THB Gran Playa

A glass pod elevator is the only immediately distinguishing feature that sets the Hotel THB Gran Playa apart from its similarly whitewashed surroundings. Stepping inside, the lobby is bright and polished. Although it's perfectly pleasant and immaculately clean, it also lacks a little in the way of character. While interiors feel quite formal -- with classically-themed objets d'art, wood paneling, and striped fabrics -- thanks to the adult-only status the atmosphere is distinctly relaxing. Despite its '60s origins (it's one of the resort's first hotels) everything feels well-maintained and upscale. A round of renovations completed in 2017 have also added to the property's overall sheen, especially through its bright modern hallways and updated guest rooms. There are no real gardens, but the pool and sun terraces provide enough sunny outdoor space for everyone, and are also blissfully free of noisy children -- on our visit, the hotel was mostly populated by older couples hailing from Germany and the United Kingdom. 

The hotel is located on a pleasant, palm-lined street towards the north end of the resort of Ca'n Picafort. The long sandy beach is just two minutes away on foot, together with the beachfront promenade lined with restaurants, boutiques, and tourist shops. The fairly narrow beach can get busy over peak season, though the quieter and more picturesque Playa de Muro is less than 15 minutes' walk away. Those looking for a little more nightlife can take a 20-minute cab journey to the Port d'Alcudia, while nature-lovers are a 10-minute drive from the Alcudia Nature Reserve. Those interested in sightseeing also have the lovely Alcudia old town and nearby Roman ruins of Pollentia at a 20-minute drive away. The capital of Palma and Palma de Mallorca Airport are up to an hour by road.

Updated in 2016, the hotel's 177 rooms are bright and attractive with clean contemporary lines, simple modern furniture, and wooden floors. Photo artwork adds a little sea-themed color to the spaces. Individual Rooms measure a compact 120-square-feet (11-square-meters) while Double Rooms aren't significantly larger at 182-square-feet (17-square-meters). All open to furnished balconies or terraces that mostly overlook the street, though some rooms on higher floors are treated to sea views. There's some inevitable and occasional traffic noise in many rooms, though double glazing on windows keeps it to a minimum.Amenities include 40-inch flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges (with free water on arrival), digital safes (for a fee), and coffee- and tea-making facilities. In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge. Bathrooms are clean and modern. They come with shower/tub combos, hotel-branded toiletries, and wall-mounted hairdryers. 

The Hotel THB Gran Playa pretty much checks all the boxes when it comes to vacation facilities. While the pool is on the small side, it feels nicely secluded and is surrounded by pretty flora, comfy loungers, and parasols. A ramp makes for easy access, and there's also a lie-down whirlpool tub. Up a level from the pool area is another quiet sun terrace with lots of sunbeds. Free pool towels are available from reception. The hotel's fourth-floor spa is impressive, with a large whirlpool tub and sauna and steam rooms, both with the unusual bonus of windows overlooking the sea. There's also one room for massage treatments. The small fitness center provides ocean views, but dated equipment. If the hotel has any shortcomings it's in the dining options, with just one buffet restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner (meal plan packages available). Variety is impressive on the 14-day revolving cycle of buffets, from Majorcan to Mexican and Asian dishes, plus cooking stations offering two meats, a fish, and a vegetable dish. Breakfast is always included and offers cooked-to-order eggs and fresh juice, and coffee is provided by a barista. Evening meals usually involve a chocolate fountain, and all-inclusive guests can help themselves to self-service beer and wine. The lounge bar has nightly shows, and live music three times a week. The livelier neighboring open-air Poker Bar (owned by the hotel) features a resident DJ playing '70s and '80s hits on vinyl. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.