Hotel Son Xotano

Hotel Son Xotano is a four-star adults-only haven nestled in Mallorca’s agricultural heartland near the historic town of Sineu, once the island’s capital and now famous for its lively weekly market. 

Surrounded by peaceful countryside, this estate harks back to the 12th century and its lush gardens and quiet corners offer the perfect place to unwind. 

At its heart sits the graceful honey-hued manor house complete with smokey blue shutters, dominating the estate in all its grandeur. 

This is the fourth hotel from the luxury boutique hotel brand Annua Signature and it’s first on Mallorca.  Local architects Clapés Pizà’s brief was to preserve and restore the character of the centuries-old estate while accommodating the needs of contemporary travellers. Interior desginer Virginia Nieto complemented the design by using natural materials, polished stone, whitewashed walls and fabrics in muted shades to create a contemporary haven of calm.

Welcomed on arrival by the friendly team, you will be wowed by the vast and airy entrada, which opens on both sides, leading to pathways and terraces that cleverly connect the spaces. 

The 22 rooms, including 14 spacious suites, each uniquely styled using natural light, contemporary décor including exposed stone walls and beams with textiles in creams and beiges with pops of colour giving a sense of tranquility. 

There are several room categories including studios, doubles, junior and superior suites laid out over three floors in the main house and adjacent buildings.

Some of the open-plan suites have free standing bathtubs and fire places for the cooler months and some have private gardens or sunny patios. Bathrooms are vast with handcrafted ceramic lapis blue tiles and sandstone basins, showcasing the island’s crafts while remaining up to the minute in design.

The studios and doubles on the top floor of the main house are stunning and have sloped ceilings with beams decked in ‘Teles de Llengüe’ fabric, unique to Mallorca. 

But perhaps my favourite is the Superior Junior Suite with Terrace which is exceptional with its vast private terrace overlooking the pool and gardens. 

The centrepiece of the hotel is the large and dreamy aquamarine pool flanked by sun loungers and pergolas.

Lazy days are encouraged by late breakfasts served overlooking the pool, with à la carte options and an impressive buffet spread with everything from fruits and yogurts to local delicious sweet pastries such as the famous ensaïmada. 

In the evenings Restaurante Son Xotano serves dinner al fresco with tables dressed in white linens offering views over olive trees and vineyards. The menu, designed by Menorcan chef José María Borrás, focuses on fresh local ingredients and local recipes with a twist. 

Time will drift by, potter around the estate, have a swim and read in a quiet shady spot. Son Xotano has created a peaceful retreat where calm reigns supreme.