Hi Suo.
We have been to Balcon del Mar twice (last time was last year), and going again in March. YEYYYY!
This is my review (the top one): http://www.holidaytruths.co.uk/reviews/spain/canary-islands/lanzarote/puerto-del-carmen/balcon-del-mar-apartments/
I have only been in March, so can only really tell you about the place in low season, when it's a lot quieter.
Personally, I ask for an apartment opposite the smaller pool, as I preferred it. It's a little quieter and the terraces are also shielded from the wind.
The apartment blocks are at the top of a hill, but it's easy enough to walk up if you're reasonably fit. There are a few bars as you ascend the hill if you want to stop off for refreshments. There are also a couple of shops to stock up on necessaries. It's a 5 or 10 minute walk to the lovely harbour, with some lovely restaurants, although it's slightly more expensive to eat there, due to the location. It's also about a 10 minute walk to the "new" town, only a short taxi ride back, should you need it.
I actually prefer the old town to the newer part.

Thanks GQB for that info, read your review, sounds exactly what we want. We are hiring a car this time, so walking uphill etc wont be a problem. But we like walking so will probably park up and do a couple of treks!
I personally didnt like the other matagorda/los pocollis end, but did like a few bars in the new town that had live music.
We chose the Old town because it looked as if it had more atmosphere. Do you know if there are any good bars with a bit of evening entertainment on nearby these apartments? - thanks

I'm not really sure, as it was March last year we went. A lot of them are advertised on billboards outside the bars. But a lot of them are quite poor as well! Although we have seen a couple of good musicians here and there, I can't remember where.

hello,

ive stayed at the apartment next door (flora) twice, so unfortunatley i cant tell you about balcon del mar, BUT i can about the surrounding area.

as the previous post states, it is up a hill, but if you're driving thats not an issue.

litterally the first restaurant you come to is a chinese on your side. years ago this used to be busy, but when we visited this november i only saw 2 tables of 4 in on different days for the week.

on the opposite side of the road, there is a nice british pub/cafe called the purple turtle. we stayed here for fantastic full english breakfasts and to watch the football. they do very nice sangria!!! all at reasonable prices.

a bit further down there is a nice restaurant (cant remember the name) and they have a statue of a waiter holding a pizza (you'll see what i mean when you go) which is good!

the next restaurant i enjoyed would be down by the harbour. cant remember the name of that one either (oh dear) but its next to where the men play bowls. the staff here are very hospitable, and considering its location, it was 8 euros for half a chicken salad and chips, and about 3 euros for a beer.

the only bar experience we had would be near titti at the tarvern, such a good night, but the best shows are on a wednesday so dont miss out! bars near there are good!

in most cases i think evening entertainment is mainly along the strip, although on the hill down you might find the occasional band playing etc

hope you have a lovely trip hope this info helped!

claire

Thank you Claire, some good recommendations there will have a look at them,

We went in the Purple Turtle a couple of times. We only went for lunch and the staff are very friendly, and the grub was fine.