Barcelo Puerto El Castillo Hotel

“ Very well presented apartment block with nicely designed apartments. Several pools available, but our kids one was unheated, even thought the main one was (nice). Even in March, plenty of staff around tidying gardens, swimming pools etc. Maid service good. Everything clean. Island didn't have much to offer children under 5 unless you are happy with beach or zoo (kids club for over 4ys twice a day for 2 hours). Play facilities not clean (dusty) and for 6 and over I'd judge.

Reception in nearby block had a good standard of English and was helpful and polite.

Residents mainly seemed to be German, some Spanish and a few English. The regular exercise classes were therefore all in German (although I expect we could still have joined in using English, just didn't bother). I don't know if the classes were free, certainly they have a spa/treatment clinic attached which charges beefy rates for glamorous sounding massages/facials etc.

Some niggles about maintenance - we were getting electric shocks off hot plates which they didn't resolve on several visits (kept promising to replace but I suspect they were stringing this out till we left as appl. firmly built in). Microwave was an old fashioned unrated model which didn't rotate or cook well (worn out I suspect). Fridge and Small dishwasher provided, but I think you'd have to be extremely lazy not to wash up four of everything! Tiles on stairs were loose in places (although tread edges were firm). No lift to upper floor.

Largish flat screen TVs in lounge and bedroom which will be appreciated by some, but only English channels were one US entertainment channel and 24hr news.

We did manage to cook some nice meals despite the erratic hob, but would recommend these apartments more to those who want to eat out quite a bit (most people I suspect). When you eat out, ask the chef not too overdo the salt - the island cooks generally seem to love the stuff (even MacDonalds!).

“ Top Tip: Locals shop nearby at a large Spar supermarket to the South. This was still expensive though, partly because of the Euro/pound rate (e.g. E3.50 for a packet of ordinary chocolate biscuits). The newer Visa debit cards seem to attract higher transaction charges from Visa and local business/banks and you are better off withdrawing cash en bloc (probably UK first) and using that. I seemed to be paying around 10% extra in charges on every transaction - not impressed Natwest, I want my Maestro back!!

“ excellent accomondation, very clean and helpfull staff.

“ This is the second year I have been to the complex. It is located next to the main Barcelo complex and next to the harbour and see, yet maintaining a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. I visited in January 2011 and 2012 and had a great break each time. Ideal for a winter break!

“ Top Tip: A good range of restaurants; something for everyone. Plenty of football on TV in the bars!

“ Fantastic can't wait to go back