Hotel Cort

Despite its relatively recent opening in 2013, Hotel Cort has already established itself as one of Palma's most renowned boutique hotels -- and it's easy to see why. A playful red-and-white facade marks the first of its bold yet tasteful design features, transforming what was once a 19th-century bank building into a distinctive and colorful addition to an already scenic cobbled square. Stripped-down wood paneling and floorboards give the snug reception room an immediately welcoming feel, while a compass-cum-table introduces a maritime motif that pervades the property in various guises. 

Much of the ground floor is taken up with a bistro-style restaurant and bar -- with attractive geometric Moorish tiling, numerous bottle displays, and brown leather booths -- which spills out into a cobbled alfresco terrace, often buzzing with a lively mix of guests and locals. Venturing inwards, the occasionally labyrinthine corridors are hushed and immaculate, decorated with Majorcan ikat patterned linen that also make regular appearances throughout its 16 rooms and suites. The result is an atmosphere that feels simultaneously homey and sophisticated, as well as both traditional and on-trend, all tied up with a subtle island theme and quality finish. 

The Hotel Cort is set on a picturesque cobblestone square of the same name in the very center of Palma's Old Town and opposite a landmark centuries-old olive tree and striking Baroque-era town hall. Its enviable location puts the hotel just around the corner from the narrow lanes lined with upmarket boutiques and cafes, and it's a five-minute walk from the majestic Gothic cathedral. Also a few minutes' walk away is the main square, and five minutes away is the leafy boulevard and luxury outlets of Passeig del Born. While taxis can access the area, local traffic is very restricted and nearby parking can be limited. The start of Palma's marina is 10 minutes away on foot, while the city's long sandy beach is 15 minutes. Taxis to Palma de Mallorca Airport typically take around 15 minutes.

The hotel has eight suites, six junior suites, and two doubles, totaling 16 spacious guest rooms in all. While no two are identical, they all follow similar styling that combines exposed timber flooring, painted wood fixtures, and traditional patterned fabrics. Lounge areas with comfy sofas and shelves filled with books and vases give a homey feel. Numerous gilt-framed maps introduce the subtle island theme. Some rooms include decorative fireplaces for an extra cozy feel. The duplex Island Suite features a superb panoramic terrace with whirlpool tub, and two other rooms open to terraces big enough for at least a couple loungers (though there are only interior views). The three Plaça Suites overlook the square and ancient olive tree, some from Juliet balconies. 

Amenities include smart TVs (32-, 40-, or 46-inch), two minibars (one with wine and water, the other beer and soft drinks), and touchscreen telephones; iPads and coffee- and tea-making facilities are on request. Large, comfy beds are backed by leather headboards with bedside light and heating control panels, and topped with plentiful pillows and quality sheets. Light sleepers might be disturbed by the nearby town hall's bell (chiming every quarter-hour with dongs on the hour). Bathrooms are finished in hand-painted tiles, with heated flooring (during winter), Egyptian cotton towels, and Molton Brown products as standard; some also feature double showers and separate tubs. Wi-Fi is free and fast throughout.

An impressive a la carte breakfast is included in the rate, where guests can pick anything on the menu from the likes of cooked-to-order eggs, smoked salmon, and freshly squeezed orange juice. The restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner, serving a good range of simple dishes from often locally sourced produce. While fairly expensive, food quality is excellent. Part of the restaurant includes a "Raw Bar" serving chilled oysters, Peruvian ceviche, and tuna tartar, as well as a bar serving dozens of wines, cocktails, and spirits. There are booths and a cozy secluded dining area, and hotel's alfresco terrace is one of central Palma's largest, a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. A mezzanine-level bar with an old-school gentleman's club atmosphere is available for private events. A sunny rooftop terrace with loungers where guests can order up drinks, plus a very small stainless steel plunge pool. There are no spa or fitness facilities on-site.