The grandeur of Zafiro Palace Andratx washes over you as soon as you enter the vast five-star resort, with a backdrop of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains surrounded by glittering sea; a combination unique to the area that makes for some incredible sunset viewing.
The hotel is nothing short of spectacular and its various pool areas and dining options really make the most of those stunning vistas, whether you’re looking out to the coast, or into the dense woodland that sits below the mountain tops.
But what makes this hotel special – views aside – is its attention to detail when it comes to an all-inclusive offering. Gone is the notion that a package of this kind means a mediocre buffet dinner with some questionable family entertainment and in its place are chic dining options in an assortment of exciting restaurants.
Sure, buffet fans can get their fill at breakfast with a vast array of hot and cold options. But when it comes to the evening meals… there’s sushi, there’s steak, there’s innovative Italian cuisine. Not to mention little touches, like a free minibar that’s restocked daily and delicious treats (think chocolate-covered strawberries and colourful macarons) left before bedtime. We came, we saw, and we feasted like never before.
While Zafiro Palace Andratx is one of 12 Zafiro hotels in Mallorca and Menorca in the Balearics, it’s (currently) the only one offering All Inclusive Redefined package.
In terms of the location, one of the benefits of staying at Zafiro Palace is how close you are to both the beautiful coastline and also incredible mountain trails if you’re feeling adventurous.
The hotel sits on the edge of the Camp de Mar resort next to the Andratx golf course. Should you want to leave the resort (though I’d stress there’s plenty here to keep you occupied!) Andratx Port, with its numerous restaurants, bars and shops, is four miles away.
So let’s talk restaurants. There are four à la carte restaurants to choose from Caliu Steakhouse, Tastes & Sushi, La Veranda and Mare Nostrum – the hotel’s most gourmet offering. There is also a popular breakfast and lunchtime buffet restaurant, The Market, available to guests with a vast assortment of international and local dishes, with cooking stations for fresh options.
An extensive cocktail menu is available both poolside and at various bars across the resort – with alcoholic and non-alcoholic creations that go above and beyond the typical holiday Sex on the Beach or Tequila Sunrise (though I’m not knocking the classics). For me, it was a smoky margarita that became my sundowner of choice.
A culinary highlight was Mare Nostrum, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant with a creative menu. The dishes at Mare Nostrum were creative and unusual; think citrus-infused lobster with black rice or a chocolate cigar filled with mojito-flavoured cream.
Visually it was a delight, enhanced by a welcome glass of cava to start the experience. The views from the restaurant were also some of my favourites, looking out into the surrounding woodland.
Tastes & Sushi also offered an extensive selection of Asian fusion dishes, with mouthwatering sushi platters and yet more tasty cocktails.
The decor is miles away from the sterility many of us have come to associate with all-inclusive dining rooms, with linen-covered tables and elegant table settings, including pretty coloured glassware that adds some flare.
Rooms are chic and minimal, with local artwork adding warmth and character. All rooms include a super comfy king-sized bed, as well as luxurious extras such as a Nespresso coffee machine and clothes steamer, as well as cosy bathrobes and slippers.
My room had the added benefit of a small private pool with mountain views, and a hot tub on the terrace that offered a blissful end to the day.
There’s also a desk in each room in the property, which while that may not sound too exciting for some, for digital nomads like me who are always taking half an hour to write up some copy, having a space that’s set up for this is really beneficial. Oh, and the complimentary 24-hour room service also helps if a snack attack happens in the process.
There’s plenty to explore outside of the hotel, too, with surrounding Palma and Sóller within easy reach. I’d highly recommend taking the old-fashioned train from Palma to Sóller for an unforgettable slow travel experience. There’s also the option of zipping around on a scooter, which can be arranged by the hotel.
The region is also famous for its wine, with tasting experiences on offer. We visited the Son Juliana vineyard and sampled some delicious local wines, as well as an unusual light red from Montenegro that I’m still thinking about. There’s also a fabulous shop where you can stock up on souvenirs to enjoy after your trip.
And after a day of exploring, nothing quite beats indulging in one of The Gem Spa’s many treatments by Germaine de Capuccini. I opted for a decongesting facial to tackle the damage caused by the London pollution I deal with daily and left feeling relaxed and glowing – just in time for another sundowner to soak up some last views.
Nightly rates at Zafiro Palace Andratx start from £440 per room on an All-Inclusive Redefined® basis. B&B and half and board options are also available.
Find out more and book at zafirohotels.com
Comments are closed.