Castillo Hotel Son Vida, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mallorca

The hotel has beautiful historical decor and a luxurious feel, with good value if you want a bit of luxury in Mallorca without paying to stay closer to the beach. It's also a good choice if you'd rather be away from the crowded city center. The pool is amazing, but the service there needs work, and in summer it closes at 7pm. We chose this place mainly for the pool, but kept missing its opening hours after days at the beach, which was a letdown. The restaurants are okay and breakfast is good. Aside from the pool staff, service was attentive and kind. They went out of their way to help us work out how to charge the rental car. I'd recommend drinks at the bar before or after dinner.

Two cockroaches turned up in the bathroom during my stay. I called the front desk right away, expecting some urgency or concern. A staff member came in casually, killed one, couldn't find the other, and left. There was no apology or sign of surprise. I asked to change rooms, which seemed reasonable, but was told it wasn't possible even though the hotel clearly wasn't sold out. I barely slept, knowing the other cockroach was still somewhere in the room. It felt completely unacceptable, unsanitary, and unprofessional. I've attached photos and videos; the place needs serious attention to cleanliness and customer service. I won't return and can't recommend it. I emailed the GM a week ago and still haven't had a reply. They simply don't care. Good luck staying at this “luxury collection” property. Regards, A Marriott Platinum Elite Member

The Christmas meal ruined the stay for us. It was heavily overpriced, the food quality was really bad, and there was no atmosphere. Lots of people sent their plates back. They offered a free meal on a future visit as compensation, when a refund of our money would have been the right response. The spa is only adequate at best. The location is great and the rooms are okay, which makes it a shame. Right now I wouldn't come here in winter for the spa or if I planned to eat at the hotel. It feels like investors are trying to squeeze money out without putting anything back in.

The hotel sits in the hills above Palma, with lovely views across the city. It has a nice pool and excellent restaurants. There are three world-class golf courses nearby, though you don't need to play golf to enjoy a stay here.