Smartline Cala'n Bosch

Dating back to the early '70s, this was the first purpose-built hotel in Cala'n Bosch resort, and its latest incarnation is part of Thomas Cook's value-oriented Smartline chain. Renovations completed in 2015 have spruced up the reception area with a modern look that combines contemporary furnishings with the brand's signature yellow and splashes of pink. A pair of old-fashioned elevators and dated stairs do detract from the otherwise cheerful and modern look and feel. Few steps and lots of ramps make navigating the property easy for clientele that tend to be older couples off-season and younger families during the busier school breaks (though some struggle with strollers and heavy elevator doors). The layout is unfussy, too. It's a six-story block overlooking parking on one side and a spacious pool terrace on the other, with a small tidy garden area in between. An all-inclusive plan as standard also keeps it simple -- though premium upgrades are available -- and the atmosphere is unpretentious and low-frills. While French vacationers make up a large part of the clientele, we heard mainly British accents during our visit.  

The hotel is located in the laid-back, family-friendly resort area of Cala'n Bosch, overlooking the pretty sandy beach of the same name that sits just to the side. The resort's marina is a couple minutes' walk away, and lined with restaurants, low-key bars, and amusements, plus a small shopping area and water-sports center. The Aquarock waterpark is less than 10 minutes on foot and free to guests. A tourist train also runs around the resort and into neighboring Son Xoriguer, which also has a beach. Located on the southwest corner of the island, the picturesque city of Ciutadella is a 15-minute drive away, while it's about a 50-minute drive to Minorca's capital, Mahón. Ferries are available to both Majorca and mainland Spain, while Menorca International Airport is up to an hour's drive. 

The Smartline Cala'n Bosch has 188 guest rooms, all largely identical with basic and unfussy interiors that were updated in 2015. They combine wood-veneer floors, simple IKEA-style furniture, and back-lit paneling. Glowing bedside cubes and directional spot reading lights add to a modern and minimal look that can feel sparse. Swing doors open to balconies with patio seating, with most from the third floor and up offering pool and sea views; others look out to the marina though some lower-level ones just overlook the parking lot. 

Rooms are all individually air conditioned, and include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and old-style key safes (for a fee). In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge, though don't expect a speedy connection. Although there's no tea- or coffee-making facilities, electric kettles are available on request (for a fee). Bathrooms are clean and fairly modern, with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and simple packets of toiletries. 

With its wraparound windows and fresh contemporary update, the hotel's dining room provides a bright and modern space serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. (All-inclusive rates are standard, see below.) Breakfast is a decent mix of Full English items such as eggs, bacon, and sausage, plus pastries, cereals, breads, and fruit. Coffee could be improved, and juice is from machines. A chef grills fresh fish and meat for lunch and dinner, and there's generally a good variety. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are all self-service. Snacks such as sandwiches, burgers, and chips are served between meals. A poolside bar is open all day and into the evening during peak season, while a lounge bar offers daily evening entertainment.

The main pool is your standard rectangular affair, and fairly small for the size of the hotel, though finding a free lounger is rarely a problem. Direct access to the beach certainly also helps mitigate crowding over peak season. A separate jungle-themed splash pool was added in 2016 and includes three waterslides and other fun water features, and is surrounded by a tidy lawn for parents to watch their kids from loungers. There's also a playground, a full program of activities, and a daily kids' club that includes a mini-disco. Sports from football and basketball to archery and ping-pong are also organized, plus regular exercise classes are offered. Guests also have free access to the resort's waterpark (over selected dates). Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, though it's spotty and slow.

The standard all-inclusive rate includes buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which covers live cooking and self-service mineral water, soft drinks, local beer, and wine. A trolley service of snacks including ice-cream, fresh fruit, tea and coffee are served between mealtimes. A range of soft drinks -- including slushies for kids -- and local alcoholic drinks including spirits and selected cocktails are covered, too. All kids' clubs, most sports activities, and entertainment is also part of the standard package. A premium plan is also available which adds international and branded drinks, plus a greater choice of cocktails.