Globales Apartamentos Verdemar

Of the numerous seventies-era apartment-hotels that line this side of town, Globales Apartamentos Verdemar certainly stands out as one of the better options. This is thanks in no small part to extensive renovations completed in 2015 that included a fresh lick of paint and a refit of its apartments. There are still some of dated elements inside -- such as drab granite floors and textured walls -- the reception and most of the public spaces have been largely updated enough to feel modern. The property is spread over seven floors (served by three elevators) one side of which overlooks Santa Ponsa Bay, and includes a sunny seafront pool terrace. The vibe is mostly laid-back, with the summer months getting a little livelier when vacationing couples are joined by families with kids. However, it rarely sees the rowdy groups that frequent nearby Apartamentos Deya.

The hotel overlooks the north side of Santa Ponsa's bay on the southwest side of Majorca. Neighbors include other hotels and tourist restaurants, and just down the hill are nightclubs and late-night bars (many of which are Irish-themed). While it sits next to the sea, there is no beach at the hotel -- that's a 10-minute walk away and the promenade is lined with more bars and eateries. The renowned nightlife of Magaluf is a 10-minute cab journey away, while at the other end of the scale, the small quiet cove of Calo d'en Pellicer is a five-minute drive away. Farther afield, the charming cobbled streets of Palma's Old Town are under a 30-minute drive, and Palma de Mallorca Airport is around the same distance.

The complex has 197 apartments, the last of which were updated in 2015. All are have a fresh, modern style that includes wood-effect floors, simple contemporary furniture, and color scheme that incorporates blue patterned fabrics with seascape art prints. Units are either studio or one-bedroom, with living or sleeping areas that include kitchenettes with fridges, (old) electric stovetops, kettles, and toasters, plus small dining areas. All open to furnished terraces or balconies, some with disappointing streets views (a handful face wall) while most overlook the sea. Premium-level rooms have huge sea-view terraces. Amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs (with four U.K.-based channels that includes one for kids), air-conditioning, and old-style safes (for a fee); in-room Wi-Fi is also available for a charge, though it's not very fast. Bathrooms are clean and modern, with shower cubicles, wall-mounted hairdryers, and simple sachet toiletries.

The hotel's highlight is by far its sea-view pool, which is large enough for a swim and includes a separate section for kids; direct access to the sea is possible from the jetty, though there is no beach on-site. There's also a waterfront sun terrace and lawn with loungers and tiki-style parasols, though they fill up quickly and are not free of charge. A poolside bar is open serving drinks and snacks, as well as breakfast on an alfresco terrace (not included). An a la carte restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner, though most guests prefer to eat out. An activities program is fairly low-key and largely focused on kids, while evening entertainment takes the form of quizzes, bingo, and cabaret tribute acts. Wi-Fi is free for 30 minutes per day in public areas.