Sheraton Mallorca Arabella Golf Hotel

Pulling off a steep winding road, a discreet driveway lined with tropical potted flora leads to the porticoed entrance of the Sheraton Mallorca Arabella Golf Hotel. The mood is serene, secluded, and upscale from the start, as the only sounds are of a courtyard fountain accompanied by the chirps of local birdlife. Inside, the lobby's understated interiors combine checkered marble floors, dark wood paneling, and a palette of muted earth tones. Toward the rear of reception, automatic doors slide open to an elegant terrace balustrade for an opportunity to soak up the property's breathtaking surrounds -- a majestic panorama of verdant hills that stretch the length of the horizon. More immediate greenery is found in the diverse gardens comprising over three acres and 300 species of exotic and local plant life, from giant cacti and hot-pink bougainvillea, to soaring cypresses, mature palms, and weeping willows. 

Built in the early 1990s, the building itself has the feel of a grand Mediterranean villa with traditional terra-cotta tile roofs, carved wood eaves, and shuttered windows. A nine-month refurbishment was completed in 2013, transforming and updating interiors throughout and giving the property an elegant finish. A varied collection of modern art also adds to the sophisticated mood, and even includes a piece by the celebrated Catalan painter Miro. Principally a golfing hotel, clientele leans toward older, well-heeled types -- many from Germany -- though excellent family-friendly facilities also attract plenty of young families.

The hotel is nestled amongst the lush and spectacular hills of the exclusive Son Vida neighborhood, just beyond the northwestern fringes of Palma de Mallorca. The property is surrounded by four golf courses; the 18-hole Son Vida course is just next door and a free shuttle service runs to the others. However, those hoping to explore the area on foot will be disappointed, as there aren't any dining or shopping opportunities within walking distance. Public transport is also scarce, though local taxis arrive swiftly and its just 10 to 15 minutes to the numerous bars, restaurants, and boutiques of Palma, as well as its picturesque Old Town. The nearest sandy beach can be found around 10 minutes' drive away in the Cala Major district, while Palma de Mallorca Airport is 20 minutes away by road.

All 93 rooms received a makeover during the property's 2013 renovations, and they mirror the chain's signature muted earth tones, with plenty of dark-wood veneer, patterned beige carpets, and soft rattan furnishings. The overall effect is certainly attractive but a bit generic. Colorful backlit artworks depicting Majorcan windmills reference the locale and add some much-needed personality. While not all rooms feature balconies, most of those that do overlook the gardens and scenic hills, or the golf course; a handful of rooms overlook the entrance and front gardens.

Bathrooms are sleek and finished in black marble with contemporary fixtures, plentiful fluffy towels, and quality bathrobes. Walk-in showers have both rainfall and directional heads, while Junior Suites add separate tubs. In-room tech includes 32-inch flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and free Wi-Fi (for up to four devices) and guests can connect to reception via WhatsApp or Blackberry Messenger. Rooms also have Delonghi coffeemakers, kettles, and minibars with free water -- though these are otherwise empty and items must be requested.

Just off the lobby is the hotel's main restaurant Es Carbo, which provides a comprehensive and top-quality breakfast buffet service that's included in room rates. In addition to the usual breads, cereals, fruits, sausages, and bacon, there are freshly-squeezed orange juice, chilled Cava (sparkling wine), and a cooking station offering made-to-order eggs. Directly off the buffet area is a large terrace with semi-circular banquets with marble tables and views over the golf course. The restaurant next opens for dinner and offers seasonally inspired dished from around the world. The chic Bodega del Green offers a tapas-centric menu for lunch and dinner, and also has a spacious patio area and excellent wine list. However, the hotel doesn't offer much of a nightlife scene, with just one small bar in the lobby.

The main freeform swimming pool is spacious and deep, meaning it can be a little chilly before the sun has had a chance to heat it up. The surrounding lounge chairs are comfy, and there are plenty of large beach towels plus attentive waiter service; a lifeguard is also always on duty. Guests have direct access to the indoor pool from outside, which is heated. The Shine Spa offers a whirlpool tub, steam bath, sauna, and four treatment rooms. A whole section of the grounds is dedicated to child-friendly facilities, equipped with a shaded splash pool, a family pool (closed October through May), a playground, and an excellent kids' club supervised by staff. Sports facilities include a gym with cardio equipment and free weights, two floodlit tennis courts, and a beach volleyball court. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.

The Sheraton used to be an all-inclusive golf hotel (in which the green fees were automatically included in the room rates), and despite that this is no longer the case, golf is still certainly the hotel's main draw. The picturesque, 18-hole Son Vida right next door is Majorca's oldest golf course and has a club house and a putting green. A free shuttle service is also available to the other two 18-hole courses of Arabella Golf Son Muntaner and Arabella Golf Son Quint, as well as the Arabella Golf Son Quint Pitch & Putt. Unlimited golf rates are available, and guests of the hotel also get special green-fee discounts.