Bahia de Pollensa Apartments

Occupying its own street block and tucked around the back is the entrance to the Bahia de Pollensa Aparthotel -- a tall portico flanked by manicured lawns and palm trees. The lobby is equally high, with floor-to-ceiling windows, cascading ivy, and red-and-white coordinating fabrics that create a bright and cheerful vibe. This low-rise, H-shaped apartment complex was built in the early '90s, however, much of the interiors remain firmly rooted in the 20th century. With no noisy poolside animation or background music, a peace and quiet generally pervades the complex, and there's a genuine emphasis on creating a friendly relationship between staff and guests. Although families do make up a large part of the clientele, its relaxed, laid-back atmosphere isn't necessarily the most child-friendly.

The hotel is located in a quiet residential area at the south end of Majorca's popular resort town of Port de Pollensa, in the northeast part of the island. It's set just two blocks or a three-minute walk from the seafront road that stretches along much of the resort and the wide strip of sandy beach overlooking Pollensa bay. There's very little in the immediate area in the way of dining, and the beachfront promenade lined with most of the resort's numerous restaurants starts a good 15-minute walk away. Around 20 minutes' drive is the unspoiled beach of Formentor, and stunning views from the headland beyond. Palma and its beautiful Old Town can be reached in just under an hour by car, as can the Palma de Mallorca Airport.

The complex has 137 air-conditioned studios and one-bedrooms apartments, most of which have dated interiors typical of the area. This includes veneered chipboard furniture, tile floors, and tired-looking coordinating fabrics; some also have signs of wear and tear. Premium apartments, however, have been updated with a more contemporary look. While studios combine sleeping, lounge, and kitchen areas, other apartments have separate kitchenettes, and premium units add separate bedrooms. Cooking facilities are fairly basic but sufficient, with fridges, microwaves, kettles, toasters, and electric hobs. All units open to balconies or terraces, either looking inwards to the pool or out over the (quiet) road, fields, and mountains beyond. Standard bathrooms are clean and functional, with shower/tub combos, while upgraded rooms have walk-in showers and hairdryers. Small flat-screen TVs (with deposit for remote) include a few English-speaking channels; in-room Wi-Fi is available, though fairly pricey and not very fast.

The hotel's outdoor pool has three parts and is large enough for the number of guests. There's a shallow section for tots, but some past guests have complained the main section is too deep for non-swimmers. A shortage of sun loungers can also be an issue during peak season and the building throws some shade early and late in the day. Entertainment is mostly contained to the evening, with the likes of parrot shows, flamenco dancers, live music, and bingo nights. There are also a small supermarket for supplies. There are no fitness facilities and almost no child-centric amenities, aside from a tiny playground.

The hotel's restaurant overlooks the pool and opens to an alfresco terrace. It serves buffet-style breakfast, a la carte lunch, and both buffet and a la carte at dinner. Food on a whole receives so-so reviews. A poolside bar also offers snacks throughout the day, including sandwiches and ice cream.