MUR Hotel Neptuno Gran Canaria

Hotel Neptuno Gran Canaria is a bit of a mixed bag, though most things come together to make a stay here pleasant enough, provided expectations are managed. The building is clearly an older structure, and the exposed brick balconies give it an unfinished feel, but the property underwent extensive renovations in 2008 and it's well maintained. Interiors feature a funky mix of old and new elements, especially the reception hall, which has old-fashioned white and clay-colored veined floors, ornate crystal chandeliers, and a number of couches and chairs in bright red and sleek white. The overall feel is more classic than stylish and contemporary, but common spaces are clean and tidy, and large windows let in lots of sunlight. While nightlife is literally on the hotel’s doorstep, the adult-only policy, lack of bustling entertainment, and double glazing in rooms make this hotel relaxing and peaceful. 

The hotel is located on a quiet block a two-minute walk from a number of bars, restaurants, and small shops. A small door in the back of the property offers direct access to Yumbo Centrum, a busy mall home to several popular nightlife hotspots. There are plenty of other hopping clubs and bars within less a 10-minute walk of the property. The hotel provides free shuttle service several times a day to Playa del Ingles Beach and Maspalomas' lighthouse, beach, and dunes. It is also possible to walk to the Playa del Ingles' main beach in about 15 minutes. Maspalomas Golf Course and Aqualand water park can each be reached by car in about five minutes. Gran Canaria Airport is a 25-minute drive away, and transfers can be arranged for a fee at front desk.

The hotel’s 171 rooms are simple but contemporary, with colorful art on walls, cute flowery throw pillows, and red plastic chairs. The combination of dark tiled floors resembling parquet and large wooden headboards adds some elegance, though beige walls are a little bland. All rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, electric kettles, and air-conditioning, but there is a daily fee for use of safes, and robes and slippers are only available as part of the Deluxe package. Additionally, Wi-Fi is only free in the hotel's lobby. Large windows open onto spacious balconies furnished with dark wicker-resin chairs with white padding and a small table with an ashtray. Clean bathrooms have several appealing wood accents, including large mirror frames and small trays for toiletries, as well as large walk-in showers (most with rainfall showerheads) and hairdryers.

Hotel Neptuno Gran Canaria has a medium-sized pool with a smaller shallow area and a large water slide that's a holdover from before the hotel became an adult-only destination. The pool deck is dotted with dozens of loungers, but there have been complaints of guests reserving them with towels in the early morning. Lunch is served at the snack bar, located on a separate deck overlooking the pool complete with indoor and outdoor seating. Aside from the usual cocktails, the bar features a short food menu which includes Spanish specialties such as paella a few times a week. Breakfast and dinner are served at the buffet restaurant, but food gets mixed reviews. One of the most common complaints at the Neptuno is the seating system at the restaurant -- guests are assigned a table and a time slot for dinner on arrival, which many find restrictive. Also, many tables are shared with other guests, which makes some guests uncomfortable. All-inclusive and half-board rates are available.

Some of the other features at the hotel have seen better days. Blue linoleum floors and the lack of natural light make the fitness center feel vintage, and while there is a decent array of cardio and strength-training machines, as well as free weights, some of the equipment is rusted and worn. The spa is basic but features a massage cabin with an array of body treatments, a sauna, and a steam room. The hotel also offers free parking on-site. Free shuttles run to the beach and Maspalomas. Wi-Fi is only free in the hotel's lobby.