Before making the decision to move to Mallorca, many of us will spend some time exploring the island by staying at various hotels. Quite often, it is during a stay at a boutique hotel in Mallorca that confirms the move for thousands of internationals who visit every year. Stories of relocating usually start with “After staying at XYZ hotel in Mallorca, we completely fell in love with the island…”
If you are on the cusp of moving to Mallorca or would like to know where to stay for an authentic experience of the island, check out Dr Helen Cummins‘ list below. Each hotel has been personally tried and tested by Helen and have been selected for their excellent attention to service, amazing location and beautiful taste in design.
Book a room at one of these hotels below and you’ll not find it easy to check out…
25. NIVIA Born
The elegant historical building occupied by the Nivia Born was once home to Iberian airlines original head office, a detail carefully considered in the design of this sophisticated boutique hotel. Luxury and nostalgia are blended harmoniously, with aviation artefacts harking back to the golden age of travel –the 1950s– woven into the sumptuous design. Rich colours, bold geometry, and opulent details pay homage to the Art Deco movement and are a further nod to days gone by. Sleek and stylized, this modernist hotel evokes glamour in every corner.
24. Carrossa Hotel Artá
A wellness marvel, the 75-room Carrossa Hotel is perfect for a relaxing and reinvigorating break away in Mallorca. A multi-room spa area, all-day restaurant, infinity pool, fitness room, citrus gardens and Balinese beds round up the offerings that attract locals and travellers alike. The guest rooms are designed with an emphasis on comfort, nature and greenery, and there is the option to stay away from the central mansion in a luxurious villa. There is also an in-house bodega where guests are invited to take part in wine tastings from Mallorca, or at Bar ORO where generous cocktails are served.
23. Hotel Portixol
Set in the Portixol harbour, this 25-room boutique hotel offers a relaxing seaside escape a pleasant 30-minute walk from Palma centre. With breezy Scandinavian style and fresh nautical touches, the rooms are defined by blue shuttered windows and spacious decked terraces. The hotel has a swimming pool, a small spa and a great Mediterranean restaurant serving fresh fish and seafood. Sunbathing on the terrace is one way to relax and if not, there is also a sauna and mini gym available among the facilities. Free bicycle hire means that guests can explore the promenade with ease and visit Palma’s top urban beaches.
22. Finca Can Coll - Boutique Country House Sóller
In stunning Sóller, amidst rambling citrus groves and wild flowers, is Finca Hotel Can Coll. It’s a country hideway, Mediterranean garden and historic wine cellar all rolled into one. Each room finds a unique way of immersing guests into the Mallorcan pace of life, with expansive views that overlook the evocative Northwest. Start the day at Can Coll with a sumptuous sunshine breakfast, followed by a long hike into Mother Nature’s playground by following a trail that crawls deep into the Serra de Tramuntana. Or for a shorter walk, Sóller is nearby where a foamy café con leche can be enjoyed while watching the comings and goings of daily island life.
21. Ecocirer
Housed in a former ice cream factory, Ecocirer Healthy Stay is located in the centre of the beautiful town of Sóller – an idyllic setting whose tranquillity is only interrupted by the sound of the famous wooden train occasionally trundling into the nearby station. The husband and wife team behind the Healthy Stay project are Barbara, a native Mallorcan, and Martjin, from Holland, and driven by a profound love of the island and a passion for creativity and sustainability, they shared a vision to open an ethical, yet luxurious, hotel for the eco-conscious visitor. A cornerstone of the Ecocirer ethos is healthy eating through a plant-based diet, sourced either from their own vegetable garden or from local farmers.
20. Finca Son Fogueró
Once frequented by international artists, Son Fogueró exudes rustic Bohemian vibes mixed with an old world, traditional Mallorca. Offering a fresh contemporary look with a decidedly authentic flavour, the rooms face the beautiful leafy gardens and pool. Its mission is to promote a holistic and spiritual life in harmony with nature and community. Guests can enjoy a full sugar-free, dairy-free, flexitarian menu and there are 100% recycled furnishings by Dareels Design in the rooms. Sustainability prevails here, as does rediscovering the self. This is the place to stop living on automatic pilot and reset, reconnect and rediscover. Finca Son Fogueró is a destination for those looking to merge nature and relaxation.
