La Residencia, Mallorca

Location

Idyllically nestled amid the ancient terraces and mountains of Mallorca’s peaceful northwest, this boutique hotel is considered to be among the finest in Spain. Lemon and olive groves surround its twin manor houses, which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries; it’s the scene for award-winning gastronomy and an indulgent spa, all set on the edge of the artists’ village of Deià at the foot of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tramuntana Mountains.

Accommodation

Meticulously designed and furnished to complement their historic, manor house setting, rooms and suites exude country-house charm. Bedecked in antiques and local artworks, the use of natural materials and traditional furniture are the perfect foil for in-room amenities that are resolutely 21st century – think iHome entertainment systems and flat screen LCD TVs. While gorgeous rural views come as standard, those seeking something extra special might look to the Exclusive suites, which add private terraces and plunge pools to an already-impressive array of in-room amenities.

Dining

Regarded as one of Mallorca’s best restaurants, El Olivo pairs gourmet à la carte dining with a wine list that, year after year, has achieved the prestigious Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. With sweeping valley views from its terrace and an ever-changing menu packed full of local specialities, it is a wonderful setting for a journey through Mallorca’s rich gastronomic landscape. For a more laid-back alternative, Café Miro serves delicious lunches, afternoon teas and dinners surrounded by no less than 33 original Joan Miró paintings. The tapas and regional favourites such as paella and Sóller prawns are best enjoyed with a cocktail or glass of wine while looking out from the terrace towards Deià and its majestic mountain backdrop.

Facilities

With its menu of treatments both refreshingly holistic and traditionally indulgent, Belmond La Residencia’s award-winning spa is a showcase for Mallorca’s rich botanical diversity. Six treatment rooms sit alongside an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and gym, all framed by the hotel’s enchanting mountain backdrop. There are two outdoor pools, too, along with two GreenSet Cushion tennis courts, a boutique, an art gallery and a sculpted garden while vespa tours and wilderness picnics – in the company of resident donkeys Pancho, Luna and Alba – are both wonderful ways to explore the hotel's bucolic surroundings. The hotel is also home to two resident artists who are always in for some painting and sculpting lessons.