Exagon Park

Exagon Park's first point of distinction is certainly its playful and innovative architecture. Angular edges, hexagon-themed motifs, and unmistakably '60s design give the hotel a real retro-futurist look, albeit one that some will find dated. Inside, the lobby combines marble-clad columns, polished stone floors, and copper-tinted mirrors with modern seating and a pleasant array of subtropical flora. Just off reception, an attractive lounge with chandelier lighting has received a contemporary update (in 2016), though this largely contrasts with much of the property's old-fashioned, last-century look and feel. 

The complex is well-maintained, however, as well as featuring an impressive setting of 11 acres (44,000 square meters) of lush pine-scented gardens. Finding a peacefully secluded sunny or shaded spot among the rolling lawns, meandering footpaths, and numerous palm trees was easy on our visit, and the chirruping of the local birdlife adds to the calm atmosphere . This independent hotel is equally popular with couples as with families (we noticed strollers for rent in the lobby), with most clientele hailing from Britain and Germany; the property is also one of the island's most accessible for wheelchair users thanks to numerous ramps and multiple elevators, including one external from the gardens.

Situated in a residential neighborhood on the outskirts of the resort of Ca'n Picafort, the hotel is one of the more remote in the Alcudia Bay area. As well as making it particularly quiet, it is also surrounded by nature, overlooking the Son Baulo river and the Son Real nature reserve -- a vast swathe of pine forest brimming with birdlife. The pretty Playa De Son Baulo beach is less than 10 minutes' away on foot, together with the start of the long beachfront promenade and a handful of restaurants, bars, and shops. Low-key nightlife is a five-minute cab ride into the resort center, while buzzing Port d'Alcudia is a 20-minute drive away. The resort's tourist "train" also stops just outside the hotel and connects with most local attractions. Located at the opposite end of the island, however, the capital of Palma and its Palma de Mallorca Airport are up to an hour by road.

The hotel has 285 guest rooms spread over five floors consisting of standard-level singles, doubles, and family rooms. They were last fully renovated at the end of the millennium, and it shows in the old-fashioned wooden furniture, dated decor, and beige textured walls. Despite looking outdated, they are clean and well-maintained. All also open to balconies or terrace, with pool-view rooms on higher levels offering spectacular views over the neighboring pine forest. Others overlook the quiet street with partial sea views and out toward the mountains. 

In-room amenities don't particularly impressive, as they're limited to small 20-inch flat-screen TVs (with a few English speaking channels), empty mini-fridges, and old-style safes (for a fee). There are no coffee- and tea-making facilities -- though kettles are available on request -- and Wi-Fi is only free for one hour per day with a charge per device. Note that air-conditioning is only provided when it's over 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit). Family rooms add extra balconies, separate bedrooms, and sleep up to four guests. Bathrooms are functional with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and simple toiletries. 

The centerpiece of the hotel grounds is the huge lagoon-style swimming pool, with the unusual addition of a double-tiered fountain, plus the typical separate section for young children. Surrounding the pool and scattered around the ample gardens are up to several hundred loungers, meaning securing one is never an issue, plus the pool is large enough to never feel crowded. There's also a wellness center with a small heated indoor pool, whirlpool tub, sauna, and experience showers, plus massage services three days a week. As well as a game area and playground, a supervised kids' club keeps 4- to 12-year-olds entertained (over busier months). Sports facilities include archery, table tennis, and tennis (for a fee).

The hotel's buffet restaurant is bright and clean with large windows overlooking the neighboring forest and a spacious alfresco terrace. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served with some live cooking; quality of food is good, though variety could be improved and it can get busy at peak times. Breakfast is always included, with optional half-board and all-inclusive plans available. A poolside bar is open for lunch with a menu of snacks and fast food. Summer sees daily live shows on the outdoor stage that includes the likes of dancing, magicians, and acrobats.