MALLORCA’S majestic mountains, crystalline waters and sunny Mediterranean climes have made it one of the world’s standout destinations for generations, with nearly 10 million visitors arriving each year. A 1960s boom in low-cost airlines saw package holidaymakers fuel the emergence of a series of coastal resorts on the island that span out from Mallorca’s vibrant capital, Palma, along the coast of Calvia. One of the most infamous is Magaluf, which – for many – has become a byword for debauchery as Europe’s teens descend on the strip during the summer months.
The pool eagle view at ME Mallorca.
However, Magaluf’s low-rent reputation has received somewhat of a polish in recent years with the arrival of several sophisticated spots to the south of the beach strip, helping usher in a new era in the resort’s short history. Celebrating its 10th anniversary last year, the ME Mallorca hotel has flown the flag for this reinvention. Serving up the modern mix of cultural events and cutting-edge cuisine in a contemporary setting design, it’s typical of the offering that has come to embody the ME brand, tailored at a younger, travel-savvy crowd.
ME Mallorca chic suit.
Seconds from Magaluf’s white sands, ME Mallorca is discreetly nestled through a tree-lined entrance. Its sleek lobby is adorned with contemporary artwork – to be admired as a glass of cava is pressed into your hand as you check in to one of its 256 rooms. Minimal in style but high on comfort, these largely sea-facing suites are filled with modern amenities. Equipped with a sizeable walk-in shower, minibars (that include sunhats and lingerie) and Nespresso coffee machines for a morning fix, the main event is the bathtub facing out towards the Isla de Sa Porrassa in the bay – perfect for a contemplative soak.
ME Mallorca Me Pool Eagle View.
Not that lying in the bath will be top of the agenda given ME Mallorca’s lively events schedule. Beyond the sumptuous sofas and coffee table books in the lobby there are two pools on offer, including an adult-only area boasting sought-after sun loungers and Balinese beds from which you can soak up Balearic house as the breeze sweeps through the palms. For those seeking more active pursuits, there’s a 24-hour gym, sauna and morning yoga classes, which take place out on the sun-kissed lawn.
ME Mallorca pool.
The breakfast buffet offers an exhaustive tour through regional and global cuisine, with Mallorcan specialities – including charcuterie, cheeses and pastries – sitting alongside the omelette station, cereal bar and fruit stand. Bar snacks are available throughout the day while in the evening, the Pez Playa restaurant is a stylish alfresco spot overlooking the beach and specialising in seafood. Among the standout dishes are sea bass ceviche, gazpacho and its signature paellas, including an aioli-spiked black rice with grilled squid.
ME Mallorca Pez Playa Mojitos.
Beyond the hotel’s boundaries, the Nikki Beach bar lies directly next door for daytime DJ sets, cocktail sipping and people watching. Further afield, the Tramuntana mountains are just a short drive away (car hire can be arranged through the hotel) or hire bikes and hug the coast to discover Calvia’s more remote beaches and bays. While Magaluf’s lurid nightlife is never too far away, this cooler, chicer corner of Calvia is helping carve the region a new reputation.
by Ben Olsen
The summer season at ME Mallorca runs from April to October 2018. Rates start from €225 (bed & breakfast).
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