M House Hotel

Tucked away down an ancient alleyway populated by pigeons, cascading greenery, and flaking plaster, is the medieval-looking entrance to M House Hotel -- complete with wrought iron grate, stone archway, and wall-mounted torches. Through the gate, guests arrive directly into a lovely traditional courtyard which is very much the heart of this boutique property. With no tall neighboring buildings, lots of natural light makes it a particularly pleasant place in which to relax, surrounded by terra-cotta potted plants and bronze statues. Just off the courtyard is a check-in window, bar, and restaurant seating that extends to a small terrace. The hotel first opened in 2006 and was last renovated in 2016, updating the welcoming and relaxed, smart boutique-style feel. Accommodation is split between two buildings separated by the courtyard. With no elevator in either building, guests have to navigate up to two flights of steps. Staff are on hand to help with luggage, though the situation is not ideal for the mobility impaired. Clientele are mostly couples in town for a short break to explore the city. Warmer months also attract non-guests to the mellow secluded courtyard in the evenings.

The hotel is nestled away down a long (and rather scruffy) alley and the location could hardly be more central. This passageway leads straight from one of central Palma's main pedestrianized shopping lanes -- San Miguel -- lined with various high-street names and independent boutiques. As well as being a short stroll from numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants, the tree-lined La Rambla and main Plaza Mayor are both just a few minutes away on foot. Though it can be tricky to find, guests can drive up to the rear of the hotel (though smaller cars are recommended). The hotel is also just two blocks away from the city's subterranean train and bus stations, as well as the tourist train that connects to Soller and buses to Palma de Mallorca Airport (which takes about 30 minutes to reach). 

The hotel has just 32 rooms which include standard, superior, and several suite options. All rooms were renovated in 2016 and combine fresh modern decor of crisp white woodwork and wood-effect flooring with antique-style furnishings and original etchings. The overall look is pretty and sophisticated. While the majority of rooms are bright and airy, some lower-level rooms can lack natural light. Most rooms have windows (or upgraded rooms French doors with balconets) overlooking the shopping lane or courtyard; a few rooms, however, look out over the dingy side alley. One suite features a spacious terrace, though not much in the way of views.

Standard amenities include 28-inch flat-screen TVs (with limited English-speaking channels), minibars with soft drinks and beer, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Suites add Lavazza coffee machines and separate lounges with extra TVs. Wi-Fi is free of charge throughout and a decent speed. Bedside digital controls for air-conditioning are a nice touch, a choice of pillow menus are available, and robes are available on-request. Finished in slate gray, bathrooms are clean and contemporary. They have either shower/tub combos or shower cubicles (with rainfall and handheld heads), plus wall-mounted hairdryers and chain brand toiletries. Chopard toiletries are provided in suites and for repeat customers.

Facilities at this hotel are limited. A standout feature (and rarity for boutique properties in the city) is a private two-story car park. Fees apply and the space is only suitable for small cars. Breakfast is served in the bright lobby lounge and includes a simple buffet with hot and cold items. The meal is not included in the standard rate. Half-board rates are available and include a set dinner menu, which can also be served a la carte and enjoyed in the courtyard. In the evenings, the space becomes a chilled out bar serving cocktails and Majorcan wines. There's no spa or fitness facilities, but in-room massage can be arranged. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.