Hoposa Niu Hotel

Opened as the Pension Niu way back in 1928, this charming seafront hotel lays claim as one of the oldest guesthouses in Majorca. And with just 24 rooms spread over two floors (and a small annex), it also qualifies amongst some of the island's smallest. Now part of the mini-chain of Hoposa hotels, this bijou property was given a thorough update in 2015, yet is has managed to retain a traditional feel. Terra-cotta tiling, antique furniture, and marble staircase contrast with modern white seating and a tufted-leather paneled front desk in the diminutive reception area. Most of the property continues in the same vein, with light contemporary furnishings set against a backdrop of original features and traditional Majorcan ikat fabrics. 

While not child-free, the atmosphere is certainly adult-oriented. Guests are more or less content to sit back and enjoy the sea views from vantage points that include a small rooftop pool terrace and a tiered front patio directly overlooking the beach. Sadly, though, the comparatively gargantuan Sentido Don Pedro just opposite robs the Hoposa Niu Hotel of a considerable chunk of the view. The intimate vibe and friendly staff add to the welcoming and personal atmosphere, usually accompanied by a sea breeze, subtle scent of salty brine, and soft crashing of the nearby waves. 

The hotel overlooks one of two main beaches (Cala Barques) in the small resort of Cala San Vincent, located in the northeastern corner of the island. The larger beach, Cala Molins, is just under five minutes' walk away and you can pretty much walk around the village in the same time. There are a handful of decent restaurants within a short stroll, as well as grocery stores and a couple of bars -- though don't expect much in the way of nightlife. The pretty town of Pollensa -- with its cobbled streets -- is about 15 minutes' drive away, while the popular resort of Port de Pollensa is about the same distance. About 25 minutes' drive away is the unspoiled beach of Formentor and accompanying stunning views. Palma and its beautiful Old Town, as well as Palma de Mallorca Airport, can be reached in just under an hour by car. 

Of the 24 guest rooms, all but one suite are doubles, with eight opening to balconies with views of the sea. All units benefitted from the 2015 makeover -- interiors are bright and clean, with wood-effect flooring, a muted palette of beige and grays, and distressed wood accents. While most non-sea view rooms extend to outdoor space with bamboo seating, not all do.

A good range of amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, minibars (with beer, water, coke, and snacks), and electric kettles, plus free electronic safes and in-room Wi-Fi, which worked well on our visit. Larger than average beds and pillow menus aid a restful night. Bathrooms are tidy and modern, if some a little small, with walk-in showers, hotel-brand toiletries, and wall-mounted hairdryers. Suites add bathrobes and slippers.

Breakfast is always included in the room rate, served in a small but bright dining room. The modest but quality buffet includes precooked (eggs, bacon, sausages, beans) and continental items. Coffee is from a bean-to-cup machine, though there's no live cooking. Most guests take it out to one of the tiered alfresco terraces directly overlooking the sea. An a la carte menu is also offered for lunch and dinner, with fresh fish and paella, as well as burgers and sandwiches. Most agree food is generally of very high standard. Room service is available throughout the day and evening, with a break between lunch and dinner. There's also a bar downstairs that opens to a sea-view terrace, though no live music (and certainly no animation program). The hotel's rooftop terrace also offers some fine panoramic views, with a small pool to cool off in and a smattering of loungers. There's no gym or spa facilities, but the hotel has a pleasant TV lounge with internet corner, and Wi-Fi is free throughout. The biggest drawback is that the hotel lacks a fitness center and doesn't offer spa services.