Hotel Sant Francesc, Mallorca

Location

Winner of Best Hotel in Spain & Portugal at the 2016 Condé Nast Traveller Reader’s Choice Awards, this converted 19th century manor house is located in one of Palma’s oldest quarters. Steeped in history, the building was the Elizabethan-era home of the Alomar Femenia family, a Neoclassical landmark which effortlessly blends cool, Mallorcan quarry stone with an elegant, French oak-beam aesthetic. Just a stone’s throw from the impressive Sant Francesc basilica and monastery, it’s a wonderful spot for people-watching and to enjoy one of the Balearic’s quieter corners.

Accommodation

Sant Francesc's 42 rooms – ten suites included – are meticulously appointed. Furnished in a clean, modern style, the occasional well-placed avant-garde flourish adds a touch of intrigue to otherwise muted tones. The must-have mod cons are all represented – HD televisions, Nespresso coffee machines, gourmet mini bars and Egyptian cotton sheets and towels – while generously sized windows look out to either the Sant Francesc Square, the hotel’s own gardens or its exclusive courtyard, Patio Mallorquin.

Dining

The main restaurant, Quadrat, is located in the mansion’s original stable block and offers elegant fine dining, skilfully prepared by head chef, Alfonso Lillo. The evening a la carte menu features dishes inspired by the great culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, each one brought up to date with a modern twist; light lunches and delicious breakfasts are equally inventive. Elsewhere, the lobby bar and patio lend themselves to convivial conversation and cooling, courtyard cocktails while the summertime rooftop terrace, with its pool, solarium and bar, serves champagne and sushi to views across Palma’s skyline.

Facilities

Framed by sweeping old town panoramas, the elegant rooftop pool provides a welcome retreat for sun-drenched relaxation. And, with its menu of Mediterranean-inspired treatments and massages, the wellness centre is a haven of indulgent tranquillity that belies its bustling location.