What's striking about the Hotel Riosol is the gorgeous views over the bay; terraced construction sloping up the mountain takes full advantage of the wonderful vista. The hotel itself is bright and modern, and every inch the holiday resort. The lobby is filled with postcard displays, activity itineraries, and travel agent desks. The vibe is super family-friendly, and the Riosol draws an international clientele, with many guests there on package deals. But being family-friendly means the public areas can get a little raucous, especially during the summer and other peak times. Those looking for quiet romance may want to book elsewhere -- try the spa at Gloria Palace Amadores Thalasso & Hotel.

The Riosol is located on a mountain slope on one of the highest points of Puerto Rico, overlooking the bay and beach on the southwest side of Gran Canaria. Surrounded by other hotels, the Riosol is a couple minutes' climb up a stairway from a shopping mall with restaurants and shops. Gran Canaria Airport is a 40 minute drive away. Given the Riosol's setting, the beach and town center below can only be reached by car or taxi.

The Riosol has both traditional guest rooms and apartments. All 236 utilitarian-looking units are decorated in a bright, citrus-inspired color palette with basic furniture and tiled floors. Permanent sketches of men sleeping or playing music displayed above the beds and couches are a fun touch. In-room amenities include flat-screen TVs and tea- and coffee-making facilities, while apartments come with fully equipped kitchens (though not an oven). All units open onto furnished balconies or terraces with full or partial sea views, though the quality of accommodations can vary wildly from the high- to low-end of the price spectrum. Air-conditioning is not included in the room rate, and incurs an extra charge, as does Wi-Fi.

Features at Hotel Riosol focus mainly on family fun in the sun. There are the two swimming pools overlooking the fabulous vista of Puerto Rico Bay -- one pool is heated in the winter by solar energy and has hydro-massage. Both are surrounded by sun terraces with loungers, some of which look a little tired. The Balcón Canario restaurant offers an international menu with a bar and terrace overlooking the bay. For children there's a mini-club, playground, and supervised entertainment program. The Riosol has a tennis court and a fitness center with cardio machines, weight trainers, and free weights. Half-board packages are available and Wi-Fi in the lobby is free.