Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá

“We had a genuinely excellent stay at the Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá adults-only property just outside Palma. The hotel (known locally as the "chocolate box hotel") sits right on the water with direct sea frontage — rocky coves, palm trees, and that deep Mediterranean blue at every turn. Room & interiors. Recently renovated to a high standard: warm oak floors, sculptural ceiling fan, a low-slung sofa, and clean Scandinavian-meets-Mediterranean styling. What impressed us most was the bed orientation — positioned to face directly out to the terrace and sea, so you wake up to sunrise over the water rather than the usual side-on layout. The in-room bar cabinet is beautifully fitted with proper wine glasses, Nespresso, a Krups kettle, local snacks, and a minibar. The bathroom is large, finished in textured stone tiles with double basins and a generous walk-in rainfall shower. Daily turndown service and complimentary bottled water throughout. Pools & outdoor space. Multiple distinct pool areas rather than one crowded hub — a sleek dark-tiled lap pool set against the hotel facade, a freeform main pool lined with cabanas, and a natural rock pool carved into the coastline with sunbeds right at the water's edge. The gardens are well maintained with lavender beds, sculpted hedging, and mature pines — there's genuine space between guests, which makes a real difference. Sunbeds are Alberta Ferretti-branded, which is a nice touch. Food & facilities. Breakfast is a proper Spanish buffet — extensive, good quality, and best enjoyed at a terrace table overlooking the sea. The restaurant, Bombon by Alberta Ferretti, delivers nicely for evening desserts and drinks on the balcony. The spa and gym are solid: multiple shower experiences, steam room, sauna, and hot tubs. Location. Illetes is quiet and residential — an oasis compared to central Palma — but it's only 15–20 minutes by taxi if you want the old town, restaurants, or the harbour. The Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá, Illetes, Mallorca is well-suited for couples looking for a calm, well-run property with genuine seafront access and design interiors. We would return for a relaxing sunshine break.”