Where to stay in Mallorca

It’s no secret that I have a soft spot for Mallorca. It’s incredible to think how many luxury hotels have opened (and are still opening!) since I started coming here 20 years ago. There really is something for everyone, from the smaller boutique properties to the full on 5 star grand hotels. Here are some of my favourites:-

Portixol Hotel (Palma)

This is one of my all time favourite hotels on the island. It is small, about 25 rooms and located on the edge of the city within walking distance of the old town. It has such a lovely relaxed vibe, fantastic staff -some of whom have been here for a long time and great food. In the summer, the small pool comes into its own and the daily set lunch menu is great value with seating overlooking the pool. Rooms are all different sizes, one of my favourites is the corner terrace, Scandi chic with every luxury amenity. With restaurants, cafes and bars on the doorstep as well as a walk by the sea in both directions, it really is one of a kind. And all within 15 mins from the airport.

Concepcio by Nobis (Palma)

Concepcio by Nobis opened a couple of years ago and is a good addition to the Palma Hotel Scene. In one direction you can walk in to the old town and in the other Santa Catalina beckons. Our room was small but perfectly formed with all the usual luxury amenities. I particularly loved the locally handcrafted tiles both in the room and throughout the hotel. The staff were delightful and the restaurant is as good for breakfast as it is for dinner. The small pool and terraces are an absolute dream in the summer months. A really great little hotel in the middle of the city.

Sant Francesc Hotel (Palma)

This is a beautiful restoration of a 19th century Manor House in the heart of the old town. The public areas are stunning and bedrooms are modern and well equipped. Breakfast can be taken inside in the beautiful vaulted room or outside in the small garden. It’s the rooftop terrace that really steals your heart as you can cool down in the small pool while sipping cocktails overlooking the church. This is still one of the best despite the ever growing number of new openings in the city.

Stay Catalina (Palma)

Stay Catalina might not be the most luxurious property in this list but it is definitely worth knowing about. There are five apartments, 2 one bed studios, 2 two bedroom apartments and a penthouse, all with outside space. They have everything you need to feel like home, surrounded by cafes, bars and restaurants, the kitchen facilities can wait if you don’t feel like cooking and if you do it is within easy walking distance of the market. Located in trendy Santa Catalina, these apartments are also great value.

Puro Grand (Palma)

Puro Grand, a beautiful 15th century palace, is a recent opening in the heart of Palma. With just 16 rooms, this luxury boutique hotel feels intimate without being claustrophobic. Treat yourself to a suite where you will be rewarded with space and style. The vibe is relaxed, unpretentious and the staff are only too happy to organise anything you need. The public spaces are gorgeous and the food is good. Would definitely recommend, I mean who wouldn’t rather stay in a palace?

Esplendido (Puerto de Soller)

Esplendido belongs to the Portixol group ( same family as Portixol Hotel) and is located in a fantastic position on the front at Puerto de Soller. A delighful seaside hotel where couples and families easily co-exist. Think vintage vibes with a modern Scandinavian touch. This group know how to create the perfect atmosphere and staff are enthusiastic and ever ready to help. Delicious food, good facilities and excellent location make for a fabulous holiday.

Can Ferrerata (Santanyi)

Another recent opening and sister hotel to Sant Francesc, Can Ferrerata is a peaceful oasis in the centre of Santanyi. A 32 room luxury boutique hotel, it really is sublime in every way. A 17th century mansion with contemporary interiors, it feels a world away from civilisation but walk out of the door and find yourself in the heart of lovely Santanyi with its weekly market and choice of cafes and restaurants. The pool area is blissful and lunch overlooking the pool with a glass of rose in hand is hard to beat. The staff are also delightful. Book with its sister hotel, Sant Francesc and you have the best of both worlds in Mallorca. Note: Can Ferrerata has an over 14 children’s policy.

La Residencia (Deia)

La Residencia proudly sits overlooking the village of Deia and is a haven of luxury. The hotel is housed in an old building and interiors are calm and maintain a sense of place. Service is excellent and there is a variety of dining options including El Olivo which really is spectacular on a summer’s evening. It feels a world away from reality with the mountains in one direction and the sea in the other. A relaxed atmosphere pervades throughout and facilities include spa and tennis court. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff and this all sits within walking distance of this special village.

Cap Rocat (Cala Blava)

It is impossible to be unimpressed by Cap Rocat. An ancient fortress on the sea with beautiful views across the Bay of Palma, this stunning 29 room hotel feels like you have stepped into another world. Yet only 10 minutes from the airport, it is well placed for a weekend break or to explore the island. The rooms are spacious with plenty of outside space (our room had three terraces!) and breakfast arrives by buggy if you opt to have it in your room. With two dining options (the informal Sea Club restaurant being one of my favourites on the island) and a host of facilities, Cap Rocat is not to be missed. Cap Rocat also aims to generate zero plastic waste, taking its sustainability initiatives seriously.