Portixol Hotel and Restaurant

The lobby of the Portixol Hotel and Restaurant is a sunlit space with crisp white walls, bright geometric artwork, and comfortable blue couches accented by colorful pillows. Details such as the large mosaic pillars shaped like conch seashells, a giant swordfish hanging on the wall, and portholes on doors lend the interiors a nautical vibe. Hallways lined with dark wooden panels that frame glass windows create the effect of boat cabins and further accentuate the marine flair -- fitting for a property that overlooks the port. The spacious and sunlit, gray-hued lounge is full of chic patterned armchairs and include a large record collection stored in wooden cubbyholes with a record player on hand for some musical enjoyment. The decor gravitates towards Scandinavian simplicity, which is not surprising as the property is Swedish-owned, but with a relaxed, modern Mediterranean flair. The laid-back atmosphere attracts many northern European travelers in search of a sunny escape.

Portixol Hotel and Restaurant is located in the Portixol harbor, a former fishing village just outside of central Palma known for its Mediterranean marine charm. The sapphire blue waters of the port are spotted with white boats, and there is a rocky pier popular with recreational fishermen as well as plenty of space to bike and stroll along the shore. There are several seafood restaurants in the immediate area, but not many entertainment, shopping, or cultural options. The historic center of Palma is an eight-minute drive or 20-minute bus ride away. (The bus stop is a four-minute walk from the hotel). The walk into town is also a pleasant one that runs along the water, but plan to spend upwards of 35 minutes on foot to get there. The hotel also has free bikes available for rent. The Palma airport is a seven-minute drive away.

Rooms at the Portixol Hotel range in size from small single rooms, to large rooms with private balconies, to spacious duplex suites, amongst other options. Rooms blend Scandinavian simplicity with Mediterranean personality and marine flair that is slightly reminiscent of stylish rooms on a luxe cruise ship. Strategically hung mirrors add dimension in smaller rooms. All have luxurious DUX beds, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, iPod docks, Nespresso coffee machines, and free Wi-Fi. Many rooms have lovely sea, harbor, or mountain views and private terraces or balconies, though the small single rooms lack views. Bathrooms vary in terms of layout and style, but all have fluffy towels, Korres toiletries, and either walk-in showers or soaking tubs.

The Portixol Hotel and Restaurant sits amid a blissfully blue landscape surrounded by a stunning bay and port punctuated by the soaring masts of sailboats. The interiors of the hotel take a cue from these watery surroundings, with seaside, nautical vibes permeating the property, extending from the lovely outdoor pool, to the hip and stylish restaurant that flanks it. The decor is a mix of nautical and urban hip, with funky copper lanterns, playful sculptures of crustaceans, and large wood-framed windows that overlook the pool. The bar extends out onto an outdoor terrace that borders the parking lot, yet maintains its style and charm. The lovely full-service spa offers a wide range of treatments, as well as a sauna and sun deck with an outdoor shower. The gym is tiny and equipped with only two machines and weights. Though laid-back and geared for relaxation, the property also has well-equipped meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi throughout, and a computer available for use in the lobby.