Maspalomas Resort By Dunas

Set in over 18 acres of gardens dotted with flowers, cacti and palm trees, the Dunas Maspalomas is one of the more appealing upper-middle-range apartment properties in the area -- but that's not to say that we're talking high style here. Rather, it's refreshing to not have to pay for Wi-Fi and to have solid dining options. Style-wise, this hotel is a blend of modern and dated decor. Its 207 bungalows are housed in charming Mediterranean-inspired stand-alone buildings with terra-cotta tile roofs and arched windows with stone and wooden accents. The lobby is simple, with a large skylight and cushioned wicker furniture -- not the kind of place anyone would hang out for long stretches of time. Gaudi-inspired tile-work on pillars and walls adds some style against the dated terrazzo floors and the overall simple decor style. The grounds offer big lawns and decks for relaxing and socializing, including four pool areas with plenty of loungers and umbrellas -- they are busy throughout the day in high season. Most guests at the Dunas Maspalomas are European couples and families, and while the entertainment program is mostly geared towards French travelers, translations are generally available. 

Located in a quiet residential area adjacent to Maspalomas Golf Course, the Dunas Maspalomas is surrounded by other resorts and private homes. While there isn’t much of interest within easy walking distance, the hotel is a five-minute drive from the beach and Maspalomas' lighthouse (as well as its famous dunes), and there's free shuttle service throughout the day. It is also possible to walk to the beach in about 20 minutes, and shopping, restaurants, and bars proliferate along the waterfront promenade. Playa del Ingles -- a livelier area full of bars, restaurants and shops -- is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Gran Canaria Airport is 25 minutes away by car. Free (but limited) outdoor parking is available at the hotel. 

The hotel has 207 air-conditioned apartments ranging from one-bedroom units for two adults and two kids, to three-bedrooms for up to seven guests. All have simple decor in a brown palette in bedrooms, and beachy wicker furniture with striped cushions in living areas. While not particularly stylish, units look put together and homey, though with just a few pieces of overdone floral artwork on the otherwise bare walls (and an abundance of light granite), the look is spartan and not altogether fresh. All apartments feature separate living areas, furnished patios, and kitchenettes equipped with cooktops, microwaves, sinks, and pots and pans. Each unit has a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and free, strong Wi-Fi, but there is a fee for use of in-room safes. Suite Premium apartments have somewhat more contemporary decor in a softer palette, as well as a few extras, including robes and slippers, two TVs, and loungers on the patio. Bathrooms are spacious and clean, with wall-mounted hairdryers and basic toiletries in small packets. Most units have shower/tub combos, but Suites feature large walk-in showers. 

Like almost all hotels in this part of Gran Canaria, there are a number of features, all geared toward family-friendly holidays. Still, some are a bit limited in their appeal. The hotel has four pools, including a main one with activities and a bar, a quieter one with lots of loungers and umbrellas, and two kiddy pools. There is daily entertainment for all ages, but although there are English translations, it is mostly geared toward French guests. Babysitting services can be arranged for a fee, and there's a kids’ club with indoor and outdoor areas, toys, and games. The main restaurant serves buffet-style meals, and its themed nights get especially good reviews. All-inclusive rates are available. Guests can also order fast food items, snacks, and drinks at the pool bar, which has outdoor seating. The hotel also features two on-site tennis courts, and offers free access to its neighboring sister property’s salon, small fitness center, and arcade. Free Wi-Fi and free outdoor parking are also available.