FERGUS Style Palmanova

It's hard not to be impressed when first walking into the Fergus Style Palmanova. Sunlight filtering through the glass ceiling and pool above creates a lovely effect of rippling light around the small reception area, giving the feeling of being underwater. A pair of hanging wicker chairs and chill music adds to the soothing, relaxed vibe. The hotel's 2016 revamp brought immaculately updated interiors throughout and a beach house ambience, with white-slated paneling, traditional Majorcan ikat-fabrics, and lots of natural wood. Renovations also included adding an extra accommodation block and remodeling the upper-level pool terrace. Another significant change is that the hotel became adults-only, and it's one of the resort's more boutique-style properties. It attracts couples looking for a grown-up, mellow atmosphere. 

The Fergus Style Palmanova has a prime location overlooking one of three sandy beaches in the popular resort of Palmanova on Majorca's southwest coast. The hotel has a key-card side entrance, meaning guests have direct access to the beachfront without walking through reception. While positioned at the quieter end of town, it's set on a beachfront promenade lined with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops (mostly catering to the British vacationers who visit each year). Those looking for something more than Palmanova's low-key nightlife have the wild party resort of Magaluf just five minutes away by cab. The more civilized cobbled streets of Palma's Old Town are about a 25-minute drive, with Palma de Mallorca Airport a little farther.

The 93 guest rooms, all fresh from renovation, are split between two buildings and follow the hotel's beach house motif, with natural wood-slate walls and traditional Majorcan ikat prints. The five categories start with the Standard rooms, located at the rear of the hotel overlooking the street, up to fabulously airy suites opening to full frontal sea-view terraces with whirlpool tubs and Bali beds. Swim-up rooms also have terraces with semi-submerged loungers and direct pool access (though this pool can also be used by other guests, which can result in privacy issues). Similar to suites, Superior rooms feature sea views and whirlpool tubs, but from separate, upper-level rooftop terraces. 

Standard amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and coffee- and tea-making facilities (with pod espresso machines, though refill pods cost extra). In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge and works well; digital safes in most rooms, however, come with a fee attached. Bathrooms are have a semi-open plan -- so not ideal for non-couples -- with walk-in rainfall showers, hotel-brand toiletries, and quality hairdryers. All units also come with bathrobes and slippers. While some occasional noise can be heard toward the rear of the hotel, most rooms are surprisingly quiet. 

There isn't a ton of outdoor space at this hotel, although the Fergus Style Palmanova makes the most of what it has. The upper-level sun terrace is a particularly attractive space that fits in two fairly small circular pools, plenty of loungers (with drinks service), a handful of daybeds (free of charge), and a poolside bar. These pool are for cooling off while enjoying the sea view, while a narrow lap pool lining the other building is better for swimming. No animation program keeps things peaceful and laid-back. There's also free entry to a modest spa, with a small jetted pool and a couple of treatment rooms, though the hotel lacks a fitness center. 

The main dining rooms is bright and pleasant, offering an excellent buffet breakfast with detox smoothies, fresh juices, and bean-to-cup coffee machines, plus the option of freshly made eggs and chilled Cava. A partially covered garden terrace provides alfresco seating, and dinner is served as part of an optional half-board plan (breakfast is always included). Most guests agree food is good quality, though it could be kept hotter. There's also a street front bar-restaurant that's open to the public, offering an a la carte menu of tapas, wraps, and burgers, with live music several times a week. Room service is available until late in the evening, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.