Belmond La Residencia

Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop

Set the scene

Enveloped by the diamond-bright Tramuntana Mountains and the virgin sapphire Mediterranean sea, the Belmond La Residencia Hotel in Mallorca resonates with an inviting tranquility that whispers a soothing, "Welcome home." Its majestic stature, with authentic townhouses painted in the warm hues of honey, the gentle echoes of ancient olive and lemon groves, along with the sun-kissed cobblestone streets enhance the hotel's charm, making it an epitome of Mediterranean elegance that seamlessly marries the rustic with the exotic.

Inside, this intimate retreat unfolds with an artistic flair that says much about the centuries-old cultural heritage of Mallorca. Flamboyant ceramics, traditional Spanish textiles, and modern art pieces by local artists adorn the hotel's public spaces, creating an inspiring, artistic scene that is equally idyllic. The hotel's lounge bears testament to the property's affinity for the arts - hosting regular exhibitions and art classes. The lobby, filled with exquisite sculptures, enchanting vistas of Deià and floating beams of sunlight illuminating its every corner set the scene for a truly immersive experience.

What can we expect in our room

Belmond La Residencia boasts of plush and luxurious rooms that serve as a perfect balance between traditional Mallorcan architecture and modern comfort. With predominantly white interiors, the feeling of tranquility is inevitable. Apart from that, the blend of the finest fabrics, beautiful local art pieces, and the mysterious island light add to the charm of the room. Terra cotta-tiled floors hold the wooden furnishings, draped in soft, elegant linens and comforters, creating a homely atmosphere in the midst of luxury.

The rooms feature all the modern amenities a discerning traveler could wish for, yet they retain a rustic charm with exposed wooden beam ceilings and soft lighting fixtures, which highlight the amalgamation of contemporary style and Balearic heritage. Each room is subtly different, adorned with individual pieces of artwork and traditional balearic furnishings. Some rooms also offer a private terrace with carved day beds overlooking the Tramuntana Mountains or the beautiful Mallorcan beaches and sea.

How about the food and drinks at the Belmond La Residencia

La Residencia has two primary dining establishments, El Olivio and Café Miró. El Olivio, set in a refurbished olive press, is renowned for its divine Mediterranean cuisine. The rustic ambiance of the stone walls paired with the aromas of the delectable dishes is an exquisite experience you can't miss. From freshly-caught seafood to succulent local lamb, the menu, curated by Chef Guillermo Mendez, seriously impresses with its mix of traditional Mallorcan recipes transformed by a contemporary twist.

A more casual but equally incredible gastronomic adventure awaits at Café Miró. Named after the artist Joan Miró, the café exhibits a splendid collection of his artworks, making it an exciting spot for art aficionados and foodies. The menu is vast, featuring delicious tapas, heavenly pastas, and mouth-watering pizzas from the traditional wood-burning oven. You may also pamper your palate with world-class wines in the inviting atmosphere of the hotel's Son Fony bar. Overlooking the pool, this Mediterranean-style patio bar is the perfect setting for an unforgettable al fresco dining experience.

What is the service like

Whether you're lounging poolside, sampling the sumptuous fare at El Olivo, or simply relaxing in the comfort of your room, the service consistently exceeds expectations. The dedicated concierge team is at your beck and call, ready to arrange your private island tours, book your spa appointments, or provide local recommendations that cater to your tastes. All these, paired with their vast knowledge of the locale, ensures a well-rounded and tailor-fit Mallorca experience.

What’s the neighbourhood scene like?

Nestled in the heart of the charismatic village of Deià, the Belmond La Residencia offers its guests an authentic slice of Mallorcan life. This culturally rich location is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with the hotel itself hosting rotating exhibits of local artists. As you step outside the hotel, cobblestone streets steeped in history welcome you, echoing the tales of the creative souls who've found inspiration here. You'll find charming local shops offering traditional crafts and eateries serving the best of Balearic cuisine.

The serenity of Deià is just one aspect of the surrounding charm. The hotel’s location at the foothills of the Sierra Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers guests awe-inspiring views and plenty of opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and communing with nature. On your explorations, you'll come across Cala Deià, a secluded pebbled cove for a delightful beach day.

What’s the backstory

Stepping back in history, the original buildings of the property date back to the 16th and 17th centuries when they served as manor houses for Spanish gentry.

The transformation into a luxury hotel took place during the mid-1980s when British visionary, Richard Branson, fell in love with the breathtaking beauty of Deià. He was instrumental in establishing the foundations for what is now known as the Belmond La Residencia. Today, this historic property is an ode to the village's artistic roots offering an exquisite blend of the pastoral charms with world-class amenities.

Price Range

Depending on the season, the accommodation expenses begin at around €400 per night for the double rooms and can soar up to €2000 for the exclusive villas. Add-on services, such as spa treatments, culinary experiences, and private excursions, are chargeable separately, which allows guests to customize their experience as per preferences and budget.

Amenities & Facilities

As soon as you set foot into your room, the vibrant colors cascading from traditionally painted tiles generate a comforting vibe, complemented by the conspicuous abundance of modern conveniences. Among these are air conditioning, Wi-Fi, television, mini-bars, and well-stocked bathrooms that mirror the care and concern, the management extends to your comfort.

Beyond the room, the facilities embrace a full spectrum of leisure-oriented attractions. Soak up the sun by the pool, breath in serenity at the spa, or break a sweat at the gym; For the artsy souls, there's an art studio and gallery sure to light up creativity. The youngest visitors have a kids club with a carefully curated program that ensures their enjoyment is not left by the wayside. And, let’s not forget, the tennis courts and outdoor yoga classes that will let you indulge in rigorous workouts.

How to get to the Belmond La Residencia Hotel in Mallorca

What Customers Have To Say

Contact:

Address: Carrer son Canals, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, Spain

Phone: +34 971 63 90 11

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.