Sant Francesc - New Luxury Hotel Opening Spring 2015 in Palma de Mallorca

A former manor house that belonged to a noble Mallorquin family, the building survived 135 years of unchanged usage. The project has been envisioned by the Soldevila Ferrer family, who inherit a 90-year history and passion for hospitality in their DNA, being part of the owning and founding family of the Hotel Majestic in Barcelona (1918). Looking to create a new chapter in the form of small luxury, they have found the perfect location and building with an extraordinary heritage. The young Andrés Soldevila Ferrer will steer the family’s project into the future, but make no mistake that it is a family affair as Nuria Ferrer Klein, whose elegant eye as a former interior designer, has added her distinct mark to the hotel. Further, the senior Andrés Soldevila Casals continues to oversee the family’s legacy ensuring that a 5-star service and product will be delivered by the next generation of hoteliers.

Behind the beautiful façade of hotel Sant Francesc lies a treasure trove of terraces, courtyards and a lush garden. Upon entry, step through the portal into the true heart of the house – the Patio Mallorquin and Lobby Bar. The courtyard was originally used to saddle-up the horses as evidenced in the perfectly restored hitching posts. Today it is a soaring regal space serving a creative selection of tapas available day and night. Olive trees and a bubbling fountain create the perfect setting for the elegant bar which offers an extensive list of cocktails including classics and handcrafted creations. With indoor or al fresco seating, you’ll find a range of cavas, champagnes, and wines, including those from small production vineyards that can only be sipped on the island.

The 70 seat smart-casual restaurant is located in the former stables of the manor house and boasts indoor or garden dining. It will be overseen by Chef Paco Pérez whose cooking is based on tradition and respect for local and quality products. Chef Pérez grew up in Llançà, a small fishing village in Girona, where he soaked up the typical elements of the Tramontana (a mythical north wind), its nature, the sailor traditions, and excellent culinary taste. He will bring his imaginative and seasonal cooking to Palma de Mallorca, relying on the culinary model that has launched him to success with his restaurant - Miramar (Two Michelin Stars).

For a panoramic view of the city, unlike any other in Palma, the Rooftop Terrace offers a bird’s-eye view of the city and overlooks the Church of Sant Francesc, as well as the Cathedral and other architectural treasures within the city. During the daytime, the sundeck features a pool with a view and lounge to enjoy refreshments but as the sun sets, a transformation takes place converting the rooftop into a starlit patio.

The restoration and refurbishment of the manor house, overseen by Architect Tolo Cursach of International Hospitality Projects (IHP), has been taken with great respect to protect the design that dates back to 1880. The 42 rooms and suites are created with a responsible contemporary design that takes full advantage of the accommodations in an unpretentious and elegant manner. The interiors have been overseen by the Architect and Interior Designer Maria Jose Cabré of MJC Arquitectura. She has created a singular space and design in each room and suite with custom furniture, luxurious fabrics, and select antiques. Garden landscaping throughout the patios, terraces and rooftop poolbar, were created by landscape architect Ana Esteve of AE LAND 1988 Studio. A particular highlight of the hotel will be an extensive contemporary art collection curated by Nuria Ferrer Klein, in which some of the drawings and photography have been commissioned for the project.

The family has chosen Ilka Karl as General Manager who has now come literally full circle in her career. Ilka began her studies in hospitality in Palma at the “Escuela Universitaria de Turismo” located just two blocks from the hotel. She brings not only 20 years of luxury experience with her to the position, but a natural elegance that suits the tradition of a warm welcome, professional service and passion for the business and project.

Guest amenities are sourced from Heeley, the English perfumer and designer whose products are made in France from rare ingredients of the finest quality. These unique contemporary scents – of which we have chosen Figuier – is reminiscent of sitting under the shade of a fig tree in the Mediterranean sun. To complete the experience, a wellbeing sanctuary will provide singular treatments designed for total relaxation of mind and body.

Location / Mallorca

Within the walls of the old city, the hotel sits on a privileged location on the square where the Basilica, Convent and XIV century elegant Cloister of Sant Francesc* are jewels to be discovered. Built with golden limestone quarried from the island, the city transforms from morning to night bathed in a light that seems to come from within the stone itself. The island’s mild climate and lovely beaches have made Mallorca a popular destination for decades, but there is a cultural richness that many haven’t explored, creating a new stage of discovery on the island. The city was prosperous under the Moors and was known for its beautiful fountains and lush courtyards. Within the walls and winding streets, signs of Palmas’ past wealth are evident in its sumptuous churches, grand public buildings and mansions that crowd the old town. Alternatively, the trendy neighborhood of Santa Catalina exudes a vibrancy and originality in shops, restaurants and cafes taking on the same vibe that you might discover in Barcelona. The city has received much love and care over the last decade, and today it is a safe and charming destination that exhibits real life - not simply that of a museum only to be viewed but fully experienced.

Located at Plaza Sant Francesc, 5, E-07001 Palma de Mallorca, Islas Baleares, Spain, rates begin at 185€. For reservations, please email reservations@HotelSantFrancesc.com or call +34 971 495 131. Visit our website at www.HotelSantFrancesc.com, follow us on Twitter @HotelStFrancesc, Instagram @Hotel Sant Francesc, and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HotelSantFrancesc.

* Friar Junípero Serra, was ordained a friar at the convent. Considered the most important evangelist from Mallorca, he established nine missions in the United States including San Diego, San Juan Capristrano and Carmel in California.

General Manager

Ilka Karl - gm@HotelSantFrancesc.com

Tel: +34 671 334 736