By Palma, Mallorca: Hotel Bon Sol
Four-Star Resort and Spa with Swimming Pools, Beach, and Restaurants
Illetas (or Illetes) is only 7km (4.4 miles) west of Mallorca's capital, Palma, and the number 3 bus to the center of Palma stops virtually outside the Hotel Bon Sol. It therefore makes this 4-star hotel an ideal base for those who want to spend most of their time lazing by the swimming pool or the beach, but make an occasional trip into Palma to see its magnificent cathedral, fine museums and sample its excellent restaurants.
Hotel Bon Sol Restaurants
The Bon Sol has three restaurants of its own – one for breakfast, one for dinner in the hotel itself, and the third beachside restaurant serving lunch and dinner with a view over the Mediterranean. The Beach Terrace Restaurant is by far the most popular, and in season is full every night. Guests can only reserve a table the day before, and the food and atmosphere are both so good that the tables book up quickly. The four-course menu includes a hot or cold soup, a visit to the salad bar, and a visit to the dessert bar, as well as a choice of main courses. These always include the fisherman's catch of the day, and a roast meat of the day, as well as options like duck a l'orange, sirloin steak, beef tenderloin and a range of pork, chicken, and other dishes.
Half-Board
One reason for the Bon Sol's popularity – the vast majority of guests are return visitors – is the amazing value of its half-board option. In many hotels half-board means an average buffet or a very basic 3-course menu, with limited choice. Not at the Hotel Bon Sol. For only 12 euros (about £9.50 or US$18) per day (2008 summer rates), guests can opt for the full 4-course menu at the Beach Terrace, or choose either the a la carte or the gourmet menu in the main hotel restaurant. The only additional cost is for drinks, and the wine list has a good range of Spanish wines, starting at about 11 euros per bottle, with house wine in carafes being even cheaper.
Hotel Facilities
In addition to its three restaurants, the Hotel Bon Sol has several swimming pools, and access to a small stretch of beach. There is also a bar, with live music most evenings. Free yoga classes are offered twice daily, and there is a health and beauty spa too. Sports facilities include tennis courts, mini-golf, volleyball, table tennis, squash, pool, petanque, and a children's playground. There is free wifi in several of the public areas, a library, two PCs free to guests, and several quiet lounge areas. Daily newspapers in German and English are also provided.
The Bon Sol began life as a small family guesthouse in 1953 (Errol Flynn was an early guest), and though it has grown over the years it is still a personal family business. The current owner Martin Xamena and his English wife Lorraine are very much hands-on, and the hotel has numerous secret corners and surprises round every corner, with many of the family's collection of art and antiques in almost every room.
Hotel and Grounds
Surrounded by pine trees and attractive gardens, the Hotel Bon Sol spreads over several levels. Lifts take guests between the various floors, and though it takes a while to get used to the layout, its quirky design is part of the hotel's unique charm. It is certainly one of the most distinctive of Mallorca hotels, a place that guests fall in love with and return to again and again.
Hotel Bon Sol Reservations and Rates
For full details of the Hotel Bon Sol's facilities, its current room rates, and to check availability and make bookings, visit the Hotel Bon Sol website.
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Mallorca's Hotel Bon Sol Beach Restaurant
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Mallorca's Hotel Bon Sol: Spa
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Mallorca's Hotel Bon Sol: Beach Villa
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Mallorca's Hotel Bon Sol: hall
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Mallorca's Hotel Bon Sol: gardens
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