Fronted by an an unattractive car park surrounded by apartment blocks, the gleaming, curving glass-facade of the IFA Interclub Atlantic Hotel looks more like a conference center than a holiday resort. Inside, the lobby is nondescript, with little distinction aside from a few tourism posters and pamphlets. Once past reception, however, guests find themselves within extensive palm-studded neatly manicured lawns and gardens, strewn with sun loungers, which overlooks the sea and surrounding area. Built in 1973, the property comprises a main four-floor building and a separate four-floor annex, all last fully renovated in 1995. Though generally well-maintained, the IFA Interclub can't escape looking dated in parts. Firmly geared toward families, the hotel attracts couples with kids from all over Europe.

The hotel is set in residential area of San Agustin on a hillside overlooking the sea on the south coast of Gran Canaria. The town center is a mile and a half away, though shops and restaurants can be found within a 10-minute walk. The local beach is also within a 10-minute walk but is down a long flight of stairs. Gran Canaria Airport is 17 miles away, or 20 minutes by car.

The hotel's 419 rooms are spread between two four-story buildings, and are decorated in a simple style typical of mid-range resort hotels, with tiled flooring and modern furnishings. All rooms include TVs, although they're old-style tubes, not flat-screens, sofabeds, and safes (for a fee), and open onto a balcony or terrace -- some with garden or sea views, others with less-attractive views. Families may want to book a room with a full kitchen. Bathrooms are functional with basic toiletries. There is a charge for Wi-Fi in the rooms, and service is weak.

The hotel's standout attraction is the huge swimming pool with three waterslides, surrounded by palm-dotted gardens and loungers. There are also three small soaking pools and a separate pool for kids, as well as a mini-club and basic playground. There are three tennis courts on-site, as well as a range of other sports facilities. A selection of bars and a restaurant offer guests drinks and buffet dining, though not everything is covered in the all-inclusive rate. Wi-Fi is available in the business center for a fee.