19. Can Estades
Can Estades is a beautifully restored 16th-century finca whose honey-hued stone walls are surrounded by sunny terraces and pretty Mallorcan countryside. What sets this rural retreat apart is the delightful hosts, Christiane and Norbert Amthor, who go out of their way to ensure their guests feel truly at home. The 13 guest rooms are each named after a fruit and feature typical terracotta tiled floors and exposed timber beams. Many of the rooms extend to balconies with lovely views of rural Mallorca. Enjoy a home-cooked breakfast by host Norbert served by his wife Christiane, relax by the pool, or take to one of the E-bikes available for rent. Concerts can also be enjoyed on the first Wednesday of every month from March to October.
18. Cas Xorc
This former oil mill set amidst fragrant orchards and sprawling olive groves underwent a careful restoration in 1998 and is now a Mediterranean oasis. The original features of this old country house have been charmingly mixed with rustic pieces and hand painted Mallorcan tiles. The beautiful building is also home to an authentic local restaurant, serving home-grown vegetables from the garden, drizzled in their very own olive oil. Guests can dine under the stars on the terrace or in the 100-year-old mill, Sa Tafona. With pristine natural surroundings and an address close to Sóller and Deià, including the ever famous Cala Deià, Ca’s Xorc adds a new layer of rustic luxury to this part of Mallorca.
17. Hotel Son Julia Country House
Pass through an imposing gated entrance and into the secluded domain of this grand and rather splendid country estate. With roots going back to the 15th century and a history of aristocratic residents, the property has maintained much of its period character. Close to the town of Llucmajor, the hotel is ideally ensconced in the area’s patchwork countryside and farmland. The 300-year-old gardens dotted with wild olive trees and cypresses, two outside pools and spa and outdoor tennis court, are more than enough to keep guests relaxed. The hotel’s restaurant, Las Bovedas, changes its menu daily and boasts a terrace with beautiful views of their own vineyard. Live music regularly accompanies the market-fresh dinner menu.
16. Sa Creu Nova Petit Palais
The essence of Mallorca lies within the walls of this 17-room adults-only hotel, which combines classic Mallorcan architecture with organic materials. Swish, immaculately presented interiors combine with an impressive collection of art at this truly exceptional property. Guests can enjoy two outstanding restaurants, Tess de Mar and Kairiku, which create unforgettable experiences for modern day foodies. The rooms all feature large pieces of artwork and come with broad comfy beds, rainfall showers and premium Chopard products. The white sands of Es Trenc are 20 minutes away and the salt fields too, the perfect chance to try the region’s famous ‘flor de sal’.
15. Convent de la Missió
Totally unique in Mallorca, this former 17th-century convent shares its space with a church and local monks. The history of the building has been fully embraced in its transition to a hotel and is disarmingly chic throughout. Set back from Las Ramblas, away from the noise and passing traffic, this 27-bedroom boutique hotel is filled with contemporary art and has its own underground spa and rooftop terrace. The famous Michelin-starred restaurant Marc Fosh is housed here, and serves fresh Mediterranean cuisine sourced from the local markets. Marc is the only British chef to have earned a Michelin star in Spain and his choice of wine list includes some of the best wines made in Mallorca.
14. Calatrava Mediterranena Sea House
Set beside Palma’s ancient city wall, Calatrava Hotel is really something for visitors to look forward to. It is located in Palma’s oldest quarter with stunning views of the sea and nearby Palma beach. The 16-room escape is a restorative world of graceful works of art, natural colours and intriguing historical features. The striking rooftop terrace sees many guests enjoy their breakfast surrounded by crystal blue views and terracotta rooftops. The peaceful spa is housed in a cosy, cave-like space and is equipped with a sauna, Jacuzzi, heated stone loungers and massage room. For visitors looking to explore Palma’s hidden history, Calatrava Hotel is in the best spot with Palma Cathedral and the Arab Baths close by.
