Universal Hotel Florida

With its distinctive wall clad in rustic-style tiling, candy-cane striped awning, and balconies draped with colorful beach towels, the Hotel Florida is certainly easy to spot. While undeniably dated in parts, most of the interiors are bright, clean, and airy with the modern, laid-back atmosphere of an unpretentious budget hotel. Like most in Magaluf, this adults-only hotel attracts an up-for-it crowd of young vacationers, mostly from the U.K. with a scattering of other Europeans, as well as the odd bachelor or bachelorette party. Surprisingly this doesn't necessarily result in a particularly boisterous atmosphere; on our visit it was mostly quiet with couples relaxing around the pool and surrounding tiered terraces. Younger groups also tend to be placed on separate floors to cut down on disturbing other guests.

Set into the cliff, the hotel has show-stopping panoramic views -- some of the best in the resort that stretch the length of the bay and beyond. There's also the bonus of a small pebble beach below the hotel, only accessible from the hotel or boat. Be aware there are lots of steps around the complex, so it's not suitable for those with walking difficulties. And as an adults-only property no guests under 16 are allowed.

The hotel is located on the south side of Torrenova, a peninsula that separates the resort towns of Palmanova and Magaluf. The area is a fairly relaxed collection of bars, tourist shops, and eateries, and it's within a 10-minute walk of two fine stretches of sandy beach. The neighborhood is set on a steep hill, however, which can make getting to and from the hotel tiring and even tricky for those with mobility issues. The island's most boisterous partying takes place along Magaluf's main strip of bars and clubs, which is little more than five minutes' walk from the hotel. Around 10 minutes in the other direction, Palmanova offers less wild nightlife and plenty of dining options. Buses also run into Palma, with its gothic Cathedral and lovely Old Town, taking about 30 minutes (plus a 10-minute walk to the bus stop); cabs to Palma de Mallorca Airport take around the same time.

The hotel has just over 200 guest rooms which are spread between the main building and the neighboring annex. While some cosmetic updates are evident, such as modern wall art and bed spreads, rooms are essentially a no-frills combination of dated wood furniture, simple tile floors, and ceiling fans. Old tube-style TVs have been replaced with wall-mounted flat-screens, but there's no air-conditioning and cooling comes from ceiling fans (or extra free-standing ones on request). Safes are old-fashioned and charged extra as is in-room Wi-Fi, which is also per device (though reasonably priced). Mini-fridges are also available for rent.

All units open to furnished balconies, the vast majority with superb panoramic sea views, though a handful do look over the street. Some lower-level rooms feature larger terraces with space for loungers and get the sun all day -- though don't expect too much privacy. Bathrooms are clean and well-maintained, with shower/tub combos (with clingy curtains), wall-mounted hairdryers, and sachet toiletries. While noise is generally not an issue, some guests report thin walls in the annex rooms, as well as the occasional intoxicated party.

For a value property, the Hotel Florida is surprisingly solid on its amenities. Wall-to-wall windows take full advantage of the panoramic sea views from the hotel's buffet restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (though many younger guests sleep throughout breakfast service). The consensus is that food is surprisingly good for a hotel of this type, and while it can get repetitive, the buffet looked fresh and good quality on our visit. Breakfast is always included, plus there's half-board, full-board, and all-inclusive plans available. A modern bar (updated in 2014) opens to a large patio overlooking the swimming pool, which features a panoramic sun terrace and surrounding tiered sections. Some guests complain there's not always enough loungers and towel reservation can be rife. 

Guest also have direct access to the sea via a small pebble beach below. On-site animation is mostly limited to aquarobics, plus there are a couple pool tables, ping pong, and darts in a rather dingy games room. Evening entertainment includes the likes of bingo, karaoke, and cabaret, while groups can also reserve an opened-sided area for private dance parties, free of charge. Wi-Fi isn't free, but it's reasonably priced by the week. Note: There's no gym facilities or on-site parking.