Hotel Illot Suites & Spa

Upon first stepping into the Hotel Illot Suites & Spa, visitors are met with a pleasantly open and bright reception area, where floor-to-ceiling windows allow plenty of natural light and oversize planters provide splashes of red against crisp-white walls and polished marble. On closer inspection, however, you can't help but notice numerous signs of poor upkeep, such as chipped paintwork and peeling floor vinyl. From the lobby guests can see directly into the spa area on one side, and the relatively small pool terrace on the other (much of which is in the shade by late afternoon). Two pairs of elevators transport guests to one of four floors, where carpeted hallways are well-maintained but gloomily lit. Opened in 1993, the property is comparatively new, but we found is generally lacking in polish and atmosphere on our 2017 visit. It attracts mostly families hailing from the UK, Germany and Spain, as well as couples who come for the extensive spa facilities.  

The hotel is located in the laid-back resort town of Cala Ratjada, situated on the far eastern tip of Mallorca. While the immediate area is a little shabby and short on character, it's just a block from the main road lined with tourist-friendly restaurants, bars, and mini-markets. The picturesque and popular Cala Agulla beach is a 10- to 15-minute walk away, while in the other direction is the resort's buzzing harbor district. Two other pretty beaches, Cala Gat and Cala Moll, are a five-minute drive away, while the stunning Cala Mesquida is 15 minutes. The resort's relatively remote location means it's at least a 75 minutes by car to the Palma de Mallorca Airport and the island's capital. 

All 102 of the hotel's units are differentiated by view from balconies, overlook the street, pool area, or both -- though none have more than the smallest glimpse of sea. Last updated in 2007, the decor is starting to show its age, with dark-wood furniture, tiled floors, and a red-beige color scheme. We also spotted streaks of rust on the balcony during our 2017 visit. Apartment-style accommodation all include separate double bedrooms and living rooms with lounge areas with sofa beds, dining tables, and kitchenettes with electric ranges, fridges, microwaves, and simple cookware. Units sleep up to two adults and two children.

Other amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, key-operated safes (for a fee), and air-conditioning or heating. A Wi-Fi connection is free of charge throughout the property. Bathrooms are fairly spacious, with walk-in showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and basic sachet toiletries, but most are looking tired and in need of a refresh. 

The spa is certainly the main features that distinguishes the hotel, with a huge indoor pool with whirlpool sections, waterfalls, and massage jets, plus floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a garden (though guests complain of cold water). There's also thermal loungers, sauna, and steam room, though while free for all-inclusive guests, entry is otherwise charged. A spacious fitness room feels old-fashioned, with creaky floors and fairly modern equipment. Sports facilities also include two squash courts and an outdoor paddle court. A kids' club keeps children between four and 12 entertained for part of the day, while evening entertainment includes live music, snake shows, and magic acts.

The outside pool is on the small side and can get busy during peak times, and it's shaded later in the day. A poolside bar serves drinks and snacks, plus there's a self-service snack room for all-inclusive guests. All meals are served in the dining rooms, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with weekly themed buffets and live cooking stations. Food choice and quality is good, though there's no a la carte options and coffee and juice are from dispensers. A minimum of breakfast is always included, with half-board and all-inclusive plans also covering drinks at meal times. Wi-Fi is free throughout.