Hotel Son Sant Jordi

Were it not for the hotel's banner advertisements hanging from its facade, this corner town house -- with its carved stone detailing and green shuttered windows -- would be close to picture perfect. Guests enter via an unassuming side entrance that leads into reception, an area only recognizable as part of a hotel by a chunky wood check-in desk and pair of wicker chairs. We were also welcomed by the caw of one of three resident exotic birds. While plenty of the building's original 17th-century features, such as elegant stone arches and exposed beams, remain immaculately preserved, a slightly jumbled mix of artworks and furniture create a particularly homey atmosphere -- and for good reason. Originally the home of the Salas family grandparents, the building was converted into a hotel around 2000, and is now run by the next two Salas generations. 

The main building surrounds a lovely, secluded garden dotted with orange trees, together with soaring palms, neatly tended lawns, and sculpted shrubbery. A brimming koi pond and a meandering path leads to a rear relaxation room and wellness area. While all the hotel's facilities and most guest rooms are located in the main building, accommodation is also spread over three surrounding properties, including one particularly rustic-style Majorcan townhouse around the corner (with a shared kitchen and lounge) and the newest addition, opened in 2017, just opposite. Two out of the four buildings have elevators. The hotel is open year round, attracting mostly couples from Britain and Germany, joined by families with kids over the summer months.

Positioned overlooking the small and charming Plaça de Sant Jordi square, the hotel features a particularly scenic and peaceful setting surrounded by other period town houses and an ancient church. It's just a few minutes' walk to the center of Pollenca and its main square lined with restaurants and cafes. Scattered around its quaint, narrow lanes are a mix of local shops, art galleries, and bars. Free private parking is available a few minutes' walk from the hotel (reservation needed). Alternatively, there's a free public car park five minutes away on foot. For stunning countryside views, the hilltop El Calvario church is a 10-minute walk away -- though it includes 365 steps. Less than 15 minutes away by car is the picturesque sandy bay and popular resort of Port De Pollenca. The buzzing, cobbled streets of Palma are around 45 minutes' drive (and it's the same to Palma de Mallorca Airport).

There are five room categories ranging from Basic to the One-Bedroom Apartment. Since the accommodations are spread between four buildings, picking a room can be a little confusing. There are eight rooms in the main building, most of which are Superior Rooms that are decorated in a traditional style with original features such as exposed stone walls and timber beams; these tend to overlook the garden or square. Standard Rooms are smaller and have street views. Basic Rooms are located in the rustic-style annex. Most Junior Suites have separate lounge areas; two feature rooftop terraces with lovely views over the town and countryside beyond. The newest annex opened in 2017, with six rooms and suites that mix bright contemporary decor with traditional island touches. 

All rooms include mini-fridges and coffee- and tea-making facilities. All rooms except for Basic Rooms have have flat-screen TVs. Wi-Fi is free throughout the properties, though speed can vary wildly. The Apartment includes a kitchenette, plus the addition of a record player (with some choice vinyl). The newer rooms also add cooking facilities such as microwaves, toasted sandwich makers, and kettles. Bathrooms vary from old-fashioned stone tile with shower/tub combos, to clean and contemporary with walk-in showers. All bathrooms include hairdryers; robes are available upon request.

For a boutique-style property, the hotel features a good range of facilities. Most facilities are contained within the garden, which includes a small, partially shaded freeform swimming pool that's surrounded by lawn and loungers. At the end of the garden is a separate building with games, reading room, and wellness area (opened in 2017). Spa facilities in the wellness space include a steam room, sauna, and lie-down whirlpool tub for two. The area is reservable for two hours and the fee includes Cava and fruit. Wi-Fi is free in all four buildings, and there's coverage in the garden.

Breakfast is always included in the room rate. The meal is served in a small room overlooking the garden and the options include hot eggs and sausages, plus a continental spread of cheeses, pastries, cereals, and Majorcan produce. Homemade marmalade is made from oranges grown in the garden. The hotel's La Placeta restaurant is open for lunch and dinner (except in winter). Diners choose from set and a la carte Mediterranean flavored menus. Tables spill out onto the cobbled stones of the square for a romantic ambience. Honor bars are also dotted around the property, so that guests can help themselves to a range of drinks.