SENTIDO PUNTA DEL MAR

Perched on a hillside a 20-minute walk from central Santa Ponsa, the Sentido Punta del Mar has some of the most striking views around. The lobby -- an airy, bright space with all-white decor and turquoise and wood accents -- is on the top floor, while the rest of the hotel cascades down towards the Mediterranean. The reception area has a cute stone front desk, beige floors and huge arched windows that bring the striking outdoors in. The rest of the common spaces, including the pools and the restaurants also make the most of this privileged location, with expansive sea views, large terraces, and tons of light streaming in through floor-to ceiling windows. 

The hotel is located in a quiet residential area a little north along the coast of Santa Ponsa. The Punta del Mar does offer direct access to the sea, but the area here is rocky, and there is only a ladder to get in and out of the water. However, Santa Ponsa’s long, sandy beach is a 15-minute walk away, and there are several other stretches of sand within a 15-minute drive in either direction. Bars, restaurants and shops in central Santa Ponsa are a 20-minute walk from the property. Andratx, known for its upmarket restaurants and stores, can be reached in about 15 minutes, and Palma and the airport are each a 25-minute drive away.

The hotel’s 243 rooms are stylishly decorated in white and beige, with appealing dark laminate floors and modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, mini-fridges, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning. White linens, walls, and cabinet doors add light, while tan bed runners, countertops, and headboards are contemporary touches. All rooms have furnished balconies, the vast majority of which offer stunning sea views. Bathrooms are modern and spacious, with walk-in showers, wooden benches, cream-colored tiles, and hotel-brand toiletries. Junior Suites and Suites can sleep up to three guests (in selected rooms and upon availability only) and have seating areas with a sofa and a coffee table.

Offering stunning panoramic sea views and entertainment throughout the day, the pools are the heart of the action at the hotel. There are lots of loungers and a few parasols around both pools, but many guests complain that most are taken even before breakfast during peak season. The small gym features a handful of cardio machines and free weights, and the spa has a hydrotherapy area, as well as a sauna, a steam room, and a treatment cabin. The main restaurant offers a varied buffet, and guests can visit the a la carte restaurant, serving international cuisine in an elegant dining room with panoramic views, once per stay. The snack bar is a convenient option for a quick bite, but the most popular drinking spot at Punta del Mar is Blue Bar, which is a favorite for watching the sunset. Those exploring the island by bike can get supplies, spare parts and bikes for rent at the on-site shop. Wi-Fi is free throughout.