A weekend in Soller
Hotel Esplendido
I was looking for a relaxing weekend away from Dublin in a sunny destination during the springtime and found an inexpensive flight to Palma. Wanting to get away from the more crowded tourist areas of Majorca, I did some research and found a lush spot on the northwest coast in a mountainous region called Soller. One hotel, by the name of Hotel Esplendido, located in an idyllic location in the centre of the bay of Puerto Soller, was offering a 15% percent discount as it was off season. So I booked a single garden room with breakfast included and hoped for the best.
Upon arrival, I was more than pleasantly surprised as I walked into a stunning newly renovated 50s style hotel overlooking the sea. I was greeted by friendly hotel staff, who informed me I had been upgraded to a sea view room. Not only did I have a view of the sea, I had my own private terrace, in a refreshing retro-style room with flatscreen tv and rain shower - as well as designer bath products.
Anxious to explore more of the hotel, and later discovering that I was one of the few guests staying there (as they had just opened for the season), I wandered up to the roof terrace, passing the library (with record player and massive record collection) and multi-level lounge area on the way....just in time to watch the sunset over the bay from the the infinity pool! Absolutely breathtaking.
Excited to go to bed in order to wake up and discover what else this hotel had to offer, I went to sleep with the sound of the waves crashing below.
After enjoying the sunrise from my private sea view terrace the next morning, I headed down to breakfast - which was a feast for the eyes! They were offering everything from fresh fruit to yogurt, granola and nuts, fresh bread, meats and cheese, and the most to-die-for muffins I have ever had. They were also offering a selection of hot food as well, but i was too full from all the muffins!
After I had worked up enough energy, I decided to take advantage of the lack of morning sun (the hotel is shaded over until about noon), I wandered into the town of Soller, by way of a scenic ride on a 1900s wooden electric train. The town was very picturesque, set in a valley beneath the mountains - in a region famous for its oranges and olives. The markets were on on the Saturday, and were offering everything from handmade crafts and jewellery to linen clothing to gourmet food. There was also a unique contemporary gallery in town showcasing Majorcan works of art.
After a satisfying stroll through town, I decided to make my back to the hotel to enjoy the 25 plus degree weather and lounge by the pool. Once I had had enough sun, and after a nice poolside lunch consisting of a delicious greek salad and calamari, I took a break to use the hotel's state-of-the-art spa and fitness facilities - including a turkish team room, sauna, hot pools, waterbeds (!), gym and spa services. I decided to treat myself to a nice relaxing massage, followed by a steam and relaxing on the heated tile loungers overlooking the sea....the most perfect way to spend an afternoon!
Later on in the evening, I made my way into Puerto Soller along the boardwalk to one of the many tapa/fish restaurants overlooking the sea. There was no seat available at one of the restaurants and so I was gestured to take a seat at the bar and was treated to a complimentary glass of prosecco. Dinner was worth the wait as I had a lovely meal consisting of a selection of southeast asian tapas followed by (another) complimentary desert. On my way home, I passed by quite a few open air bars/restaurants, which would have been fun if I was with a group of friends, but as I was having a relaxing holiday. So, I eagerly made my way back to the hotel, which is exactly where I stayed until the last minute of my departure the next day.
Stay. Here.
