There comes a point when you’ve been to so many of the best hotels in the world that it takes something really different to catch your eye. Well, you’ll find that not just once but twice in Mallorca at these two well-designed hotels. They hit all the right notes on décor, vibe, and that pool. These are two boutique hotels in Mallorca that are not about the brash luxury, but rather the luxury in chic simplicity.
Summer in Mallorca
Mallorca is the quieter cousin of Ibiza, as part of the Balearic Islands. Think more Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas (who own a home on the isle) and less Tara Reid circa 2000. That’s not to say that it’s not a good time– quite the opposite, actually. Somehow Mallorca manages just enough scenes but at its core, it is all about unplugging from the world for a few days. This means that it’s still the place to escape the crowds and get an authentic slice of Spanish paradise.
In addition to the draw of food, you can spend your days exploring the Unesco World Heritage site of Deia, Valldemossa, and surrounding beaches. Not to be missed is lunch at Sa Foradada or Cas Patro March. Both locations overlook the sea and are reachable through long hikes, or by boat.
An Island of Luxurious Hotels
There are exquisite hotels on the isle like the Belmond La Residencia in Deia, which has a showstopper view. There’s also the new-ish Richard Branson Hotel Son Bunyola which is creating all the buzz, and a St. Regis in Palma that’s perfect for families. We have two hotels though that are not backed by LVMH (the owner of Belmond) or deep pockets. And that may just be why they should make your list of the best boutique hotels in Mallorca.
Can Ferrereta
The least explored part of Mallorca may be in the South-East part of the island. This means that it’s a perfect place for one of the best boutique hotels in Mallorca. Can Ferrereta is a converted carriage house that retains both its original charm and more modern updates that are sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing. In the morning, the inner courtyard garden, home to chirping birds, provides the perfect soundtrack for a long breakfast. In the evening, the cozy library is ideal for a digestif while perusing the carefully curated collection of vinyl and coffee table books. Can Ferrereta is relatively new but we wouldn’t be surprised if securing a reservation becomes difficult very soon. So, the time to go is now, before Can Ferrereta is discovered.
What to Do and Where to Eat
You want to spend ample time by the pool at Can Ferrereta, but make sure to explore the surrounding beaches. Not to be missed are Calo del Moro and S’Amarador, both with turquoise waters with little fishermen’s boat houses in the background. Your beach hopping should be interrupted only by a delicious meal at Cassai Gran Café where you can enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine and refreshing cocktails.
Mirabo de Valldemossa
Once you’ve reached the island’s West side, don’t hit the popular towns right away. Instead, go up in the hills where you’ll find a lovely family-owned hotel perfectly situated to watch the sun go down. Mirabo de Valldemossa is a rustic farmhouse dating back to 1503 when it used to serve as an olive oil press. The building was subsequently converted into a nine-room boutique hotel. Mirabo has been owned by the same family since 1898 and started welcoming guests in 2004. Management and staff are as charming as the hotel location.
The simplicity and warmth of the service are part of the hotel’s attraction. Amateur mixologists will be delighted by the fridge and liquor cabinet open to all guests to make their own cocktails. An honor system is still used here to track your consumption, which is pretty old-school nowadays. We strongly recommend asking for a room in front of the property for the best view. Also, you will want to dine at the hotel at least once for a home-cooked yet elevated meal. It will be after you order that second bottle of wine you’ll be happy you stayed in. The place is unpretentious and authentic, and sometimes that too can be a luxury.
What to do and where to eat
After a few days exploring the South-East of Mallorca, hit the road again and make your way to the popular Deia and Valldemossa. On the way, stop for lunch at an ancient fortified citadel, transformed into one of the world’s most unique hotels. Cap Rocat is another popular destination for luxury vacations in Mallorca known for its spectacular architecture, sumptuous spa, and privacy. Although the food isn’t particularly memorable, the cliffside location overlooking the sea is quite impressive and worth the detour.
Palma de Mallorca
A luxury vacation in Mallorca must include a worthy meal. Palma de Mallorca is the buzziest town on the island, so whether you start here or end here, it’s not to be missed. El Camino is noteworthy for a tapas feast of grilled octopus, pan con tomate, and Spanish omelette. Speaking of the famed tortilla Espanola, La Rosa Vermuteria & Colmado will be one of the best renditions you’ll have in all of Spain.
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