capital of Palma and the Palma de Mallorca Airport are around an hour's drive away. Travelers with cars should note that there's no on-site parking and there are limited public spaces around the hotel.

The hotel's 242 rooms continue the fresh, bright, and contemporary feel of the rest of the hotel, with a sand-and-stone palette, wood-effect floors, sleek wooden floors, simple modern furniture, and bright pops of yellow in the throw pillows and headboard cutouts. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors provide plenty of natural light and (all but four rooms) open to balconies with rattan or reclinable seating; most have at least partial sea views while upgraded rooms have the bonus of double balconies with sun loungers. Economy rooms lack balconies and tend to have poor or no views. Comprehensive amenities include wall-mounted 32-inch flat-screen TVs (including plenty of U.K.-based channels), well-stocked minibars (with free daily water), Bluetooth speakers, and coffee- and tea-making facilities; Wi-Fi is also free of charge and reliable. Contemporary bathrooms have walk-in showers (both rainfall and handheld showerheads), heated towel racks, and decent toiletries. Plug-in hairdryers also come as standard, and bedside panels control all of the room lights. Note that some rooms require a minimum stay.

Breakfast comprises an impressive array of dishes and a chef on-hand making pancakes and cooked-to-order eggs, plus it can be taken on a lovely alfresco terrace. Fresh juices and sparkling wine are also served on Sundays. With half-board plans as standard, breakfast and evening meals are included (with allocated seating). Guests also have one dinner per stay at the hotel's a la carte Mediterranean restaurant. A poolside snack bar serves light meals and drinks, and a lounge bar has live piano music. Most guests agree the quality of the food is excellent, though evening entertainment could be better. The hotel's main outdoor pool is a decent size, with plentiful loungers, daybeds, and parasols, and unlike most, it is heated during cooler weather (with renewable energy). There are also a hot tub for up to eight bathers and a shaded chill-out zone with sea views, hammocks, and plenty of comfy seating, plus free Wi-Fi coverage. Inside is a heated indoor pool, plus whirlpool tub, sauna, small fitness room, and massage treatment area.