Artiem Audax Adults Only

The scent of lemon makes an appropriately zingy backdrop to a bright and fresh reception area upon first setting foot inside the Artiem Audax. Splashes of lime and potted greenery also pop against a background of crisp whites and polished gray marble, adding to the contemporary, upscale feel that continues throughout the hotel. In fact, there's little remnants of the property's '70s origins, thanks largely to an extensive top-to-bottom renovation completed in 2015. The C-shaped hotel's seven floors are built into a steep hillside and topped by a sunny and spacious tiered terrace that overlooks the picturesque bay. 

An adult-only (16 and over) policy makes for a more peaceful and grown-up vibe than, say, the more family-friendly Melia Cala Galdana opposite. And while many hotel's pay lip service to environmental issues, the Artiem Audax has a particularly pronounced ethos with all things eco-friendly. Professional staff are briefed to be informal and approachable, while a strong focus on health and wellbeing takes the form of impressive spa and sports facilities. Activity-inclined couples make a good share of the clientele, mostly Brits and Germans, as well as older vacationers content just soaking up the sun around the child-free pool.

The hotel is set into a hillside overlooking a small marina and river that runs into the gorgeous Cala Galdana bay -- making it particularly well-placed for water sports. Just a few minutes' walk away over a footbridge, 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 -- with families with young children. There are several restaurants and shops dotted around the immediate area, though any local nightlife is very low-key and tends to be limited to the hotels. Located just over halfway up the island's south coast, it's 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.

The 240 rooms and suites break down to around eight different categories, ranging from a handful of interior-facing, balcony-free rooms to top-end junior suites with spacious terraces and lovely sea views. All interiors have benefitted from an update between 2013-17, giving them a fresh, modern feel that combines wood flooring, simple contemporary furniture, and splashes of the hotel's signature green. Subtle signs give guests tips and reminders how they can be environmentally friendly in the rooms. Most open to balconies or terraces with sea, garden, or pool views, while Lemon Rooms extend to private patios with lemon trees (though little in the way of views). Average measurements hover around 260 square feet (24 square meters), making rooms generally a decent size, though some do feel small.

Standard amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs (with a handful of U.K.-based channels), well-stocked minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities (with espresso machines in suites), and digital safes (for a fee). Quality mattresses, soundproof headboards, and pillow menus all help contribute to a decent night's sleep. Wi-Fi is free of charge and video-streaming quality. Bathrooms are clean and smart, featuring walk-in showers (with large rainfall and directional heads), wall-mounted but quality toiletries, and hairdryers. Upgraded rooms and suites add jetted tubs in the bathrooms -- some with sea vistas -- while others are located behind the bed. 

Relaxation and leisure facilities on offer at the Artiem Audax are certainly some of the best in the area. Firstly, their spa is one of the island's largest, and the only featuring a thermal circuit, which includes various temperature-controlled and aqua-massage zones. There's also an impressive choice of experience showers, saunas and steam rooms, an indoor/outdoor pool, and wide range of massage treatments. The only snag is entry is not free of charge. The main pool is spread over two tiers, with an infinity edge and sea views, plus plenty of loungers (with waiter service) and a few Bali beds -- for a fee, but with a glass of chilled fizz. There's no noisy poolside animation, as activities on offer are more focused on exploring the area by both sea (kayaking) and land (biking and guided hiking); free yoga and pilates sessions are also available and there's a decently equipped gym.

A buffet breakfast is always included in the rate, and also stands out as a hotel highlight; a wide range includes eggs and pancakes cooked-to-order, freshly squeezed juice, and coffee served to the table. The two main eateries -- Oliva and Galadana -- both offer buffet dining with a 10-day rotating menu that focuses on Mediterranean cooking and local ingredients. A poolside bar offers snacks and light meals a la carte, specializing in smoothies and the occasional barbecue. A lounge bar also serves a continental breakfast from a sea-view terrace, which becomes a great spot for a sundowner cocktail accompanied by live music. Half-board and full-board plans are also available, and the consensus points to excellent food quality (though drinks can be pricey).