Alua Soul Mallorca Resort

Almost the mirror image of its sister hotel opposite (the Marina Corfu), the all-inclusive Hotel Marina Skorpios occupies a large, whitewashed property built in the 1960s with gleaming rows of distinctive semicircular balconies. Interiors, conversely, are largely uninspiring and include a plain and dated lobby that, unlike the sister property, lacks cove views. Though primarily popular with families, there is a peaceful pool terrace and an adult-only section for those in upgraded rooms.

The hotel's main advantage over its competitors is that it was built before restrictions were put in place about how close buildings can be to the sea, and more modern properties are set farther back. The property also overlooks a lively pool and entertainment area shared with the Marina Corfu. A full renovation and modernization of the complex is due for completion before summer season 2017, at which point it is slated to reopen as an upscale adult-only hotel.

The hotel is set right on pretty Cala Egos beach in the tourist area of the same name, just south of Cala D'or and across from its marina. The neighborhood is almost entirely geared toward summer vacationers, and is practically closed over the winter months. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops within a short stroll of the hotel, though the atmosphere is quiet and serene with minimal noisy nightlife. A resort bus stops a few minutes' walk away and connects to various other parts of the resort including Cala D'Or center and Cala Ferrera. Palma de Mallorca Airport is just under an hour's drive away, while it's just a little longer to Palma's quaint Old Town.

The hotel has 163 rooms, most of which are decorated in simple styling with patterned fabrics, tile floors, and dated wood furniture. Standard in-room amenities include tube-style TVs (though with a few English-language channels), mini-fridges, and safes (for a fee). Wi-Fi is also available for a fee, but it's not very reliable. Upgraded rooms have flat-screen TVs, as well as guaranteed sea views. All rooms extend to spacious balconies, most of which overlook the beach, though some (quieter ones) look out to the road. Bathrooms look dated and tired in entry-level rooms, while those in upgraded units were updated with walk-in showers instead of shower/tub combos. Water from showers and taps have a salty taste that some find unpleasant, though this is typical in the area.

Apart from the particularly picturesque cove, the main focus of the complex is the pool terrace set just behind the beach. It features a largish pool with plenty of activities and entertainment, all of which are shared with the Marina Corfu. Almost continuous music makes the area feel lively but hardly relaxing; those looking for a more peaceful setting can head to a quiet terrace that's tucked away with a small pool. Adults staying in upgraded rooms also have access to an exclusive deck featuring a whirlpool tub and plenty of lounge chairs and daybeds, plus waiters serving drinks (standard room guests can pay extra for access). As well as a supervised kids' club, children have use of a playground and a game room; mini-golf, beach volleyball, and a tennis court are also free for guest use.

The hotel's all-inclusive plan covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner served buffet-style in the hotel's only restaurant -- a long dining room with a corner buffet for just kids. Net curtains run the length of the room obscuring what would be a lovely view (to avoid jostling over the best tables) and the food gets mixed reviews. Snacks and drinks are served through the day by the larger pool, and all drinks (minus branded spirits) are included in the all-inclusive rates.