TRH Jardin del Mar

There are very few surprises at this simple seaside hotel, set in a quieter corner of Santa Ponsa. It falls squarely into the packed mid-range market in town, and doesn't deviate much from that category when it comes to style and atmosphere. The only difference is that many guests here come for the self-catering options, so the vibe may be a bit less social and lively than at other hotels in town. Interiors are fine, but unmemorable -- despite being spacious, light, and clean, the decor in the hotel's public area is quite dated. There's a curved reception desk in the lobby, and some columns in a pale peach color plus a polished gray floor, some worn leather coin-operated massage chairs, and pink wicker chairs around a coffee table. A stand of tourist information leaflets and arcade game area give everything an unintentionally budget feel. 

It’s a fairly quiet property that tends to attracts Scandinavian guests who enjoy the convenience of staying in an apartment, and most of those staying here are couples and families. Most guests gather around the large outdoor swimming pool, and it rarely feels crowded due to the size. Overall, there's a relaxed vibe throughout the property, even though there is nightly entertainment, and the hotel appeals to those wanting a peaceful, low-key vacation. 

The hotel is set in a quiet area overlooking Santa Ponsa Bay in southwestern Majorca. There's direct access to a rocky cove from here, but the town's better beach requires a 10-minute walk to reach. In town, Santa Ponsa Beach is lined with beautiful white sand, and sits adjacent to the main strip of shops, bars, and restaurants. Lively Magaluf is around a 10-minute drive from the TRH Jardin del Mar, and there are a few more family-friendly tourist attractions within a short drive as well. Jungle Parc, with its treetop circuit of bridges, ropes, vines, and zip lines is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. The marine amusement park, Marineland Mallorca -- which has dolphin and sea lion shows plus extensive aquariums -- is around a 15-minute drive. Palma de Mallorca Airport will take 30 minutes to reach by car.

All rooms at the hotel are actually compact apartments, and they include kitchenettes, dining areas, and living areas. Unfortunately, they aren't the most pleasant to be found in the area. Decor is basic, rather dated, and worn-looking. Standard Rooms are downright drab, with dark tan colors throughout, thick cloth bedspreads, and bland still lives in gold frames do little to perk things up. Superior Rooms are at least a bit brighter, but green formica countertops don't do much to bring the look into the current decade. The furniture and fixtures are flimsy, and the bedding and other soft furnishings look shabby. Guests can expect to see low-cost pine or light wood-veneer dining tables and chairs, desks, and bedside tables. 

The kitchenettes are basic as well, and include crockery, cutlery, and cooking utensils, a fridge with freezer compartment, sink, and stove. It costs extra to rent items like electric kettles. The largest of the one-bedroom apartments can sleep two adults and two children, and all have balconies, many with sea views. All rooms also include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, safes, and air-conditioning. Bathrooms are -- not surprisingly -- outdated as well, with pink granite counter tops and shower/tub combos. The metal slatted ceilings in some bathrooms are an odd touch, and they are quite dark. All are at least clean, with toiletries, towels, and plenty of storage space on counters.

One of the hotel’s main draws is its direct access to a cove with a small, rocky beach. It’s a peaceful and unspoiled spot with crystal clear waters, but little room for sunbathing and almost no sand. The hotel also has a large outdoor lagoon-style swimming pool that’s surrounded by palm trees, sun loungers, and umbrellas for shade. Some surprising additions include an indoor pool, and a sauna (although there’s a charge to use it), and a small fitness center with exercise bikes and weights. Additional options for the active include a volleyball court, pool table, table tennis table, and children's playground. Guests can hire bikes from the hotel as well. The international buffet restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and there’s also a cafe with big-screen TVs and a bar. Regular live entertainment is provided in the evenings, and Wi-Fi is available in public areas, but there is a charge to use it after the first hour.