The Cala Marsal is a mid-range, dated resort set on the outskirts of the Porto Colom fishing village, overlooking a picturesque sandy inlet of the same name. Once-lax building regulations have resulted in superb views from most of its 347 rooms -- spread over seven floors -- and the beach is just a short walk away. As there's just one buffet restaurant, the food, while decent enough, lacks finesse and mealtimes can get busy. Although there's no dedicated kids' club, poolside activities are child-focused, while a quieter second pool provides a more relaxing place to lounge. Couples looking for a totally child-free experience should take a look at the adult-only and all-around more stylish Ola Hotel El Vistamar.
The Cala Marsal is a mid-range, dated resort set on the outskirts of the Porto Colom fishing village, overlooking a picturesque sandy inlet of the same name. Once-lax building regulations have resulted in superb views from most of its 347 rooms -- spread over seven floors -- and the beach is just a short walk away. As there's just one buffet restaurant, the food, while decent enough, lacks finesse and mealtimes can get busy. Although there's no dedicated kids' club, poolside activities are child-focused, while a quieter second pool provides a more relaxing place to lounge. Couples looking for a totally child-free experience should take a look at the adult-only and all-around more stylish Ola Hotel El Vistamar.
Besides the pretty beach of Cala Marcal that's a few minutes' walk away, there's little that stands out at the lower-middle-range Ola Aparthotel Cecilia. The 143 units, which consist of Studios and One- and Two-Bedroom apartments, have kitchenettes, and balconies or terraces -- some with sea views. Though some have had their bedding and furniture updated, all are fairly underwhelming and have dated aspects. The pool area is pleasant, with an enthusiastic animation staff, as well as a splash section for children. The buffet dining, however, is nothing special, and the restaurant can feel a bit dingy. Travelers could also consider the Cala Marsal Hotel, which has two pool areas but no in-room cooking facilities.
Besides the pretty beach of Cala Marcal that's a few minutes' walk away, there's little that stands out at the lower-middle-range Ola Aparthotel Cecilia. The 143 units, which consist of Studios and One- and Two-Bedroom apartments, have kitchenettes, and balconies or terraces -- some with sea views. Though some have had their bedding and furniture updated, all are fairly underwhelming and have dated aspects. The pool area is pleasant, with an enthusiastic animation staff, as well as a splash section for children. The buffet dining, however, is nothing special, and the restaurant can feel a bit dingy. Travelers could also consider the Cala Marsal Hotel, which has two pool areas but no in-room cooking facilities.
The adult-only Hotel JS Cape Colom is a dated mid-range property, a short walk from Porto Colom's bay village. A largely British and European crowd come here for spectacular sea views and tranquility, and expansive terraces here don't disappoint. However, food is mediocre, and the 119 rooms are due for an upgrade with their old-fashioned linens, rattan furniture, and worn bathrooms. They come with flat-screen TVs and furnished balconies, plus sea views in some, but no mini-fridges and use of safes require fees. Two outdoor pools include a long lap one, and wellness amenities consists of massage rooms, tennis courts, and bright gym. Families should check out Ola Aparthotel Cecilia, where kids are welcome.
The adult-only Hotel JS Cape Colom is a dated mid-range property, a short walk from Porto Colom's bay village. A largely British and European crowd come here for spectacular sea views and tranquility, and expansive terraces here don't disappoint. However, food is mediocre, and the 119 rooms are due for an upgrade with their old-fashioned linens, rattan furniture, and worn bathrooms. They come with flat-screen TVs and furnished balconies, plus sea views in some, but no mini-fridges and use of safes require fees. Two outdoor pools include a long lap one, and wellness amenities consists of massage rooms, tennis courts, and bright gym. Families should check out Ola Aparthotel Cecilia, where kids are welcome.
For a solid and restful holiday in a beautiful setting just a 15-minute walk from a sandy beach, it's hard to go wrong with the Ola El Vistamar. Clean, modern guest rooms have balconies, but there are fees for safes and mini-fridges. There are lovely outdoor pools shaded by palm trees and lined with pretty stone walls, buffet-style Mallorcan cuisine in the restaurant, and tennis courts and bike rentals available. The hotel's adult-only policy makes it more peaceful and private than most Mallorca properties, and its somewhat remote location in a small fishing village on the eastern coast of the island offers a unique splash of cultural immersion. However, those interested in seeing more of the island should be prepared to rent a car or deal with pokey public transportation. Overall, the property is a touch more expensive, and a touch more upscale, than the nearby Cala Marsal.
For a solid and restful holiday in a beautiful setting just a 15-minute walk from a sandy beach, it's hard to go wrong with the Ola El Vistamar. Clean, modern guest rooms have balconies, but there are fees for safes and mini-fridges. There are lovely outdoor pools shaded by palm trees and lined with pretty stone walls, buffet-style Mallorcan cuisine in the restaurant, and tennis courts and bike rentals available. The hotel's adult-only policy makes it more peaceful and private than most Mallorca properties, and its somewhat remote location in a small fishing village on the eastern coast of the island offers a unique splash of cultural immersion. However, those interested in seeing more of the island should be prepared to rent a car or deal with pokey public transportation. Overall, the property is a touch more expensive, and a touch more upscale, than the nearby Cala Marsal.