Light, space, sea view - what more could you wish for? Large pool, mountain view, friendliest host - boxes also ticked! Add in one of the best locations for pretty beaches, access to the rest of the island and a low key vibe and Catalina and Cala D'Or have got it covered.
It may all be relatively new and purpose built but there the comparison to a typical resort ends. Cala D'Or is low rise, has stunningly pretty coves and is not full of clubs, pubs and 'Brits abroad'. With a car, you can visit coves, caves, monasteries and pearl manufacturers, sight-see or shop in Palma, visit art galleries or eat gelato (actually you can do that without one too!).
Even without a car, there is lots to enjoy. Firstly, the beaches (6 to choose from in Cala D'Or alone - we had lunch at one (D'Es Pou), freshly squeezed orange at another (Cala D'Or itself) and ice cream at a third (Cala Gran) stretching our legs on the way and enjoying the views and the 'which yacht should we have when we win the lottery' conversation at Cala Llonga. Secondly, the pool, a great size for swimming or mucking about on floats. Also, do try the Sangria at the Island Bar - it'll knock your socks off. Thirdly, the space and the light - just pick a lounger on your own terrace or roof, get a book on the go and kick back.
Catalina was a fantastic host. Everything was as expected, if not better. We highly recommend her apartment.