Catalonia Mirador des Port

Faded, weatherworn signage on the side of the Catalonia Mirador des Port hardly makes for the best first impression, neither does an unassuming staircase down toward reception make it too inviting. The lobby area, however, is pleasant enough with a combination of comfy rattan seating, polished sand-tone marble, potted plants, and the usual chain hotel trappings. Sunlight is provided by a wide arched window that slides open to a small terrace and to the property's main draw -- fabulous views over Mahón's grand harbor. The reception and the dining room are on the second floors, with a pair of elevators connecting five levels in all. While smart and well-maintained, lack of natural light means hallways can feel a little gloomy. Brighter outdoor can be found in gardens surrounding the hotel's pool, with tall hedges, palm trees, and shrubbery providing a secluded -- if a little unkempt -- place to relax in the sun. Clientele are mostly vacationing couples using the property as a base to explore the city. It's also popular with hiking and cycling groups in the slighter cooler months (the hotel is open year-round).

The hotel is located in a quiet and residential neighborhood on the outskirts of Mahon city center and overlooking the start of its huge harbor. While there's nothing of interest in the immediate area, it's an easy five to 10 minutes on foot to the charming old town, tourist attractions, and pretty shopping streets. Around 15 minutes' walk is the main ferry port -- with boats to Majorca and mainland Spain -- plus a restaurant-lined quayside promenade. There's plenty of free parking on the surrounding streets, though finding a spot can get tricky during high season. Its position puts it within 15 minutes' drive of one of the north coast's prettiest beaches, Sa Mesquida. Menorca Airport is also just 10 minutes by car.

Partially renovated in 2016, the hotel's 73 guest rooms mix IKEA-style contemporary furniture and lighting with more dated elements such as gray marble floors and old-fashioned varnished-wood furnishings. While entry-level rooms look over the quiet street, most provide some kind of view over the harbor, with some corner rooms featuring expansive views. Premium rooms also have updated parquet floors and open to harbor-view terraces -- though don't expect much privacy from neighboring rooms. Sizes vary from slightly cramped 215 square feet (20 square meters) to a roomy 320 square feet (30 square meters) at the higher end. 

Standard amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and free safes; coffee- and tea-making facilities are provided in sea-view and Premium rooms. Premium perks also include larger TVs and bathrobes. Wi-Fi is free of charge and generally works well. Units are kept cool by both air-conditioning and ceiling fans. Bathrooms are mostly simple, bright, and clean, with shower/tub combos (with flimsy shower curtains), wall-mounted hairdryers, and hotel-brand toiletries; tiles could use replacing in some bathrooms, though Premium-level bathrooms are finished in fancy green marble with roomy walk-in showers and some added products.

The Catalonia Mirador des Port has a modest selection of dining and leisure facilities, though enough to satisfy the average guests who tend to spend the day away from the hotel. Breakfast is always included and covers a good range of hot and cold items (cold cuts, cheese, bread, fruit, cereal), plus fresh juices, bean-to-cup coffee machines, and a live cooking station offering freshly made eggs, omelets, and pancakes. An optional half-board rate includes a set three-course menu; reports suggest food quality can be inconsistent though the restaurant features fabulous views over the harbor. No lunchtime menu is available and, while there is a bar, it doesn't open until the evening. The restaurant also only opens seasonally (April to September). A simple room service menu is available during the busier months (otherwise local pizza and sushi restaurants can deliver)

An outdoor pool is large enough for a swim, with a separate splash area for kids, and plenty of sun loungers and two Bali beds. While the surrounding gardens provide a feeling of seclusion, they're not particularly well maintained. There's a relaxation zone on the lower level, with large heated whirlpool tub and thermal loungers, plus massages can be booked in advance; new for 2017 is a small fitness room with a bike, cross-trainer, and free weights. Wi-Fi is free throughout.