Hotel Can Simoneta

Set at the end of a long rural lane lined with ancient olive trees is the unassuming entrance to the rather special Hotel Can Simoneta. When it opened in 2005, the upscale property was composed of just two buildings: an old stone farmhouse and a country retreat home dating back to the early 19th century. Both buildings have been restored using the same stones found on the rocks from the cliff that one building almost teeters off the edge of. The Beach House was added as the third building, located right on the beach, and a short walk -- or golf cart ride -- from the main buildings. Minimalist cream-on-white styling provides an airy and immaculate backdrop for numerous modern artworks, plus original rustic touches that include hexagonal terra-cotta tile floors and log beam rafters. The hotel's 12 acres of gardens are composed of a wonderfully peaceful expanse of lawns dotted with quirky statues, dappled footpaths, and clusters of trees whose pine scent is carried on the sea breeze. Woven white hammocks provide ample places to relax. The clifftop setting provides not only some of the most picturesque panoramas on the island, but also some genuinely magical sunrises. An adult-only policy adds to the feeling of serenity. 

The Hotel Can Simoneta provides one of the most enviable settings of any on Majorca. Picture secluded gardens skirting a long cliff overlooking the far eastern coast of the island. While the small and relatively undeveloped resort of Canyamel is just about within walking distance, there's nothing else in the immediate surrounds but fragrant meadows, pine forests, and an expanse of sea and sky. Steep steps cut into the cliff spiral down to a natural rock pool, an excellent snorkeling spot, and a path that leads to Canyamel Beach. There are four golf courses within a 10-minute drive, plus the historical towns of Artá and Capdepera are around the same distance. The capital city of Palma and its Palma de Mallorca Airport are up to an hour-and-a-half drive. 

The hotel has 26 rooms and suites total. Eighteen rooms are distributed between the two main buildings and the remainder are located in the Beach House. While no two rooms are identical, the decor tends towards light, airy tones with wispy white drapery, terra-cotta tile flooring, and simple modern furnishings. Beach House rooms lean more towards the contemporary. Most rooms are well-maintained. However, they don't all feel particularly luxurious and some are even a little tired-looking in places. Two of the suites and two of the doubles have terraces with loungers and sea views, while most rooms have at least partial sea views. Standard amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs (with movie and music channels), minibars stocked with spirits and Champagne, and free Wi-Fi (which extends through much of the complex). Bathrooms are generally on the small side and the Standard Room has a shower/tub combination with a partial glass wall. Bathrooms are finished in marble and feature quality toiletries, plus fluffy towels and robes. There's also a luxury suite with private hot tub. For truly special occasions, the Gran Neptuno Suite is a small cottage with its own pool and garden.

Breakfast is certainly a highlight. It's served buffet style and provides some a la carte items, all included in the rate. The meal can be enjoyed on the sea-view alfresco terrace or indoors. The restaurant also serves lunch and dinner, with a menu characterized as Mediterranean-with-a-twist accompanied by a decent wine list. Room service is available. A romantic candlelit clifftop meal for two can also be organized in advance. While some guests rave about the food, others have been less than impressed.There are two outdoor swimming pools. One is fairly small, with an infinity edge overlooking the sea. The other is long enough to swim laps. Both pools are lined with daybeds and cushioned loungers. Guests also have private access to a secluded cove where there's a bathing pool cut out of the rock, and a secluded whirlpool offers privacy. There's also a spa offering massage and high-end beauty treatments, plus a steam room and sauna. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.