Avenida Joan Miro 269, Cala Major, Spain | (888) 551-4925
Stunning location directly overlooking the water
A striking pool and several terraces feature sweeping views of the ocean
Rooms have comfortable beds and suites have grand decor
Several delicious dining options on-site
Private garage offers valet service
Meeting rooms are equipped to accommodate up to 300 guests
Free Wi-Fi
Fee to use the sauna and pool in the spa
A bit of a walk down to the beach
Some rooms lack lovely views
The Hotel Nixe Palace is seen as one of the gems of the Mallorcan hospitality scene to both locals and tourists, and it generally lives up to its reputation. This 118-room property has luxurious rooms with comfortable beds and suites with palatial decor, and some have large terraces overlooking the ocean. Considering the hotel's size and class, the pool area could be larger, but it does have lovely views. Designed to resemble the stern of a boat, the on-site A Popa restaurant is a delightful place for dinner, though there are few other upscale dining options in the hotel's immediate surroundings as well. Central Palma is under a 15-minute taxi ride away, as are golf greens and cultural landmarks like the much lauded Miró Contemporary Art Museum. While the property's spa is extensive, use of the facilities requires an additional fee. For an equally upscale experience in a property where spa access is free and one of the focal points of the service, the Hotel Hospes Maricel is another stellar option.
Scene
Venerable location, refined atmosphere, and spectacular sunsets over the sea
The Hotel Nixe Palace is straight out of a postcard. Everything about it exudes elegance and glamour, from its privileged and elevated setting overlooking the ocean, to its glittering pool and the striking white balustrade that surrounds it. The lobby -- with its large marble pillars, tastefully upholstered furniture, piano, and rich tapestries -- sets the stage for a palatial experience. Expect refined guests seeking privacy and relaxation, with days filled with lots of lounging and reading by the pool. Airy terraces set the stage fine dining accompanied by views of brilliant sunsets over the water come evening. There are 50 stairs between the hotel and the beach, but the reward for making the trip down is a large expanse of sand surrounded by sapphire and aquamarine.
Location
Overlooking the beautiful Cala Major, with easy access to central Palma
While the Nixe Palace has a privileged location overlooking Cala Major, the area surrounding it isn't as exclusive as the hotel itself. It's generally a tourist-friendly area full of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes, though there are pockets of it that can feel a bit shabby. For a more upscale selection of dining and entertainment options, it's worth making a trip into central Palma, which is easily reached by public bus in under 20 minutes. The Miró Contemporary Art Museum is just over a 10-minute drive away in the direction of Palma. A few good golfing options, including Golf Santa Ponsa, can be reached in under 20 minutes by taxi.
Rooms
Show-stopping suites and sea view rooms are definitely worth the upgrade.
The Royal Suite at the Hotel Nixe Palace is a showstopper. The bed area is excessive, but it works -- think white and gold, lots of tassels, and elaborate light fixtures. The views are incredible, and the terrace is spacious enough for lounging or enjoying breakfast while looking out over the water. Other more standard rooms at the Nixe Palace are less palatial, with more minimalist, modern decor along the lines of what one might expect in an upscale business hotel. Sea rooms have a genuine advantage over the others and are worth the splurge, as front-side rooms overlook a disappointing and busy street.
Features
Lovely pools, fanciful fine dining options, and unbeatable views
While there are many things to gush about at the Nixe Palace, the outdoor pool rises to the top of the list. Though it's small for one at a hotel of this size, the pool is separated from the ocean by a stunning white balustrade punctuated by planters filled with red flowers. For a fee, the hotel's spa offers an untraditionally shaped, indoor heated pool lined with glass windows overlooking a garden with palm trees; aromatherapy showers; and a Turkish bath. The on-site A Popa restaurant has a playful decorative theme that recreates the stern of a boat. If the weather permits -- and in Mallorca, it usually does -- guests should definitely dine outdoors: the terrace is practically in the ocean, and the views of rich sapphire waters are very hard to beat.