Aparthotel Ferrer Isabel

Formerly the rather underwhelming Ola Aparthotel Isabel, this property changed hands and names in 2016, and the new management seems to have really turned things around. While Aparthotel Ferrer Isabel doesn't look so different -- the interiors still feel a little dated and worn in parts -- the hotel bears a little more polish and upkeep. Guests are now greeted with a welcome glass of chilled Cava (or orange juice) and check-in is friendly and efficient. The 110 apartments are spread around one of three, three-story blocks with traditional-style balustraded walkways and terra-cotta tile roofs. The pool terrace is sunny and well-maintained, although despite receiving a fresh lick of paint (from green to blue), it does have an undeniably budget feel and overlooks a road. The mood is relaxed and unpretentious, attracting an even mix of generally older couples and families with younger children -- overwhelmingly hailing from the UK.

The hotel is located in a quiet, semi-residential neighborhood on the outskirts of the small seaside resort of Cala Bona. There's very little in the immediate area besides other hotels (the one opposite has a supermarket for groceries). It's about a 10- to 15-minute walk to the laid-back resort center, where there are a sandy beach and pleasant seafront promenade lined with the usual tourist shops, bars, and restaurants. For a longer stretch of sand and more buzzing nightlife, Cala Millor is a five- to 10-minute cab ride, or buses also run from just outside the hotel. The location is also one of the island's more remote, being a good hour's drive from the capital of Palma and its Palma de Mallorca Airport. 

All 110 apartments sleep up to four guests (two adults and two children, or three adults), and have separate bedrooms, living rooms with two sofa beds, kitchenettes, and dining areas. The pine furnishings and simple decor are slightly dated, but apartments are generally bright and clean. Cooking facilities are pretty basic: Fridges, electric hobs, and cookware could use replacing, and kettles and toasters are only available to hire. Old-fashioned safes and hairdryers are also extra. Doors swing open to furnished balconies, mostly overlooking the pool and road, though some on the upper floor can catch distant sea views. Bathrooms are small and basic, with shower/tub combos (with flimsy shower curtains) and simple toiletries. Outdated TVs are only found in bedrooms, and Wi-Fi is available for a per-device fee. 

Most guests agree that the hotel's buffet breakfast (which is always included) provides a good quality spread that covers all the ingredients for a full English, plus the usual continental cold cuts and cereals. Buffet lunch and dinner is also served, covered by the half-board and all-inclusive plans; there are no a la carte dishes, though quality is pretty decent overall. A bar opens to a spacious terrace overlooking the outdoor pool. The pool is a good size for a swim, with plenty of loungers, and a separate kids' pool. There's also a program of daytime activities -- mostly aimed at younger guests, who also have a playground -- as well as evening entertainment, which reports suggest has plenty of room for improvement.