Hotel Palacio Ca Sa Galesa

This is a hotel where guests can completely disconnect and be submerged in a world of culture, history, and luxury. Expect to see genuine works of art by Miró, Guinovart, Calder, and Bennàssar on the walls, contrasted by imposing period furniture that accentuates the property's palatial feel, and truly gives the impression of stepping back in time. The stained glass windows in the on-site Menjador restaurant and in the Monet kitchen are enchanting, and there's a dining area that appears plucked straight from a Mediterranean version of Downtown Abbey. Though grand, the hotel also has a homey feel, owing to its small size and the way guests are encouraged to help themselves to items in the kitchen and library. One gets the sense that all of the art and splendor of the hotel is not only there to be admired, but also to be engaged with.

The Palacio Ca Sa Galesa is accessed via a narrow pedestrian street that opens up onto a striking Spanish courtyard, made all the more grand by its elaborate wrought-iron gate. Located in the heart of the old historical center of Palma, it's a five-minute stroll down the beachfront promenade from the city's famed Seu Cathedral and the majestic City Hall. Isolated enough to be a peaceful respite, the hotel is a 15-minute walk from the Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum, and it's under a 10 minutes' walk from Palma's main shopping and dining arteries. It basically overlooks the lush green Parc de la Mar, known for its strikingly perfect rows of palm trees. The Palma airport is under 15 minutes away by taxi.  

Each room at the Palacio Ca Sa Galesa is decorated with a unique theme dedicated to a famous musician. The Shubert Room, for instance, has a stately four-pillar bed, a plush salmon-colored sofa, and French doors overlooking a quiet leafy inner courtyard with a fountain. Its bathroom is marvelous -- equipped with a whirlpool tub for two, and its own stained glass window. The fixtures in the shower could be updated and upgraded, but otherwise, the space is huge and indulgent. There is a bath menu available, compete with strawberries and champagne. Rooms all have stocked minibars, flat-screen TVs, and safes. 

For a luxury boutique property with only 12 rooms, the Ca Sa Galesa offers a spectrum of amenities that rival those of much larger hotels. From free use of bicycles to free self-serve tea and cake in the afternoons, management is generous with guests and thoughtful in the services it provides. The spa offers a full-range of treatments and features, including a bath butler, Finnish sauna, sensations shower with aromas, and the option to have an outdoor massage on the hotel's terrace. The spa's revitalizing pool, nestled under a beautifully arched stone ceiling, is dreamy. With a row of chic cabana beds -- with iced buckets of champagne (for a fee) and loungers -- the terrace has beautiful views of the Seu Cathedral and the water. While there's no pool on the terrace, there's a small dipping area near the showers. There are also a small gym, library, and plenty of cozy artistic nooks to explore, both indoors and out. Breakfast -- served buffet, a la carte, or to-go -- is offered at Cafe Ricks daily; a terrace snack bar serves a light buffet; a la carte dishes are available all day in the restaurant; and Harrods teas and international coffees are served in the Monet Kitchen.