Hotel Gran Sol

The architecture of the Hotel Gran Sol Ibiza isn't stunning, but the bright-white exterior is well-maintained and clean looking. The interior has more personality, featuring beige-tile floors topped with contemporary blue chairs, blue-and-white painted bamboo accents, and wooden coffee tables. A separate area features light-brown chairs, a flat-screen TVs, and generic modern art along the walls. Throughout the property, the colors are warm and neutral, and the design is mostly modern, aside from the hallways with dated tiling and wood paneling. Most guests tend to stick to the outdoor pool and lawn area, or head to San Antonio's nearby beaches and hot spots. The vibe is generally quiet and laid-back, and clientele is predominantly young groups of friends and couples.

Hotel Gran Sol Ibiza is located on a quiet street just outside of San Antonio's bustling West End. It's a nine-minute walk to the Sunset Strip, which is home to hot spots such as Mint Lounge, Cafe Mambo, and Savannah Beach Club. Plenty of restaurants and bars are within walking distance, with popular options being Fatso's Cafe (three-minute walk) and Rita's Cantina (11 minutes by foot).

Since there is no direct beach access from the hotel, guests can walk five minutes to the nearby Calo Des Moro beach. Tourist attractions within driving distance include Port de Sant Miguel Beach (33 minutes), Hippy Market (34 minutes), and Sa Talaiassa (30 minutes).

Also undergoing a 2013 renovation, the air-conditioned rooms have a minimal but contemporary design featuring two-tone wood furniture, a neutral color scheme of beige walls, white bedding, and decorative brown throw pillows and bed runners. A much needed pop of color can be found in the sunset print hung above the bed. Sliding glass doors let in lots of light and lead to furnished balconies. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, free Wi-Fi, and free safes. Bathrooms are straightforward, outfitted with granite sinks, shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and free bath products. Rooms will either have one double bed, or two single beds pushed together, and cots are available upon request. 

A hotel in Ibiza without beach access is going to need a stand-out pool. Hotel Gran Sol Ibiza's pool is a decent-size, featuring a shallow section for kids on one side and a whirlpool on the other, plus it's surrounded by ample loungers and umbrellas. It's not quite a standout, but the surrounding wooden deck is aesthetically pleasing. There is a grassy area to the side of the pool for lounging, too, and it sits next to a tennis court -- note that rackets require a fee. Gran Sol lacks a gym, and aside from the pool, there are no kid-centric facilities.

Guests do generally rave about the food served at the on-site restaurant for all three meals. Meals are served buffet-style, and bed-and-breakfast and half-board rates are available. The bar has indoor seating and additionally opens to a poolside patio with a billiards table. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property and the lobby has two computers with internet access, a cellphone charging station, and a printer for guest use.