Universal Hotel Cabo Blanco

With its broad stone arch, wrought iron gates, and terra-cotta tiles, the entrance to the Universal Hotel Cabo Blanco -- and pretty courtyard just beyond -- certainly appears incongruous with the modern block it adjoins. Stepping inside, the lobby is also a mix of the old and new, with antique-style furnishings mingled with bright contemporary seating, all against a background of a well-maintained '70s-era hotel. It's an adult-only property, so the mood is relaxed and more peaceful than most. It largely draws more mature guests in their 50s and above, (mostly from Germany, France, and the U.K.), as well as the occasional younger couple on a romantic getaway. While the location doesn't allow much space for gardens, the hotel extends to lawned terraces overlooking the sea and its own small private beach, where guests can enjoy some of the best sunsets to be found on the island. 

The hotel is at the end of a quiet street in the district of Colonia de Sant Jordi, a bustling resort over the summer months that slips into a more sleepy fishing port for the rest of the year. While much of the surrounding coastline is rocky, it's just a five-minute walk to Es Trenc, a long stretch of largely unspoiled sandy beach. There are a handful of restaurants within a short stroll of the hotel, though most are located about 15 minutes' walk (or a five-minute cab ride) away in the town's port and marina neighborhood. Boats run regularly from the port of Colonia Sant Jordi (except in the winter) to the National Maritime Park of Cabrera, a small archipelago of islands around six miles to the south. It's also worth checking out secluded Es Carbó beach, 10 to 15 minutes away by car. The Majorcan capital of Palma and its airport are around 45 minutes away by road. 

The hotel has just 66 rooms split between standard Single and Double Rooms and Superior Rooms. While they are partly updated (with wood-effect floors and modern prints), standard rooms still feel largely dated, with old-fashioned wood furnishings and textured walls. Superior Rooms are larger and brighter with simple contemporary furnishings and coordinating fabrics. All rooms open to furnished balconies or terraces with sea views and superb sunsets. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and electronic safes (for a fee), plus Wi-Fi is available free of charge. Bathrooms are clean, if a little dated, with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and generic toiletries. Guests' main gripe about the rooms is that the beds are on the hard side, and are usually two singles pushed together. 

Most guests agree that food is a highlight at the Cabo Blanco. Breakfast is an impressive spread of quality items, and includes an omelet station and freshly squeezed orange juice. Evening menus are provided at breakfast for guests to choose their meals for (a five-course) dinner. Lunch is served a la carte in the bistro-style bar, and the hotel keeps an comprehensive cellar of local wines. Once a week is a gala dinner, and on our visit the evening buffet looked particularly impressive. All rates include breakfast or are half-board. Conversely, leisure facilities are pretty limited. There's with a small, peaceful pool long enough for a few strokes, plus tiered terraces with lounger and parasols overlooking the sea. A small gym is also available, and the hotel organizes guided walking and hiking tours of the surrounding area. There's no on-site parking, though a car park is nearby (for a fee).