Inside Mallorca’s Hottest New Hotel, Gran Hotel Margalida

During the summer months, it can be hard to find true calm in Mallorca. The Balearic island has long been one of the most popular European destinations (including among A-list circles), drawing in big crowds year on year. But perched atop a hillside on the western coast, you’ll find a slice of quiet: Gran Hotel Margalida. The new hotel is nestled in Banyalbufar, a rural village where centuries-old agricultural terraces cascade down to the ocean, overlooking the Tramuntana mountains beyond (indeed the name Banyalbufar means ‘built by the sea’). C&TH’s Ellie Smith was among the first to check in.

Hotel Review: Gran Hotel Margalida

The latest opening from the Annua Signature Hotels group (which also includes modern farm-style boutique estate San Xotano), Gran Hotel Margalida is a far cry from the glitzy mega-resorts lining the coast of Mallorca. With just 29 rooms and suites, it’s designed to feel like a home from home – albeit an exceptionally chic one. 

The Vibe

Designer Virginia Nieto and Spanish architects Alvaro Onieva and Alvaro Mesonero Romanos worked together to nail the sun-washed aesthetic, with the interiors carefully crafted to capture the island’s shifting light. A signature yellow palette spreads throughout the hotel, from the statement parasols on the terrace to the Loewe candles dotted around the lobby to the striped waistcoats donned by the staff. Meanwhile, pops of nautical blue, striped upholstery and geometric patterns create an almost yacht-like vibe – helped by the fact that every single space in the hotel is ocean-facing. The overall effect is a real feast for the eyes; I couldn’t stop snapping pretty little corners of the property (and spotted many fellow guests doing the same). 

(c) Ellie Smith

Rooms are suitably stylish, each boasting its own balcony, terrace or private garden. We checked into a Superior room, which was kitted out with a king-sized bed, rainfall shower, Aesop toiletries and portable Marshall speakers. Personal touches add to the homely feel, such as handwritten notes telling you what time sunset will be each evening.

Aside from its appearance, the beauty of Gran Hotel Margalida lies in its slow pace. This is a place to truly switch off: slow mornings merge into lazy afternoons by the pool, with no pressure to do anything other than simply be. The wellness facilities are also particularly impressive for a small hotel. There’s a well-equipped gym complete with TechnoGym equipment and two reformer pilates beds, plus a spa featuring a cold plunge, sauna and steam room. Guests can book treatments too, from ayurvedic massages to foot reflexology; I enjoyed a blissful facial with Natura Bisse products, which left my skin glowing for the rest of the holiday. 

It is worth dragging yourself out of the hotel, though, for a trip down to the sea. Cala Banyalbufar is a secluded bay located a ten-minute walk down the hill from the hotel (or a speedy ride in one of the hotel’s golf buggies, which you may want to arrange for the steep journey back up). Go early morning or early evening for a peaceful swim in clear waters. 

If you want to explore more of the island, the beautiful coastal villages of Deià and Soller are just a short drive away, while you can reach Palma in around 40 minutes.

(c) Ellie Smith

The Food & Drink

Food and drink is another highlight. The main restaurant boasts unparalleled sea views, and is particularly magical at sunset, with a seasonal Mediterranean menu making the most of the bountiful produce of the Tramauntana region. Begin with starters like a generous helping of pink tomatoes topped with creamy stracciatella cheese and drizzled in basil pesto, or wood-roasted escalivada (a traditional Catalan dish made with smoky roasted vegetables) studded with crispy nuggets of camaiot (a cured pork sausage local to the Balearics). Follow with fresh fish like grilled dentex, served with a Beurre Blanc sauce, or Senyoret rice – a classic seafood paella made here with prawns and free-range chicken. Finish with desserts including a peach tartare tatin paired with yoghurt ice cream, or an indulgent 70 percent chocolate and carob creation flavoured with Mallorcan olive oil and Es Trenc sea salt. All this can be enjoyed alongside local and fine wines, cocktails and mocktails (I’m currently pregnant and a friendly bartender whipped me up a drink that tasted delightfully similar to an Aperol Spritz).

(c) Ellie Smith

A poolside lunch is a must here too; think poke bowls, jamon croquetas and burgers, delivered right to a little table set up by your sun lounger. The breakfast offering, meanwhile, features made-to-order dishes including acai bowls, yoghurt and granola, eggs and avocado-on-toast, alongside pastries, fruit and Mallorcan charcuterie.

In-keeping with the ultra-relaxed vibe, service is informal and friendly – but staff are there to cater for your every whim via WhatsApp. We were impressed with how quickly the team responded to our requests and questions (even in the middle of the night, when we were struggling to work the air con properly). 

(c) Ellie Smith

C&TH Key Notes

The Dish To Order – Whatever grilled fish is on offer

The Room To Book – For a real treat, the Sunset Suite features a bathtub with sea views

The Experience To Organise – The team can arrange a gourmet picnic among the local vineyards

The Drinks Spot To Visit – Have a sunset cocktail and some freshly shucked oysters at The Oyster Bar

The Spa Treatment To Book – The Diamond Glow facial

The Last Word

Gran Margalida is adults-only, and attracts a sophisticated clientele – mainly couples and solo travellers. My husband and I were there on a babymoon, and it felt like the perfect place to spend our final holiday as a two. 

Book It

annuahotels.com