St Regis Mardavall, Majorca

_Location: The epitome of Mediterranean chic, the St Regis Mardavall offers cool, calming design in a stunning setting. This sprawling resort, one of three Starwood properties on the island, sits between the craggy Tramuntana Mountains and the Mediterranean, just a fifteen minute drive from the city of Palma.

_{First impressions:} Decor is elegant but not over-designed; think California cool meets rustic riad. The lobby is immediately calming with its columns, urns and white linen curtains.

_{The facts:} Our junior suite was spacious and soothing in shades of cream and burnt ochre, with a large marble bathroom and private terrace.
With 130 rooms, the hotel isn’t small but it never feels busy. With seemingly endless gardens and cosy lounges, it’s easy to feel as though you are the only guests there.
The only down-side? There’s no proper beach, but the three-tiered infinity pool and vast day beds more than compensate. For the more active, guests have access to the Arabella golf courses via a free shuttle service.
Food takes centre stage here: guests can choose from the Michelin-starred Es Fum – one of the best restaurants on the island - or the more informal Aqua bistro.

_Wow: The hotel is home to the island’s only Thalasso spa with a dazzling choice of treatments, and heated indoor/outdoor pool.
A good base for: The glamourous bars, restaurants and designer shops of Puerto Portals are a short walk or drive away. This marina attracts a well-heeled crowd on their luxury yachts and Ferraris, making it a great place for a cocktail and a spot of people watching.

_{How much:} £203 a night