Magnificent Majorca
Dramatic landscapes, azure waters and cultural corners makes this Balearic Island the ideal honeymoon hotspot, says Anjana Gosai
The largest of the Balearic Islands and blessed with more than 300 sunny days-a-year, Majorca is a well-established beach, golf and party destination for British holidaymakers. But venture slightly off the beaten track to the largely unspoilt north west of the Island, you will find breathtaking coastlines, rugged mountain ranges, towns rich in art and culture and high-end luxury to rival Europe’s more traditionally-glamorous destinations.
DEIA
Nestled amongst the majestic Tramuntana mountains, yet boasting views of the sparkling Mediterranean waters, Deià, is a charming village that has become a magnet for celebrities and adventurers as well as a long-established hub for artistic talent.
Just 45-minutes from Palma Airport, this region of Majorca is a UNESCO world heritage site thanks to its picture-perfect landscapes and lush greenery giving it an old world, unspoilt feel. With a cluster of exceptional restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Es Racó d’es Teix- it’s no surprise that foodies often make a bee line for this idyllic municipality.
WHERE TO STAY: LA RESIDENCIA, A BELMOND HOTEL
This rocky hillside town is also home to one of Majorca’s most desirable properties – La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel. Furnished with local antiques, fabrics and over 750 works from local painters, this is a place which offers high-end luxury but with a creative soul. Home to an exclusive suite created by British fashion designer, Matthew Williamson, La Residencia unapologetically serves up the very best of everything from fine dining to spa indulgence to poolside relaxation and impeccable service.
Honeymooners will feel a million miles away from it all amongst the mountains which, according to local legend, emit positive, healing energy. Just what you need after all the excursions that come with getting hitched. There’s plenty to do at the hotel once you’ve settled into your rooms, which are spacious and serene with crisp linen and sumptuous pillows.
Bask in the views by the pool, as staff bring over cooling sorbets along with a tray of mini Natura Bisse sunscreen.
Pick from a range of therapeutic treatments at the award-winning spa or simply chill out in the indoor pool. A couple’s Citrus Siesta massage on the alfresco terrace is highly recommended – it’s the perfect spot to soak in the spectacular scenery while being pampered.
Art lovers can’t help but adore this place. Book into a sculpting class with sculptor-maestro Juan Waelder or an art class with residence artist Alan Hydes, who has some fascinating anecdotes to share about his celebrity clients. The ‘cava’ masterclass with resident sommelier is also popular. Those who prefer adventure can hire a Vespa to explore or venture out for a hike with expert guide, Eduardo.
For a memorable afternoon, take the complimentary shuttle from the hotel down to Ca’s Patro March. This restaurant sits so close to the crashing waves on a tiny cove known as Cala Deià, that you have to time your walk across the pebbles from the path to reach this rustic seafood eatery, in order to avoid the tides.
Evenings at ‘La Res’ are magical and best enjoyed sipping a cocktail in the citrus and ancient olive tree lined gardens before an indulgent dinner at one of the restaurants. The fine-dining El Olivo, set in a 17th-century olive mill, serves Majorcan breads and catch-of-the-day delights such as prawn ceviche with seaweed sour cream. The mountain-facing Café Miro comes to life with live music and they serve an unforgettable selection of traditional desserts. La Residencia is known as Mallorca’s grand dame and a vast proportion of guests return here year after year – it just has that effect on you.
PORT DE SOLLER & SOLLER
A buzzy and popular harbour village, Port de Soller offers a discerning alternative to Majorca’s more mainstream coastal resorts. With a marina studded with bars and restaurants, this horseshoe-shaped bay attracts holidaymakers and honeymooners alike.
The vintage tramway, nicknamed the ‘Orange Express’ due to the citrus groves it rattles past, is the only working tram in Majorca and connects Port de Soller with the nearby town of Soller. This postcard-pretty historical town features charming local eateries, cobbled streets and eclectic architecture including the imposingly-beautiful Neo-gothic church of Sant Bartolomeu.
WHERE TO STAY: JUMEIRAH PORT SOLLER HOTEL & SPA
Perched majestically on the cliffs overlooking the port and the gleaming Mediterranean Sea is the Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa. This luxurious retreat feels a world away from the bustle of the harbour, with panoramic views of the sea on one side and the towering Tramuntana Mountains on the other.
Its 87 rooms and 40 suites are thoughtfully spaced, ensuring the property never feels too busy. Each room comes with a balcony and large bathrooms, many of which boast glass-walled showers overlooking the sea. You can also expect high-end touches from Mühldorfer goose-down pillows to Natura Bisse amenities.
If you really want to soak in the views, head to the Sunset Lounge, where guests can sample a variety of Japanese-Peruvian delicacies amidst live DJs as the sun disappears into the sea. Formal dining can be enjoyed at the resort’s Cap Roig restaurant.
The jewel in the crown of this regal property is the incredible Talise Spa, a modern wellness centre including a sauna, Hamman suite and ten treatment rooms.
The spa’s outdoor hydro pool overlooking the mountains offers ultimate relaxation while the extensive spa menu includes treatments combining modern techniques with traditional ingredients, like crushed almonds and local olive oil.
While it may be tempting to lounge by the hotel’s impressive infinity pool throughout your stay, we recommend booking a speedboat for an afternoon. Explore the rugged coastline, relax on the waves, and venture into caves with a knowledgeable guide (try www.sollercharterexperience). Once the boat trip is over, grab a meal at Suculenta Port de Soller (www.suculentaportdesoller.com)– a fine dining restaurant that is perfectly placed right on the waterfront.
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