Valentin Playa de Muro

The first impression of the Valentin Playa de Muro is one of cavernous space. The lobby is long and airy, with curved pine-wood ceilings and exposed metal pipes stretching the length of the hall-like interior. A smattering of tropical plants and photos of Mallorcan natural landmarks help bring a little life to its pleasant though slightly characterless atmosphere. New arrivals are treated to chilled Cava or orange juice. 

While previously the Valentin Blue Bay Resort, this property was originally a campsite that was converted into a hotel around 2004. The extensive leafy property still has a camp-like feel, albeit with row-upon-row of whitewashed bungalows connected by a series of neatly ordered footpaths. The grounds are brimming with chirruping birds and plant life that includes colorful flowers, sculpted shrubbery, and numerous trees, plus a swathe of open lawn backed by fields and distant mountains. This relaxing outdoorsy vibe is coupled with a sporty theme that attracts mostly cyclists and activity-seekers typically hailing from German-speaking countries. Summer also brings a share of families with kids.

This hotel is set on the main road that runs parallel with Playa de Muro beach -- part of the large sweeping Bay of Alcudia located in the northeast of Majorca. The property is surrounded on three sides by fields and trees, with access to the four mile Blue Flag beach a few minutes walk away through a pretty pine forest and dunes. The busier beach and resort town of Can Picafort is also within walking distance, with plenty of dining options and some nightlife, while the Port of Alcudia (the area's largest resort) is around 15 minutes drive. Nature-lovers are also under a five-minute drive (or 10-minute cycle) from the S'Albufera Natural Park. The island's buzzing capital Palma and Palma International Airport are both around an hour away by road. 

The complex has 130 detached bungalows, each made up of a spacious terrace, a lounge and kitchen area, bathroom, and separate bedroom. Interiors are mostly simple and modern with wood paneling, tile floors, and slightly dated functional furniture -- a handful have been updated throughout with wood-effect flooring and a more sleek contemporary finish. All units measure around 325 square feet (30 square meters) and can sleep up to three adults or two adults and two children (though that might feel a bit of a squeeze).

Living areas include 32-inch TVs, sofa-beds, and simple cooking facilities that cover microwaves, fridge-freezers, electronic burners, and cookware. Climate controls include air-conditioning and heating. Wi-Fi is free of charge and most bungalows receive an excellent signal. Bathrooms are on the small side but clean and well-maintained with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and hotel-brand toiletries. Patios with loungers, tables, and chairs provide alfresco dining opportunities -- some accompanied by sunset mountain views. 

The Valentin Playa de Muro does a good job of combining facilities for sports enthusiasts with those found in a typical resort-style hotel. A good example of this: There are two outdoor pools, one a six-lane training pool heated in March and April, and the other a large relaxation pool, lined with loungers with separate whirlpool and kids' sections. There's a grass football pitch, basketball, beach volleyball, and tennis courts, as well as a playground and supervised kids' club for children 5 years old and up. Fitness facilities include a small modern gym, plus a stretch room with a sauna (for a fee). Cyclists have an on-site bike shop for repairs and rental, though no secure storage (guests can keep bikes in bungalows).

Most dining takes places in the long buffet restaurant, which extends to an alfresco poolside terrace. Breakfast is always included, and offers the likes of cooked-to-order eggs, and a half-board option covers dinner (though not drinks). Both variety and quality of food is very good, with plenty of healthy options. A spacious bar also offers an a la carte menu for snacks and light meals, as well as a couple pool tables, a TV showing sporting events, and weekly live music. An outdoor stage also puts on live shows over the summer months. Wi-Fi is available free throughout the complex.