A Coral Sanctuary: Celebrating 35 at Son Net
There’s a rare magic when a hotel gets it just right—and I’m not just referring to perfect water pressure. When grand gestures of hospitality are met with genuine generosity, the experience feels more like visiting a distant aunt’s estate rather than staying at a hotel. Grand Hotel Son Net, a 17th-century Mallorcan manor in the Tramuntana mountains and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invited me to stay for my 35th birthday—and what a treat it was.
Traditionally, the 35th year is celebrated with an element of coral, symbolizing durability and beauty. This stunning retreat, tucked away near the hillside town of Puigpunyent, perfectly embodies those qualities. Its original facade, with its warm coral hue, instantly reminded me of my hometown in Morocco, where rich reds fill the streets.
Something truly made me feel at home at Son Net. Ironically, it’s not that they’re trying to make you feel at home—but rather, it’s the absence of forced familiarity that makes it so special. Before arrival, a set of "house rules" is emailed to you, ensuring that you’re acquainted with the hotel’s etiquette and seamlessly integrated into the decor. These guidelines are gently reiterated at check-in, in case you're not someone who follows a "zero inbox policy" and missed the memo.
Nonetheless, it still feels like home—or at least a home [mansion], rather than just a hotel. After the initial shock and awe at the astonishing beauty of its interiors, I quickly settled in as a guest of the house, not a hotel customer. Perhaps it’s the centuries-old bronze keys, dating from 1672, that they kindly remind you not to lose. Or the 400-year old doors that they open. Or maybe it’s the unpretentious warmth and effortless ease of the staff, who, despite being surrounded by masterpieces of ancient art, never feel out of place. And then there’s the understated elegance: the way the grandeur of an award-winning hotel effortlessly blends with the grounding presence of the mountains and history-steeped rooms.
We were given the key to Room 21, the Grand Suite Maria de Napoles. Apparently, this is one of the suites with the greatest architectural representation of the palace and I can see why: the light blue traditional beams that lined the living room ceiling; the arches framing the windows; the stone columns that held up the space between the dressing room and the bedroom. The Juliette balcony was be-fitting the dreamlike stay, as all Juliette balconies tend to evoke, with complementing views of the mountains and vines hugging the walls outside.
In my palace-friendly attire, we explored the estate at the perfect time of day. The golden hour bathed the inner courtyard in a warm glow, highlighting the rich tones of the interiors. It’s clear that every corner of the hotel has been thoughtfully designed to accentuate the mansion’s original features—rustic beams, stone floors, and antique fireplaces—each framed by beautiful, handpicked pieces.
We stepped into the main living room where you can see interior designer Lorenzo Castillo poured his heart into the space. A masterpiece in and of itself, this living room is the result of a two-year quest across Europe by Lorenzo himself to complete the space with the richest greens, warmest reds, and frills that evoke an eclectic, 1930’s Tangier charm.
Through a large arched door, you step into the garden, where a soft fountain welcomes you, and a sundial clock reminds you that the spa is open for only two more hours. You descend the 400-year-old steps to the opulent yet hidden spa. The red hallway is a promising sign, signaling that the interiors here are just as bold. The indoor pool, far from being shy, proudly flaunts a stunning blend of red and green that captivates the eye.
The original 17th-century interior courtyard seems to hold the secrets of the families who once lived here before it became a hotel. The spring-fed well, still brimming with water, carries with it the stories of the mountains. The small family chapel has witnessed both tears of joy and sorrow, adding a layer of emotion to the estate's rich history.
At night, the hallways of Son Net sing softer songs. They are dimly lit and inviting, with their wallpaper covered faces. A supermoon, radiant and unhurried, casts its silver gaze over the estate, while we dive into the embrace of an ultra-soft king bed. Wrapped in a cloud of plush pillows, we drift into slumber, lulled by the soothing murmur of water flowing beneath us.
As I sipped my final coffee on the terrace while the bell tolled in town, the morning sun illuminated the coral-hued facade, a timeless reminder that old is beautiful—a fitting reflection for this milestone year. Gran Hotel Son Net is more than a retreat; it’s a place where history, design, and genuine hospitality intertwine, creating a sanctuary that feels both storied and soulful. With every detail thoughtfully curated and every moment steeped in quiet elegance, this 17th-century manor captures the rare magic of a home that isn’t yours but feels like it could be in a parallel universe.
Interested in Mallorca?
Looking to experience this Mediterranean island? Send in a trip request and I’ll be happy to help you plan the perfect trip. As a Mallorca resident, my insight is unmatched and your experience will be true to this island’s beauty, culture and history.
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