Mallorca’s capital is most definitely one of the Mediterranean’s hotspots for hip hotels, a favourite port of call for style hunters and luxe lovers. Palma’s hotel scene is even more decadent and exciting, with the opening of Can Bordoy Grand House and Garden, writes Andrew Forbes (@andrewaforbes).
The team have brought a new style of hospitality to the capital; it’s more than just personalised luxury, this feels more like an elite lifestyle, complete with decadent parties that capture the energy and style of a bygone age of extravagance.
A New Lease of Life
You may recall that last year I visited the property, when it was undergoing restoration and reconstruction. I was offered a privileged insight into what was planned for this spectacular house and private garden. You can read all about my sneak peek into Can Bordoy Grand House and Garden here.
Owner Mikael Hall has realised his vision for authentic luxury, creating, in my opinion, one of the finest small luxury hotels in Spain. This mansion-house with walled garden and pool brings the glamour and elegance of a bygone age together with the discreet use of technology and all the creature comforts one might expect from a contemporary, exclusive hotel.
The house has been brought to life by a welcoming and highly professional team that go the extra mile to truly personalise the experience. From the moment I was collected at the airport in the Can Bordoy Range Rover, I was embraced by the warmth and style of this Grand House hotel.
Grand House and Garden
This is indeed a Grand House; an evocative, historic home with one of the largest private gardens in the city centre. Now that it has been decorated it is fabulous – when I arrived it was like walking onto a movie set!
Renovated with flawless style, it has a magical feel, with twisted greenery decorating the public rooms, as if the secret garden still hasn’t fully relinquished this once-abandoned mansion.
The team at the house promise that it captures an ambience of ‘decadent romanticism’ – I couldn’t agree more!
The garden with mature trees, shaded seating areas, romantic, private corners, and an elegant pool is a real joy – an urban oasis unique in the old town.
It also makes for a very special space for live music events and Can Bordoy Grand House and Garden’s famous seasonal parties.
Rooftop
There’s also a rooftop plunge pool, and sun deck – with views over old town.
Dining
Even if one is not a guest, one can experience some of the magic Can Bordoy Grand House and Garden at Botanic. The house restaurant offers a wholesome, nourishing experience, with dishes by Chef Andrés Benitez. He is a conscious chef, mindful of the environment, health and wellbeing – and these values are perfectly balanced with his skill and creativity with recipes and presentation. Each day there are seasonal specials, as well as weekly events like barbeques.
The kitchen is open all day offering dishes that can be enjoyed at any hour – including all-day breakfasts. The evening sees a sophisticated, seasonal tasting menu of healthy gourmet cuisine.
I just love this flexible, intuitive way to dine – totally in keeping with the experience of staying in a mansion house.
Enhancing the dining experience, you could do no better than turn to Emiliano Mei, sommelier of Can Bordoy – who will bring the story of watch wine to life, and pair each dish perfectly.
Spa & Wellness
The subterranean spa is what one might call bijou – its small but so perfectly conceived. The materials, the lighting, the aromas – it creates a tranquil sanctuary for personalised treatments and a place to relax with heat and water. At this level, the walls date back to the 12th century and resonate with history.
24 Guest Suites
Once you enter you suite, you experience the Can Bordoy ‘wow factor’ on a personal scale – where each element of the space has been customer-designed and decorated. The rooms are exceptional – the welcome so stylish.
Each guest space includes custom-made furniture, like the bespoke in-room cocktail bar which really is quite something – it sets the tone for a decadent, indulgent, yet refined experience.
The smart TV is disguised within a large gilt mirror – keeping the illusion of a period mansion that although has all the contemporary technologies,(including a tablet for guest use) maintains a magical, timeless quality.
The king-size beds have adjustable electric mattresses; and of course, the linens are luxe.
I particularly liked the curtains that can surround the bed – heavy, extravagant velvet that allow you to feel cocooned and cosy at night.
Each room includes original period features. My suite had a marble fireplace and even ceiling frescos!
The bathrooms cleverly incorporate private spaces such as the shower and the W.C. with open space for the designer wash basins and the huge bathtubs that invite you to lie back and relax.
Everything has been created thoughtfully – from the conscious decision to offer bathroom amenities in locally made ceramics (rather than single-use plastic) to the high-quality amenity kit in the bathroom.
Beach Club
Mallorca is a favourite Mediterranean island and is famous for its beaches and coves. Can Bordoy Grand House and Garden has teamed up with an exclusive beach club to offer guests the opportunity to combine a city break in Palma’s old town with a day on the beach, including transfers and experiences such as boat trips.
Information
Discover more on the hotel’s wonderful website, full of enthralling photos, fascinating stories and useful information. The team will plan your stay, including a range of unique travel experiences so you get to enjoy the best of Mallorca.
Contact Details
Website: www.canbordoy.com
Address: Carrer del Forn de la Glòria, 14, Centre, 07012 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain