APARTHOTEL COSTA MAR, Puerto del Carmen (Lanzarote)

The property is directly opposite Playa de los Pocillos, a wide, quiet beach ideal for relaxing. A Spar supermarket, pharmacy, and several restaurants are within a one-minute walk. The main bar and restaurant strip of Puerto del Carmen is a 15-20 minute walk to the right, or a cheap €5 taxi ride. Matagorda, with additional dining and shops, is about a 5-minute walk to the left. A bus stop right outside connects to the rest of the island - the airport is about 10 minutes away by car or bus. Free on-street parking is readily available for those renting a car.

Apartments are generously sized, especially the two-bedroom units which can sleep up to five. Each has a living room, a kitchen with hob, microwave, fridge, kettle, and cookware, and a private bathroom. Most rooms offer a balcony or terrace; sea views are common but best requested in advance. Ground-floor apartments have a terrace instead of a balcony. Furniture is basic and dated - some units show wear such as broken curtain poles or loose fittings - but bedding is generally comfortable. There is no air conditioning; a fan can be hired for an extra charge. Noise insulation between rooms is minimal; rooms near the cleaning trolley or road-facing may be noisier in the morning. The apartments are best suited to travellers who prioritise space and location over modern decor.

Breakfast is a continental buffet with bread, pastries, cold meats, cheese, eggs, bacon, cereals, and fruit - priced at €10 for adults and €5 for children. Dinner is a set buffet with a rotating menu of meat, fish, pasta, and chips, though variety is limited and the food can be lukewarm. Vegetarian options at dinner are mostly salads and boiled vegetables. The pool bar (Monday-Friday, 10:30-17:30) serves snacks and drinks at reasonable prices. Many choose to eat out at nearby restaurants, which are abundant and affordable. The on-site minimarket sells groceries and essentials for self-catering. A toaster or hairdryer can be borrowed from reception against a deposit.

The main pool is a good size for a complex this scale, with plenty of sun loungers. The pool is not heated and is accessed only by ladders, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues. A separate children's pool is available. The pool bar operates Monday to Friday from 10:30 to 17:30, offering limited hours but friendly service. There is a children's playground and outdoor play equipment on site. No spa, gym, or organised entertainment is provided. The beach across the road offers a large sandy area for swimming and sunbathing.

The property has a 24-hour reception desk and offers luggage storage, useful for late departures. Free Wi-Fi is available in the reception area but is not suitable for streaming; paid Wi-Fi in rooms costs €6 per 24 hours or €15 per week. A washing machine is available for a €6 fee per hour. Safety deposit boxes can be rented for around €19 per week. Car hire can be arranged on site, and a mobility scooter hire company operates in the commercial centre opposite. There is no lift in the buildings. Cleaning is provided 5 days a week, with towel changes three times weekly. The property accepts American Express, Visa, Maestro, and MasterCard.