Can Bordoy Grand House and Garden

The Can Bordoy Grand House and Garden is a charming, boutique hotel located in the heart of Palma.

• The secret garden for indulging in morning coffees or lounging by the pool
• The character, serenity and unique ambiance in the center of bustling Palma
• The attention to detail and remarkably generous staff
• The merge of old and new, as the property is a 16th century estate infused with mid-century modern design

Located in the La Lonja neighborhood—Palma de Mallorca’s historic center—the Can Bordoy Grand House was renovated with the aim to make every guest feel at home, and in this they succeeded. A stay here feels much more like staying at the owner’s “grand house” than a hotel: the interior restaurant feels like a dining room, the suites like decadent bedrooms and the incredibly attentive staff like generous family friends.

Mallorca architecture firm OHLAB redesigned by this 16^th-century-estate-turned-chic-hotel—which was also briefly a nunnery in the 1970s. In spite of the modern touches and amenities, it has retained much of its old charm. Inspired by the traditional Japanese technique of Kintsugi (the art of repairing broken items with gold dust), the hotel embraces historic imperfections, and the attention to detail is impeccable, with beautiful floors, a stunning staircase, chandeliers and a courtyard steeped in light.  Each of the 24 rooms is tailored a little differently, infused with a luxurious essence and gorgeous details without feeling stuffy or stale. Upon entering my suite, the wooden cabinet that also serves as a minibar was playing jazz on the Can Bordoy radio station (the hotel created three unique channels for guests to use). The room was spacious and comfortable, blending mid-century modern touches and old-world glamour—velvet curtains, unique furniture pieces and sweeping windows. Each room includes an extra-large king-sized bed with adjustable mattress firmness on each side, concierge service, a rain shower, evening turn-down service and designer furniture.

My favorite part of the hotel was the “secret garden,” a lush escape from the bustle and heat of Palma. The shaded garden has a swimming pool surrounded by trees and serves as one of the breakfast, lunch and dinner spots on property. For those seeking relaxation and pampering, the candle-lit spa is set between stone walls, and includes a Dornbracht horizontal shower, whirlpool, steam bath and double massage cabins. There is also the option to enjoy wellness treatments in a secluded section of the garden. Not to be missed, the notable restaurant Botánic serves plant-forward cuisine consisting of inventive, colorful and delicious tapas. The rooftop terrace includes a small plunge pool for guests seeking a dip surrounded by panoramic views of the historic neighborhood.

Couples and friends looking for a vibrant hotel full of character, authenticity and individuality in Palma.

The location is wonderful. The hotel is tucked in a quiet neighborhood only a short walk from some of the best shopping, restaurants, cafes, harbor and the iconic Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca. A taxi ride from Palma airport is 25 minutes.