Still struggling to fill that Love Island-shaped hole in your lives, with the rest of the summer still stretching out ahead of you? Trade sweating on the central line to basking in the Balearics with a stay at ME Mallorca; we’re convinced it’s a remedy Dr Alex would prescribe.
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Appointed in the popular South West of the island, ME Mallorca has everything you’d look for when choosing your perfect Mediterranean getaway; cloudless skies, soft golden sands, shimmering waves, never-ending seasonal food, impeccable service and a generous sized pool with that all-important sun lounger service.
Don’t be fooled by the slightly dingy drive to the hotel from the airport; the area historically was very much set up to cater for mass British tourism and ME Mallorca’s immediate surroundings demonstrate shades of this, though heavy investment into the area is underway. Leave those preconceptions at the door, though, as from the moment you arrive at the hotel you’ve stepped into a cocoon of luxury. Reception staff decked out in floaty white linen immediately press a welcome glass of pink fizz into your hand – to help the check-in process go down, of course – and show you to your room, of which there are 256. Most have views of the ocean, even if it’s partial, and all guestrooms are decorated in stylish whites and neutrals with a pop of occasional colour, to allow the sea to take centre stage through the expansive windows.
If your budget can stretch slightly, we’d highly recommend forking out for one of the Personality Sea View or Passion Sea View Suites, which will promise you an incredible base from which to enjoy your stay – for a pretty reasonable price. The considerable 52 square meters of space will afford you floor to ceiling windows and a balcony looking out across the azure waters, a vast bed, living room area, well sized bathroom, and stand-alone bath with a view.
Eat
This, without doubt, will go down in history as one of the finest hotel breakfasts you’ll ever get the chance to enjoy – and that’s quite an ambitious claim to throw into the ring. Real honeycomb for your ten types of bread and toast or to drizzle on your creamy goats cheese? Check. Nespresso and hot chocolate machines? Sure. Iberico ham shaved straight from the leg? Obviously. Eggs any way you like? Mais oui. Fresh, tropical fruit? But of course! Caviar? Why not! Donuts? You bet…you start to get the idea. All this can be enjoyed under the beating sun on the terrace, or underneath a shady parasol or two, which you’ll be led to by even more painfully cool staff in their billowing white robes and kaftans.
Elsewhere, Pez Playa is another great outdoor restaurant from the hotel, situated right on the beach and serving criminally good Paella; the chef is incredibly accommodating too, tailoring one to handle our shellfish allergy without having to go full veggie. The restaurant also runs regular social competitions that encourage you to Instagram your meal in exchange for a free dessert – a perfect excuse to justify yet another glass of cava (you are on holiday, after all).
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We might as well address the elephant in the room here; Calvia, where the hotel is located, is just off Magaluf – a word which fills many with horror. However, we are here to quell your nerves. Millions are being pumped into the area which is going through a luxury rebrand, and Magaluf Strip, whilst geographically not far, is only really a couple of roads in size, and easily avoided. For those looking for some upmarket fun akin to Ibiza – you’re in luck. Right next door in literal touching distance is world renowned Nikki Beach, for those after high end day beds, champagne in white plastic glasses, expensive sushi and chilled out party vibes. For those who want to see, but are less bothered about being seen in the hot place to be, we’d recommend the hotel’s day beds, which quite literally look over Nikki Beach from a pedestal, and are half the price of its competitors (or free, if you’re staying in one of the higher category rooms). These come with fresh fruit and a drink, too – so much better value all round. Guests who don’t want or expect to have to splash out for poolside seats need not fear, there are plenty of comfy free beds dotted around the pool, too.
Situated right on the beach, ME Mallorca is perfectly placed for a paddle, and easily located by local taxis if you fancy a quick jaunt to Palma in under half an hour (highly recommended for its range of stunning architecture, secret gardens, museums and abundance of amazing bars and restaurants) or to go yacht spotting at nearby Port Adriano. We’d also recommend hiring a car if you’re staying for a week and exploring other parts of this utterly enchanting island.
Relax
If lounging on the beach or by the pool are simply too strenuous, book yourself into ME Mallorca’s new spa for a personalised experience by Codage Paris, with serums and massage oils that can be used alone or combined ‘to respond to the needs of your skin and the constant changes of modern life.’
For the ultimate holiday luxury, why not try one of the hotel’s exclusive yacht experiences too, from which you can explore hidden coves, glide over glistening waters and enjoy a chilled bottle of Moët as you watch the picture-perfect sunset. Bliss.
Rooms start from £131 per night: