We spent five days at El Encinar in August 2006, having stayed on two previous occasions also. There has been a change of management and it was clear that the new people were finding their feet.

On arrival, we were informed that there had been an error in the booking and that we couldn't have an apartment for that night. Instead we were offered a suite, either for the duration or for the one night. We were also offered free breakfasts for the four of us, for each day of our stay. Good compensation.

The suite was very high quality and of 4 star standard, with a sitting area, sofa beds, fridge, twin beds and large bathroom. However, to the front of the suite was a public walkway with no outdoor furniture. Worst of all was the fact that the view, whilst pleasant and relaxing, offered not a glimpse of the sea - the single best reason for staying at El Encinar.

We switched to the apartment on the second day. These apartments are basic but more than adequate. A living room with two sofa beds has a large balcony with a simply outstanding view out to sea and to the coast below. A TV has the usual European channels along with, refreshingly, BBC1. A small dining area lies adjacent to a kitchenette with fridge, two ring burner and sink. The cutlery and crockery has seen better days.

A spacious twin bedroom to the rear has another large balcony overlooking the road and with a mountain backdrop. The noise disturbance is minimal.

Breakfasts were buffet style and adequate. Drinks were from a machine and the sausage, eggs and bacon were not the best. Breads, pastries and fruits were good. Service was pleasant and welcoming.

Public areas are adorned with large antiques and have a country house feel to them. A small bar services the main lounge area, but remains little used.

The pool area is outstanding. A large freshwater pool, with an honesty bar, is overlooked by the magnificent Tramuntana peaks. It was never crowded and beds were always available - no 7.00am rush with the towels here. A table tennis table sits in the extensive grounds above the pool area, as do a number of hotel owned miradors, which were much used by guests.

El Encinar seem now to be gearing up to the Dutch and German market - there was very little English language information in reception. The clientele was not the sunbathing/clubbing type, but more the discerning traveller and walker who knows a bargain when they see one. Some younger groups were present, taking advantages of the low prices.

Apartments were advertised on site at 90 euros each per night - a better deal can be had by booking with Try holidays.

The location is stunning with Deia, Valldemossa, Soller, and Port de Soller close by for restaurants and culture. Valldemossa is walkable but not recommended after dark due to the absence of pavements. There are no sandy beaches close by, other than that at Port de Soller - a nice place but with a very unattractive beach.

El Encinar is a unique holiday. Cheap and basic but relaxing, tranquil, refreshing, and pleasingly old fashioned.