Bahia Blanca

Originally opened in 1988, 110-apartment Bahia Blanca was one of the later hotels to be built in Puerto Rico. Despite the passage of three decades or so, it's kept with the times. Rustic gray stone walls, immaculate white stucco facades, and neatly manicured trees all lend the hotel an elegant, relaxed atmosphere that perfectly complements the area's ubiquitous sunshine. Apartments are staggered in a non-overlapping arrangement across multiple levels up the steep cliffside -- a striking architectural feat that, while occasionally confusing to navigate, provides panoramic sea views from nearly any spot on the property. A venture down its walkways feels like a tranquil stroll through a local village, with the sea always in sight, and the only sounds you’re likely to hear are chirping birds, plus the occasional passing staff member. Downstairs on the ground floor, things are slightly different: the pool is a lively, busy area packed with guests sunbathing, swimming, and lounging at the bar. There’s a constant stream of traffic and activity -- a sign of the hotel's popularity. It accommodates mostly families, couples, and the occasional business guest, including Scandinavians during winter and British guests year round. We saw people of all ages here, including children from large families.

As with many of the hotels in this dry, mountainous region, Bahia Blanca is carved into the cliffside, just across the road from the Atlantic Ocean. There are other hotels on neighboring cliffs, and the property is equidistant from Amadores Beach (a natural inlet with plenty of sunbeds) and Puerto Rico Beach (an artificial beach created for the tourist industry). Both are around a 10-minute walk away. Those who fancy doing a bit of shopping can head to the Europa Fashion Mall, a quick three-minute uphill drive. On Tuesdays, a local market selling handicrafts and local produce opens up in Arguineguin, a 12-minute drive by car. The airport is a 35-minute drive away, and the vibrant city of Las Palmas is roughly one hour from the hotel by car.

The 110 apartments all have a similar modern design, and are clean and well-maintained. Most have one bedroom and can accommodate up to four adults via sofa beds, while the few duplex two-bedroom apartments have a maximum capacity of six. Kitchens are much better equipped than at many other properties we visited on the island, and come complete with modern induction ranges and ovens, microwaves, kettles, dishwashers, and washing machines, plus basic cooking supplies, including freshly ground salt and pepper. There are also separate living areas with large flat-screen TVs showing satellite channels and DVD players. South-facing layouts mean ocean views are stellar, and apartments feature balconies or landscaped gardens. The latter not only get plenty of sun, but are furnished with sun loungers, tables, and umbrellas. All apartments also come with a variety of amenities, including air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, beach towels, and a welcome pack with basic essentials such as milk, bread, jams, tea and coffee, bottled water, and cleaning essentials. Bathrooms are spacious, and feature either stall showers or separate showers and tubs (in the Suites). Free toiletries and towels are provided. Keep in mind that not all apartments are accessible, as many floors have steps in the hallways despite elevator access to each floor. 

The main feature of this hotel is its pool, a busy area frequently packed with guests sunbathing, swimming, or lounging by the poolside bar -- which serves an all-day breakfast, as well as light snacks. A shallow section of the pool is reserved for kids, and the hotel provides daily kid-friendly activities, including musical chairs, volleyball, and darts. Other organized activities such as Spanish lessons, dance lessons, and water aerobics are available for adults. As with most resorts in southern Gran Canaria, the hotel offers evening entertainment five nights a week, including live music and singers.  The hotel serves a buffet breakfast at its restaurant, which is decent according to previous guests. There aren’t any all-inclusive plans, but dinner prices at the restaurant are reasonable, and the a la carte food is well-liked. Although there isn’t a spa, the hotel provides free access to its gym, tennis courts, sauna, and hot tub. An on-site mini-market is well-stocked with basics, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Public parking at the side of the hotel is free, but it may be a tricky to find a free spot at times.