Can Simoneta - Our Hotel of the Year 2007

Reviewed by Laura Dibben


BALCONY OVER THE THE MEDITERRANEAN.......

Mallorca´s northeast coastline, with its jagged cliffs, picturesque bays and unspoilt beaches, is a sight to behold – especially from the unparalleled location of Can Simoneta. A long drive lined with olive trees leads you to the ¨pièce de résistance¨ of this impressive 575 hectare estate. The scent of sea air and the stunning countryside toy with your senses as you approach the Hotel where peace and tranquility abound. Glass doors slide open, welcoming you into this beautifully restored, early 19th Century finca.

This Hotel is all about the Sea. The original house was built in the late 1800s for a monk, who came seeking the natural healing of saltwater baths in a natural pool in the secluded rocky cove below. A curved staircase, carved into the cliff, provided – and still provides – direct private access to this pool. There is now even a phone at the bottom of the staircase if you would like to have a drink sent down to you...the monk presumably had to take his own!!! In later years the second house was built for the farmers who worked the land. This now houses the reception, a cosy salon anda gastronomic restaurant. Next to the roaring fire in the salon is the best seat in the house for a quiet drink in the winter.

Lawned gardens lead from the main house to the swimming pool where pine trees drift gently in the sea breeze. A covered terrace provides a shaded seating area with comfortable sofas – an ideal place for relaxing with a good book in the summer months or simply taking in the astounding Mediterranean views.

The Hotel´s 18 luxurious bedrooms are shared between both buildings; 12 in the main building and 6 in the original house, shaded by tall pine trees, just 14 metres from the sea. Comprised of 12 doubles and 5 Suites, all offer either Mediterranean or country views. The minimalist, modern decor is stylish with its colour scheme of whites and beiges mixed with modern furnishings and crisp linen. Two Suites and 2 Doubles feature terraces – an added luxury for taking in your surroundings. The newest addition in 2008, is the Grand Suite Neptuno, a 2-storey "casita" which is ideal for families and stands completely on its own in the garden; its private terrace with small swimming pool are wonderful added features!! All rooms and suites are equipped with heating and air-conditioning, telephone, satellite TV, internet access, mini-bar, safe, bathrobes and hair dryer. The sparkling clean bathrooms are immaculate. One of the bedrooms and its bathroom are specially adapted for wheelchair access and for those with mobility problems.

Whether at breakfast, lunch or dinner, enjoy breathtaking views over the bay of Canyamel. The menu is ¨à la carte¨, and Mediterranean ¨nouvelle¨ cuisine is on offer, using the freshest of ingredients from the finca´s own garden. Drinks and snacks are served throughout the day both by the poolside and on the terrace – the latter also a superb, romantic setting for dining in the summer months.

Can Simoneta´s location is ideal for exploring the exquisite area or for taking advantage of a multitude of nearby activities. Golfers you will be pleased to know there are 4 courses within an 8km radius of the Hotel. Water sport enthusiasts you will be spoilt for choice in this area. Tennis can be arranged at the nearby tennis club. There are walking and mountain-bike routes on the property, and the Hotel receptionists will gladly suggest other nearby routes if you wish to explore farther afield. The sandy beach at Canyamel is less than 1km away – a lovely walk along the cliff edge from the Hotel. If laid-back is more your style, why not treat yourself to a romantic horse ride at sunset followed by a relaxing massage, or a soak in the gurgling Jacuzzi perched at the cliff edge.

An ideal hotel if you are looking for a relaxing holiday with elegant accommodation in a sublime, seaside setting and a menagerie of activities at your fingertips.