In a nutshell: A sophisticated boutique hotel and spa near picturesque Pollença that’s inspired by its roots.
Price point: £££
The neighbourhood
Nestled in the lush foothills of northern Mallorca’s Serra de Tramuntana, this renovated 18th century Jesuit monastery is near the wild Formentor peninsula, close to some of the island’s most exquisite coves and sandy beaches. Palma de Mallorca Airport is a 45-minute drive away.
A short bike ride or car journey takes you to the charming town of Pollença 3km away, where an extensive market sells typically Spanish gifts and local produce. The striking landscape can be taken in from the top of the 365 ancient stone Calvari steps – worth the climb even on a hot day. There’s also the possibility of taking a boat excursion from Port de Pollença along the coast of Mallorca to spot the Cap des Pinar, historical sites and local wildlife; look out for wild donkeys and goats grazing on the seashore, captivating jellyfish in the turquoise waters and La Fortaleza, the 17th century cliff top fortress that features in BBC spy drama The Night Manager.
Neighbouring properties are all but non-existent. Instead, the hotel’s rooms offer panoramic views over more than 30 hectares of unspoiled land, with vast groves of olive, orange, lemon and almond trees and vineyards set to a backdrop of mountainous countryside.
The look
The hotel is a fusion of contemporary aesthetics and historic relics that celebrate the golden building’s heritage as a monastery. A palette of millennial pink and white walls contrast handsomely against gold leaf ceilings and charcoal grey polished concrete flooring that also features surviving sections of the original pebbled walkways.
Other preserved original architecture includes the star-shaped impression in the floor at the entrance of the hotel and a curious ancient staircase that leads to nowhere in the restaurant, adding character to this remarkably well-restored building. Perhaps most striking are the magnificent, decades-old olive presses in the bar area.
Son Brull is spacious but not overwhelmingly so – it doesn’t take long to become familiar with the site.
The vibe
The atmosphere is tranquil; stresses melted away from the moment we checked in The family-run business’s ethos is deeply rooted in traditional Mediterranean values, with nature at the core of what it does. Also key to the brand is the philosophy of using local produce wherever possible, and this can be seen throughout the hotel, from the spa to the kitchen to the works of art on the walls.
Although it’s a spa hotel, guests don’t spend the day walking around in towelling robes and slippers – the unofficial dress code seems more sports luxe, but without the associated pretentiousness. That said, there’s no pressure to be immaculately presented at all times – although dressing for dinner is recommended.
Fellow guests keep themselves to themselves, to the point where it can feel like you have the place to yourself – bliss, in my opinion. Equally, polite and friendly staff were always present but never in your face.
Bed and bath
In keeping with the focus on family and the importance of local resources, Ignasi Forteza, a local and personal friend of the Suau family who own the hotel, spearheaded the hotel’s chic interior design. The 23 airy rooms are modern and fresh with a classic twist, and each has its own unique layout and features based on the original characteristics. Pieces from local artists cover the walls, and some rooms have raw wood beams, floor to ceiling windows, outdoor terraces and sea views.
The bed is large, and as well as the usual pillow menu, here you also get a sumptuous sheet menu to choose from. The bathing facilities are roomy: there’s a whirlpool bath and huge shower, complemented by homemade, orange-scented toiletries.
The hotel is also due to open two newly developed villa suites for families or friends wanting to share this summer. Each has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a private heated pool, private garden, fireplace and living room.
Food and drink
The chief inspiration behind Son Brull’s two eateries, the 3/65 restaurant and more casual UBistro for tapas, is local, seasonal and natural ingredients – and it works superbly. Traditional Mallorcan cuisine is served with a contemporary, gourmet twist, with vibrant salads and succulent seafood on the menu.
Dinner also features some of the hotel’s own-brand products, including wines and an excellent olive oil that is like no other I’ve tasted. Chef Rafel Perello also holds cooking classes to share his kitchen secrets.
Pools, spas and public areas
The spa is the jewel in the crown, going far beyond offering the usual facials and massages; it seeks to reconnect people with nature and the earth for a truly restorative experience. The design is clean and reminiscent of a Japanese dojo, and there’s a couples’ room for those on a romantic break.
There are holistic, head-to-toe experiences inspired by the seasons – visit in spring and you can indulge in a “blooming ritual” to recover energy and vitality with a scrub and body mask, facial and intense, almost yogic, massage. The oils and balsams used are also made on site.
There’s an infinity pool, indoor water circuit pool, jacuzzi, sauna, hammam and a yoga and meditation room offering complimentary daily classes, plus electric and mountain bikes are free to borrow.
Nuts and bolts
Room count: 23 rooms
Freebies: Still and sparkling water and bed sweets with the turndown
In the bathroom: Son Brull’s own-brand toiletries
Wifi: Included
Extra charges: Parking is free, laundry from €3.10 (£2.70)
Minibar prices: Rooms have a small fridge with free still and sparkling water
Disability access: Design throughout is inclusive and there is one room (a superior double) that has been specially fitted for easy access for disabled guests
Pet policy: No pets allowed
Bottom line
Best thing: The feeling of getting back to nature in style
Worst thing: There’s no beach within walking distance
Perfect for: Those in need of relaxation
Not right for: Raucous partygoers
Instagram from: The Ubar, where you can capture the hotel’s ancient olive presses
Room rate: Doubles from £215, B&B
