The St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort

Built in 2002 and slightly reminiscent of a McMansion from the outside, the hotel is pleasant to look at, but lacks local flourishes. It could just as easily be in Miami or Boca, which is unfortunate, given the very rich charm and artistic flavor of the island of Mallorca. That said, it is extremely luxurious, set back behind majestic black iron gates that open onto the very impressive lot of property that the hotel commands. Expect to see black Mercedes and chauffeurs waiting for guests, coteries of merry champagne drinkers at the bars -- and guests keen to unwind with cigars and whiskey at elegant Churchill's Lounge, complete with billiards and leather seating.

The St. Regis Mardavall is located in a quiet area of the island and on a huge lot of property, which very effectively isolates the resort and contributes to its cachet. The closest beach, which is located a two-minute walk away, is average, with uninspiring waters (don't expect to see postcard-perfect aquamarine here), rocky sand, and a lonesome jetty. There are abundant golf options within the area (including Son Vida, the oldest course on the island), with free and frequent shuttles from the hotel. Most points of interest must be accessed by car or taxi, with the center of Palma a 20-minute drive away. The airport is a 20- to 30-minute drive.

The rooms at the St. Regis Mardavall aren't anything that would be seen in a travel glossy, but pleasant nonetheless, with balconies and flat-screen TVs. The decor is modern and tasteful, but some rooms feel more like luxury condominiums than luxury hotel rooms; that extra element of design and indulgence that makes a hotel stay memorable is missing. There are a few nice features, like a French writing desk, but otherwise, the rooms have a basic white and beige color scheme with the occasional accent wall or piece of artwork, and very mainstream lighting fixtures. The bathrooms are more memorable, with elegant dark marble, stall showers, gleaming chrome fixtures, and a generous supply of branded toiletries. Some balconies are spacious enough to fit a lounger or two, though the the Blue Oasis Suite comes with its own small fleet of loungers -- and a private pool. Some higher-tier rooms have bathtubs and full kitchens, as well.

Foodies are well-served by this hotel, which is home to Es Fum, a Michelin-star restaurant serving up creative twists on local cuisine that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate. Aqua Brasserie is more casual, serving Mediterranean and Mallorcan fare for lunch and dinner, with garden views. The hotel bar, Es Vent, is also very elegant, serving tapas and cocktails with a sweeping terrace to enjoy them on. The hotel's spa, one of the largest in Europe, is exquisite. Offering everything from Traditional Chinese medicine to a rejuvenating Egyptian brine bath, it is a stunning space connected to the outdoors by water, which is a nice touch; the indoor and outdoor pools converge under the glass exterior windows of the spa. The fitness center is elegant, with wood, mirrors, and modern equipment. The outdoor pool is large and vivid blue, surrounded by a spacious deck and green lawn. There are a kiddy pool and small outdoor playground.