Cala Di Volpe Boutique Hotel

First things first: This is not a boutique hotel. That fact aside, though, the property is a pleasant, well-liked, mid-size hotel that looks very traditional from top to bottom. The big glass chandelier, marble tile floors, electronic tablets scattered about the lobby, and antique furniture and art create an up-market vibe in what is otherwise a simple property, though the look overall is a bit dated. Still, this is a popular hotel with travelers of all stripes, helped in large part by its prime location on Montevideo's waterfront promenade. 

Cala di Volpe is in the chic Punta Carretas neighborhood, just across the street from the Rambla, or promenade, along Montevideo’s coast. There are plenty of dining and nightlife options within a five-minute walk, including La Perdiz, Gluck, and Bar Tabare. The Punta Carretas shopping mall is also a five-minute walk from the hotel, as is the bustling Avenida 21 de Septembre -- one of the city's main commercial thoroughfares. Pocitos, a neighborhood that's popular with ex-pats and is filled with more bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, is a 10-minute taxi ride from the hotel. The sights of Ciudad Vieja aren't within walking distance, but can be reached via taxi in 15 minutes. The city's main bus terminal is about 15 minutes away by car for connections to other parts of the country, while the ferry terminal for trips to Buenos Aires is a 10- to 15-minute drive from the hotel. Carrasco International Airport takes 30 minutes to reach by taxi. 

Much like the hotel's traditional common areas, the rooms here don't quite live up to the boutique hotel claims made by the hotel. They are pleasant and simple, but decor is straightforward and unmemorable. Rooms have subtly patterned carpets and white-on-white striped wallpaper, with mid-tone wood furniture that's slightly dated. Higher category rooms have slightly more distinctive design features like shimmery taupe accent walls with damask patterns in Superior Rooms. Red bed runners provide a pop of color on white-linened beds. Many rooms have lovely ocean views, and requesting a room on one of the higher floors guarantees a quieter stay (the hotel is located on a busy street). All rooms feature minibars, 32-inch flat-screen TVs, desks, safes, and air-conditioning, while some of the suites have large balconies. Bathrooms are also outdated, with vinyl tiling, old fixtures and hardware, spacious granite vanities, and shower/tub combos. Those who care about space might want to upgrade to a Corner Suite, as the views are excellent from here.

A breakfast buffet is included in the rate and is served at Azzuro Restaurant. There is a wide selection to choose from, including pastries, breads, waffles, and fresh fruit. The restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner, with a menu that blends Uruguayan classics and international fare. One authentically Uruguayan perk is the daily afternoon tea service complete with homemade cakes. The modern fitness center is on a sunny top floor and features great sea views, up-to-date machines, and free weights. There’s also a small indoor hot tub surrounded by lounge chairs and soft towels for guests next door. While there’s no official business center, there are several meeting rooms available for rental, and a handful of HP tablets in the lobby that guests are free to use. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, but it can be spotty. The hotel's front desk is staffed 24 hours a day and can provide concierge services.