Aparthotel Floramar

A nondescript low-rise building with cream weather-worn facade certainly doesn't inspire much enthusiasm upon arrival at the Aparthotel Floramar. Updated in 2016, however, the lobby is fresh, modern, and uncluttered with colorful abstract artworks, polished marble floors, and a simple clean-lined front desk. Although, exploring farther into the property it is soon evident the refit wasn't hotel-wide, as hallways, stairwells, and other public areas feel dated and even shabby in places. We spotted a few bird's nests on walkways during our visit, which are protected by law but can look messy. Built in an elongated U-shape with lots and steps, we found the layout could also be confusing and certainly not ideal for those with mobility issues. 

The property encloses a small tropical garden that's home to a number of turtles. One side of the property overlooks the hotel's sunny pool terrace, fringed with lawns and a chain-link fence, beyond which are beautiful views of Cala Galdana's turquoise bay. The atmosphere on our visit was relaxed and unpretentious, and the all-apartment hotel is mostly popular with families, predominantly from the U.K., but also a with fair share of Germans and Spanish.

The hotel is located close to the top of a steep hill that runs down into the picturesque bay of Cala Galdana. About 10 minutes by foot, the beach is a lovely wide crescent of white sand with calm crystal-clear waters that slope gently out, making it perfect -- and particularly popular -- for families with young children. Some struggle with the climb back from beach to hotel. The immediate area has a few tourist shops, restaurants, and supermarkets, with more eateries at the bottom of the hill around the marina (including the super child-friendly Tobogan restaurant with waterslides and splash pool). Located just over halfway up the island's south coast, the hotel is about a 35-minute drive to Minorca's capital, Mahon, and a 25 minutes' by road to the islands other city, Ciutadella. Ferries are available from either to both Majorca and mainland Spain, while Menorca International Airport is 30 minutes by car.

Most of the 78 studio and one- and two-bedrooms apartments received a much-needed update in 2015-16, and feature a fresh contemporary feel with simple modern furniture, a cool white-gray finish, and some with wood flooring. A number, however, do remain dated with tired furnishings and old-fashioned fabrics. All open to balconies with patio furniture, and Superior apartments overlook the pool with partial sea views beyond. Many look toward the road, however, and are prone to some street noise. Studio apartments are a good size for couples, while two-bedroom units sleep up to five adults (or four adults and two children).

All apartments are air-conditioned and come with kitchenettes that include electronic hobs, microwaves, fridges, kettles, and cookware, plus the newer units have coffee machines. Lounges have dining areas, sofa beds, and 32-inch flat-screen TVs with a few English-speaking channels (including BBC1 and BBC2). Both safes and Wi-Fi are charged. While some of the bathrooms are smart and contemporary with large walk-in showers, others are old-fashioned with shower/tub combos; all have hairdryers and generic toiletries. 

The Aparthotel Floramar has most of the facilities you might expect in a resort-style hotel, though much of it looks in need of refresh. The pool terrace is pleasant enough with a separate splash pool for kids, though the main pool is relatively small. Sports facilities include two squash courts, one with basketball hoops, plus there are a game room with pool and ping-pong, and a bright fitness room, though it all feels a little neglected. There's also a spacious, soft-play room for children, though no supervised kids' club; dedicated animation staff do provide plenty of activities throughout the day for younger guests. Although no dedicated spa, there is a whirlpool tub room extravagantly decorated by a local artist.

Meal plans range from room-only up to all-inclusive, and everything in-between. The buffet restaurant opens to a poolside terrace and serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner; live cooking provides freshly cooked eggs and pancakes in the morning, and meat and fish dishes for other meals. A weekly barbecue (extra fee) also features free sangria. Opinions vary between guests on the quality of the food, though most agree it's adequate for the price you pay. The hotel bar offers a good cocktail menu, including daily cocktail offers, as well as a good list of coffee. Professional cover bands provide twice-weekly evening entertainment. Free Wi-Fi is available around the reception area.