Hotel Roc Leo

Major renovations completed in 2017 totally transformed the previously dated beige facade of Roc Leo Hotel with a contemporary makeover of crisp, clean lines, glass balconies, and polished metallic accents. A swish and minimal reception area comprises little beyond a simple, back-lit reception desk and a small lounge with modern-design seating, retro tables, and a modest collection of potted tropical flora. Off the lobby is a spacious bar-lounge decked out in the same fresh and simple 21st-century styling, and through to a sunny and spacious pool terrace. Besides a small patch of lawn, there's not much in the way of gardens, though a patio provides an even quieter area in which to relax away from the already laid-back pool. On the whole, Roc Leo feels upscale and understated, and on our visit there was a real mix of guests, including couples of all ages plus several families with kids. The hotel offers a range of meal plans, from breakfast-only to full-board, and most guests seem to get the half-board package, which includes breakfast and dinner. Rates are competitive for a hotel of this caliber that’s close to the beach in Can Pastilla, but travelers seeking something cheaper may want to consider the BQ Hotel Apolo, also located right by the beach. The adults-only Hotel JS Palma Stay is a great alternative for couples wanting a kid-free vacation, complete with a spa, modern gym, and two pools. For something a tad more upscale, consider the BQ Aguamarina Boutique Hotel, which features upscale rooms with balconies and espresso machines, a rooftop deck with an infinity pool, and a small spa. 

The Roc Leo is located on the outskirts of the small town of Can Pastilla, and a block from the long stretch of Playa de Palma beach. The immediate surroundings are mostly other hotels, with a few tourist-friendly bars and eateries within a short stroll -- mostly lining the pleasant beachfront promenade that runs for miles along the seafront. Also just over five minutes away on foot is the Palma Aquarium. As well as easy access to the island's buzzing capital, Palma (10 to 15 minutes by road), the hotel is particularly well-positioned for the airport, which is under 10 minutes by car. Bus stops just outside the hotel also connect to both, as well as the livelier resort of El Arenal along the coast.

The hotel has 285 rooms, all of which benefitted from a full overhaul in 2017 and are finished in contemporary decor that combines laminate flooring, modern furniture with clean lines, and splashes of blue against a fresh white backdrop. While most rooms open to balconies or terraces, some Premium units have larger outdoor spaces with parasols and pairs of loungers overlooking the pool. Premium Rooms on the upper two floors also feature at least partial sea views. Plane-spotters can also ask for rooms overlooking the runways of the nearby airport, which unfortunately makes airplane noise inevitable.Standard amenities in all rooms include air-conditioning, 32-inch flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and electronic safes (for a fee), though it's the Premium facilities that really impress with imbedded Bluetooth speakers, 40-inch TVs, robes and slippers, Nespresso machines, and free minibars with drinks and snacks that are replenished weekly. In-room Wi-Fi is also only free of charge in Premium Rooms, but other units must pay an additional fee to connect to the internet. Bathrooms are open-plan, with walk-in showers (rainfall and handheld), wall-mounted hairdryers, and chain-branded soap/shampoo dispensers. Glassed-in showers means some showers lack privacy.

For an upper-middle-range property, the Roc Leo offers slightly limited amenities. Its large swimming pool is certainly a highlight, with plentiful loungers and umbrellas, plus a spacious splash pool for kids and a small grass area. The adjacent bar offers a la carte snacks with a good selection of drinks, including an impressive choice of teas, coffees, and cocktails. Shows are put on three evenings a week in the roomy entertainment lounge, consisting mostly of live music and cabaret. Most dining takes place in a bright and clean buffet restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner to guests, depending on their plan. Breakfast is always included, with live cooking stations at all meals. Guests can dine on an alfresco terrace overlooking the pool.The hotel lacks both fitness and spa facilities, and with no kids' club and the loss of the mini-golf course post-renovation, there's nothing in the way of on-site activities for children. There is, however, year-round entertainment, with daily activities such as Zumba and evening shows. Outdoor parking is available for a fee.