13. Can Alomar Urban Luxury Retreat
A converted 15th century mansion, Hotel Can Alomar positions its sandstone architecture, exceptional cuisine and grandeur bedrooms centre stage. The hotel offers its regally designed common areas and beautiful terrace for romantic encounters and joyful conversations. Their onsite restaurant, De Tokio a Lima, is a pioneer in the local culinary scene and offers a Mediterranean meets Japanese cuisine that foodies will love. The viewing tower on the top floor has one of the best views of Palma Old Town and there is a rooftop pool to enjoy in the warmer months. Spa facilities are available and include a carefully curated treatment range using Spanish-made vegan products.
12. Can Simoneta Hotel
A long driveway lined with ancient olive trees leads up to the entrance of the luxury beachfront hotel Can Simoneta, immediately setting a tone of timeless seclusion for this fabulous five-star holiday retreat. The elegantly designed hotel was born out of a conversion of several historical buildings, including the refuge of an unwell monk seeking a restorative setting and salt baths. Its 12 acres of lush-yet-manicured gardens fringed with pine forests certainly provide the former. But it’s the clifftop setting that really steals the show, with numerous vantage points across the gloriously broad seaview panorama. The Can Simoneta Restaurant plays on delicious Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine, innovatively married together by chef David Moreno.
11. Jumeirah Port Soller hotel & Spa
Gorgeously situated and perfectly secluded, the iconic Jumeirah Port Soller is located high up in the Sóller mountain range. The sprawling white estate comprises of 11 low-rise buildings nestled into the hillside with access to Talise Spa, state-of-the-art fitness centre and two swimming pools. The hotel’s three restaurants, Cap Roig Brasserie, Es Fanals by Javier Sorano and Sunset Lounge are overseen by chef Javier Soriano and present some of the freshest seafood caught off the northwest coastline. Local wine and olive oil are offered on arrival and each suite comes with its own private views of the mountains or sea.
10. Pleta de Mar Hotel Canyamel
As well as its wonderfully minimalist design by acclaimed local architect Antoni Esteva, the setting of this five-star beachfront hotel in Mallorca is idyllic. Surrounded by lush forest and olive trees, the hotel has direct access to Cala Auberdans, a small pebble-sand beach. The adults-only accommodation offers absolute serenity and seclusion, total inmersion in nature and views overlooking a picturesque stretch of the Mediterranean Sea. The opportunities for relaxation are endless with an alfresco wellness centre on-site and the sea nearby. For dining, there is Sa Pleta by Marc Fosh which delivers the spirit of the Mediterranean through live fire cooking and earth-conscious ingredients.
9. Cal Reiet Holistic Retreat
Situated in the rural heart of Mallorca, only a short stroll away from picturesque Santanyí is Cal Reiet, a haven for guests who seek a tranquil world. The 15-bedroom retreat stands out for its dedication to wellbeing, which includes daily yoga classes and plant-based cuisine made using locally-sourced ingredients. The hotel restaurant aims to replenish its guests and offer a space to learn and grow. It is a place for like-minded travellers and locals alike to meet, connect and share experiences. Inside, the spacious rural-chic rooms offer Aromatherapy products and gorgeous country views. Wellbeing Coaches are also on hand for guests who seek holistic treatments.
8. Can Cera Mallorcan Luxury House
Situated between the Santa Eulalia and Sant Francesc churches, Hotel Can Cera is one of Mallorca’s more intimate hotels. For lovers of luxury and timeless Mallorcan style, the hotel is home to captivating large halls and high ceilings. It was once a 13th century palace which was rebuilt in the 17th century and no less elegantly restored later on. There is a spa with a sauna, steam bath and Jacuzzi to enjoy and breakfast is served island-style on the beautiful patio. Many cultural sights including the Arab Baths, Palma Cathedral and the Royal Palace of Almudaina are a short walk away, making it the perfect stay for history enthusiasts and couples alike.
