Hotel Del Almirante

A great small hotel. Don’t expect too much but expect a great 2 star hotel! We’ve now been the third time and would happily come back again. Small, friendly hotel. Frequented mostly by older British couples but also other nations and the odd middle aged or younger couple like us. Superb location between Es Castel and Mahon with bus stop almost in front of the hotel but we usually walk to Es Castel. Very friendly staff and clean. We like it as it is small and friendly but yet close to the towns, bars and restaurants. It comes with a lot of history, don’t miss the tour of the house on a Friday morning. Some of the rooms have an amazing view over the harbour.

We stayed for a week in a family run hotel with a rich history, a place holidaymakers return countless times, reasonably comfortable surroundings in a location which can only be described as barren, yet only a mile or so from Mahon and Es Castell. Its on the bus route to both and a bus is supposed to arrive every 30 mins in either direction. With a fantastic view from the rear breakfast room each morning and a walk along the coastal path close by, its solitude is apparent. There are various walks nearby to coves and the Port of Mao, but there are very steep hills to contend with on the return. The hotel itself is amazing for its architecture and history. Its comfortable and understandable why so many return. However, not everyone is able to stay in the house, so you also stay in ample sized rooms surrounding the hotel on the boundary of the grounds. They are connected by numerous pathways, interspersed with seats and tables, all having electric lamps at night time. The bar is open at arranged hours, so unless you have appropriate drinks and food to serve your needs during the downtime, you will go hungry or thirsty, necessitating a visit over the road to the small market within the fuel garage or further. The one downfall of the whole holiday was the lunch and dinnertime food. To say the main courses were 'dry' is hitting things on the nail. You have to buy a garnish of salad if you want it, or alternatively order salad and have a side of chips if you need carbohydrates. For the price you pay, its a little overpriced and its the only thing other than the ice cold water in the swimming pool that really lets the whole place down in essence. Full marks to Enrique the owner who works hard to satisfy everyone of his guests. I can see why people return, its so quiet due to its location, yet you dont really have privacy to enjoy your own company should you need to. There are no private balcony's and being such a friendly place unless you stay in your room, your likely to get involved in a conversation quicker than you imagine. Great place with a few things which could be improved to make it so much better, or just enjoy it for what it is. I must say ALL the staff without exception were so friendly and helpful - it is a credit to all and an example to other hotels on how to look after your guests with a huge smile on their faces and a high degree of enthusiasm in every respect.

Equidistant between Mahon and El Castell, Collingwood House is steeped in history. Service is excellent and the rooms are good. Food is relatively basic but none the worse for it. There are some good coastal walks on your doorstep, a lovely sun terrace with sea view and a nice swimming pool. Recommended.