Sant Francesc Hotel Singular — Hotel in Palma

The moment I discovered this hotel beside the breathtaking Basilica de Sant Francesc, I knew I had to stay there. Although my two-night stay was far too short, it was easily one of the most exquisite hospitality experiences I've ever had.

The hotel boasts a central, but serene location in the heart of Old Palma, minutes from the city's best shops, restaurants and attractions. Its enviable position on the beautiful church square means it gets more light than many of the other hotels nestled in the old town's narrow streets , which was an important consideration for me as a sun seeker visiting from London.

Housed in an elegantly restored, 19th-century mansion, the hotel is built around a central courtyard where you can read and sip coffee in the shade of olive trees. Its sleek, stunning design blends an airy, contemporary aesthetic with a reverence for tradition. By day, the lobby is bathed in gorgeous Mediterranean light. By night, the stylish bar beckons with an inviting glow, as well as a wonderful selection of local wines. And any time of day — especially at sunset — the rooftop terrace offers jaw-dropping, spire-spiked views all over Palma.

The rooms are stylish, spacious and comfortable. I stayed in a "basic" room on the ground floor at the back of a hotel, so didn't have much of a view, but loved the comfortable, four-poster bed, Nespresso coffee maker and luxurious bathroom. The fig-tree scented toiletries were so lovely and evocative of the Mediterranean that I paid to check my suitcase — just so I could bring them all home!

Having heard great things about the restaurant, Quadrat, from locals and tourists alike, I decided to have lunch there just before leaving and thoroughly enjoyed the three-course menu — especially the arroz negro. But what really elevated my whole stay to another level was the service and hospitality I experienced from the moment I first peered into the hotel to when I (very sadly!) left for the airport. Equal parts discreet, professional, warm and accommodating, the staff and management made me feel completely at home — a rarity at a luxury hotel.

Even during low season, the Sant Francesc is a splurge, but well worth every penny. Muchas, muchas gracias to the wonderful staff for this beautiful, memorable and...

I did not stay at the hotel but my mother, sister, and I had dinner at their rooftop terrace.

If you want to eat here, you need to BOOK a table in advance!

As a vegetarian, I usually do not have much choice when it comes to sushi restaurants. Usually I do with a selection of makis (cucumber, avocado, radish, etc), so I wasn't expecting much when my sister insisted we book a table at this restaurant.

I had the usual edamame and vegi gyoza, which were both fine. But then! Then I had their vegi "sushi" and "sashimi" platters! I was stunned! The "sashimi" (which was called something else, I hope you'll forgive me for haven forgotten what it was called), was made with watermelon and had the consistency of raw sliced fish, but tasted... OH SO GOOD! It was simply stunning!

To top it all off, they do beautiful cocktails, served as cocktails should, with a view... and what a view! As there is a pool on the terrace next to where you eat, I wouldn't blame you for thinking at was a bit strange - but far from it. It adds to the atmosphere and to the view.

One of the best food/cocktail-related experienced I have...

Wow, this is one of the nicest hotels I have stayed in. Situated right in the middle of the old town, this former mansion is a real gem. You are entranced from the moment you open the door. I was hit with a luscious scent that seemed to follow me around the whole hotel. Service was impeccable, we were greeted immediately and offered complimentary cava whilst our room was arranged. The front of house staff offered to help us with information, guides, restaurant reservations etc. The rooms weren't ready at the time we arrived so we went up to the rooftop pool for a bit of a chill out. It's stunning up there! Lovely tunes playing, 12 sun beds and lounges, tables etc to enjoy and stunning views!

The rooms are beautiful. You can see a huge amount of thought has gone into the design of the rooms, and the hotels in general. The hotel is boutique with a capital 'B'. I couldn't fault a single thing.

If I am ever in Palma again this is the place I will be staying. Thanks for a great final two days of an excellent trip...