7. Hotel Glòria de Sant Jaume
Hotel Glòria de Sant Jaume is tucked away on an ancient cobblestone street just off Paseo del Borne. The historic aristocratic palace has been on Palma’s historic registry since the 16th-century and has been carefully preserved by the owners, Heidi Wolf and Jordi Cabau. Archways, arcades and columns are all part of the hotel’s palatial interior, which includes a bistro-style restaurant, champagne bar, long indoor pool and treatment rooms with hammam, sauna and relaxation lounge. The rooms are all individually decorated with art and antiques from the owners’ personal collection and hand-painted tiles from Mallorca are given precedence. The décor is eclectic Parisian meets Belle Epoque, the perfect place for a romantic five-star stay in the city.
6. Forum Hotel
Handsome stone walls and contemporary interior design makes this hotel feel distinctly upscale. Set in Alcúdia’s main square, Forum Hotel combines noble sandstone, pine beams and a calming palette of muted tones. The courtyard features an L-shaped pool with massage cascade plus poolside loungers. There’s a small bijou spa which is equipped with a Jacuzzim sauna, steam bath and sensory shower. Another perk is the roof terrace where guests can recline with a cocktail in hand and enjoy views over the town. Just a few minutes away are Alcúdia’s ancient stone walls and famous open-air market. Guests celebrating a birthday or anniversary at the hotel can expect a chilled bottle of cava on the house.
5. Sant Francesc Hotel
Amid the narrow streets of Palma’s Old Town is a hotel with serene spacious suites and a spectacular roof terrace overlooking an impressive Basilica. Sant Francesc Hotel sits at the core of Palma’s old quarter and is part of the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels of the World association. A historical palace, once owned by the Alomar family, the hotel serves as a wonderful opportunity to step back in time. Flowers adorn the hallways, the courtyard stands just as it did hundreds of years ago and the interior is defined by contemporary furniture and old island concepts. Photographs by Barbara Vidal tell the story of the hotel’s reformation, and the restaurant presents a delicious range of local dishes.
4. El Llorenç Parc de la Mar
The past and present interweave at this luxurious seafront hotel in La Calatrava. Ancient Arabic art is the inspiration for the décor while innovative technology will satisfy the most discerning 21st century traveller. The ancient Palma neighbourhood is surrounded by atmospheric squares, significant monuments and unique boutiques. Stepping onto the multi-terraced rooftop, visitors will discover a breathtaking panorama. The views overlooking the bay of Palma and the iconic sandstone Cathedral enhance every alfresco meal, cocktail, or swim in the infinity pool – which is the largest in the city with a sea view. The renowned Mallorcan Chef Santi Taura runs the two independent restaurants, with DINS a Michelin star winner in 2020.
3. Es Racó d'Artá
The Es Racó estate dates back to at least the time of the Moorish occupation. It passed along through various Mallorcan families before falling into the hands of two friends: respected architect, Toni Esteva, and master builder, Jaume Danús. The fruit of their partnership is a beautifully understated five-star wellness retreat, where top-level lodgings, world-class spa facilities and stunning natural surroundings all infused with a Zen-like calm. Most visitors to Es Racó come to reboot – to disconnect, immerse in nature, and savour the silence and stillness. And most of the hotel’s facilities and activities reflect this. Its spa is a masterclass in minimalist design, an exquisitely calming space where time seems to stand still.
2. Finca Serena Mallorca
Designed to enliven all the senses, this 5-star holistic hotel has been carefully designed to encapsulate the essence of Mediterranean living. The estate’s stone buildings date back to the 13th century and are set on 40-hectares of farmland with olive groves, cypress trees, fields of lavender, orchards, pine trees and native vineyards. This natural landscape carries through into the interior, which brings together muted earthy tones and natural materials. Guests can unwind at the Único Spa with a therapeutic massage, fall into Egyptian cotton clad beds or tuck into dishes of Mallorcan heritage at Restaurant Jacaranda, made with vegetables picked straight from the hotel’s garden.
