Gran Melia Victoria

Opened back in 1912 as the Villa Victoria, this luxury-level landmark hotel can unquestionably claim to be one of the oldest and most distinguished on the island. But extensive reconstruction in the mid-'60s (when it also joined the Melia family) has given much of the architecture an inelegant modern look, with an entrance that -- while certainly polished -- feels a little dated. Stepping inside this is quickly forgotten, with a broad and sweeping lobby lounge that immediately oozes upscale panache. While renovations completed in 2017 have added some more informal contemporary touches, such as natural wood flooring and jute rugs, the overriding styling remains very much old-school. There's polished marble with gilt-framed artworks, 18th-century tapestries, and even genuine Baroque statues. Wide, warmly lit hallways are lined with wood paneling and original antique pieces that add to the classical grandeur. A checker-tile patio extends from the lobby and overlooks a sunny, palm-studded pool terrace where wrought-iron loungers and striped fabrics evoke '50s-era glamor. The hotel's city setting paired with its impressive lineup of features make it Palma's top urban resort hotel -- and one enjoyed by a role call of VIPs, from royalty and political stars to celebrities including John Wayne, Marlene Dietrich, and Tom Jones. Expect to see well-heeled older couples from Europe and some families with kids during the summer season. 

The Gran Melia Victoria occupies a prime setting on the buzzy Paseo Maritimo boulevard that runs along Palma's main yacht marina. There are numerous bars and restaurants along this stretch of busy road, as well as the legendary Tito's nightclub right next door (which can inevitably be a source of noise). The hotel's side entrance is a less impressive and more graffiti-filled street of apartment blocks and low-rent businesses. The property is a short bus or cab ride from most major attractions, including Palma's gothic cathedral, which is about a five-minute drive. The hotel is well-positioned for visiting the hilltop Bellver Castle, which is easily walkable, and it's a quick drive from the cruise port and Cala Major beach. Palma de Mallorca Airport is only a 15-minute drive away. 

All updated in 2016, the hotel's 171 guest rooms and suites have retained their original classical English styling, with antique furniture, marble accents, and striped carpets. More modern additions such as fragmented feature mirrors and contemporary-style white desk chairs steer the interiors away from feeling too old-fashioned. Super-comfy beds are also all new (updated in 2015), with nifty bedside panels that control everything from room temperature and lighting to the electric curtains. High ceilings add to a sense of space, and rooms start at a generous 300 square feet (28 square meters). Entry-level rooms lack balconies and overlook the street, though some higher floors offer a glimpse of Bellver Castle. Deluxe rooms all open to balconies with side views of the marina, while Premium units and up offer superb frontal views -- some of the cathedral and around the Bay of Palma. Soundproofing means minimal traffic noise from nearby road reaches the rooms.In-room amenities are suitably upscale, with at least 37-inch flat-screen TVs, Bluetooth speakers, free electronic safes, and well-stocked minibars. Tea- and coffee-making facilities come as standard, with upgraded (RedLevel) rooms adding Nespresso machines (with unlimited capsules). While standard Wi-Fi is free, the connection can be spotty, with a fee for the premium service (included in RedLevel Rooms andSsuites). Marble bathrooms come with shower/tub combos, robes and slippers, professional hairdryers, and toiletries by Clarins. One-bedroom suites also add fabulous bay-view whirlpool tubs and separate showers. 

Unlike most top-level hotels in Palma, the Gran Melia Victoria offers the full range of facilities you'd expect in a resort property. The L-shaped saltwater swimming pool is one of the city's largest, surrounded by cushioned loungers that line a deck with gazebos and a poolside bar that has snacks and a lunch menu. There's a splash pool for kids at one end, and at the other is a small gym and exclusive elevated patio with double daybeds (reservable for a fee or free to RedLevel guests). Guests also have free access to a wellness area with heated indoor pool, Finnish sauna, and massage rooms. While there's no noisy poolside animation, the pool terrace can be prone to traffic noise from Paseo Maritimo. The hotel's dining options also impress, starting with an excellent breakfast that includes a la carte options and chilled Cava, plus live piano music. Breakfast isn't always included, but there are optional bed-and-breakfast and half-board plans (the latter of which adds a set dinner menu). An a la carte menu is also available in the Ikatza restaurant, featuring Basque-inspired grilled dishes and a lovely candlelit alfresco terrace. Food quality is generally top-notch, though certainly on the pricier side, and 24-hour room service is available. The Dry Bar (named after the Martini) offers expertly mixed cocktails on an elegant patio with bay views and regular themed events such as Cuban and Champagne nights. RedLevel guests are offered a range of perks, including the "RedGlove" personalized concierge service and access to an exclusive lounge with free soft drinks during the day and nightly aperitifs. The hotel also has a wide range of meeting and conference facilities available. On-site parking and premium Wi-Fi throughout is only free for RedLevel guests.