Zafiro Palace Palmanova

My husband and I recently headed over to Mallorca, celebrating our wedding anniversary in style, at Zafiro Palace in Palmanova.

A luxurious 5-star resort, the hotel -which opened in 2017- is just 15 minutes by car from famous cultural hotspot Palma. Checking into the appropriately palatial reception area, I was immediately hit by the breath-taking view of spectacular suites, pools and restaurant areas awaiting us outside. Offered a welcome glass of prosecco from the Fizz Lobby Bar which beautifully began our romantic getaway, we were then guided to our incredible Junior Swim Up Suite.

This extra special ground-floor suite comprises a light and airy deluxe décor and layout with bath, rain shower and notably two sinks, plus makeup mirror. Boasting a spacious and super comfortable bed, the sleeping and living area faces out onto a sun terrace. Complete with the most relaxing Bali bed, private garden and your own pool leading into a larger shared one, this is sheer romantic decadence. Additional features cover: air conditioning, daily cleaning services, a safe, WiFi, minibar, two TVs, tea and coffee, and a hairdryer.

There are five suite types to choose between and 240 on site in total, each with a view over one of the pools. In addition to ours, there are: Junior Suite, Junior Penthouse Suite, Zafiro Penthouse Suite and the Zafiro Owner’s Suite. These vary in size and detail, and brilliantly, you can get a feel for them all while staying there because the suites face in on main areas. This adds to the luxe vibe, with guests all enjoying their private terraces and even a jacuzzi,  if you’re staying in one of the Penthouse or Owner’s Suites.

The family-friendly hotel has fantastic features for children, including separate play areas and a kids’ club. But for this stay, we’d left our two at home with grandparents, enjoying a romantic break. Struck by how much the resort is an ideal destination for couples in need of an escape, Zafiro Palace is a truly calm and tranquil setting. With a bottle of red awaiting us in our suite, I read my book and enjoyed the peace, while the Mr enjoyed our swim-up pool.

Meandering down for some lunch at La Veranda restaurant, this poolside destination offers light bites, meals and yummy food from the grill. Tucking into a few shared plates, burritos and Aperol Spritz were savoured while overlooking the water.

Just a little lowdown on the seriously impressive pools, of which there are lots of fabulous options to enjoy. You can explore the Main Pool made up of beautifully adorned pools and gardens, a Bubble Pool, Kids’ Pool with Pirate Ship, Oasis Pool for over 18s only, Swim-Up Pools and the two Indoor Spa Pools. Plentiful relaxing poolside beds are dotted about, as well as sun loungers, with so much space that even with lots of guests it doesn’t feel crammed. Nothing detracts from the relaxing vibe you’ll experience.

Later that evening we returned to soak up the open-air ambiance at La Veranda too, with steak and fish being our dinner choices joined by a gorgeous bottle of wine. Enjoying cocktails in the Cafeteria Zafiro afterwards, the night’s entertainment was a flamenco dancer display. A chic drinks destination, we reclined on sofas while exploring the drinks menu, and you’ll find music and vibrant entertainment options across the week.

Other dinner options include the Mediterranean-inspired El Olivo, Italian restaurant El Portico, Tastes & Sushi and finally, the Market Buffet restaurant where breakfast is held also. Each morning a sheet is delivered to your room with information about which gastronomy destinations are open that day and evenings, plus times and dress codes- and then you can make a reservation on the handy Zafiro Palace app.

After an excellent night’s sleep, and pinch-me moment of awakening in the beautiful surroundings of our suite, breakfast beckoned. Walking into the already-warm air, we headed over to the Market Buffet. Seated outside on the expansive terrace, I sipped coffee. Then exploring the amazing choices, we scanned pastries, fresh fruit and smoothies, hot dishes, cereal, waffles, churros with an array of sauces, nuts, seeds and really- anything you could ever wish for. Chilled fizz there for the taking, I saw couples also celebrating, enjoying a carefree glass with their breakfast.

While I headed back to our suite for some time relaxing by the pool, my husband then ventured over to a daily yoga class. Taking in the view, this session is held on a terrace overlooking the resort and he told me how invigorating it was. So much so, he went every day that we were at Zafiro Palace.

With Palmanova beach a 10-minute walk away, we strolled over and lapped up the sea and sand. The town also has bus links to Palma, should you fancy an excursion during your stay. The hotel’s reception team were really helpful here- when we asked about activities and excursions, of which I’m told there are waterparks, world-famous caves and local vineyards to discover nearby. Ideally located, the resort truly offers everything you desire for a fulfilling holiday. Close to several golf courses, it also makes for an ideal golf stay too.

Returning from the beach to our freshly cleaned room, we happily found both Zafiro and Fox PR had left us a bottle of cava to celebrate our wedding anniversary, which was that day. A truly special extra touch, sipping ice cold fizz on a private terrace complete with your own pool has to be the best way to celebrate such a married milestone.

Dressing up for dinner that evening, I noticed the effort other couples made too- which all added to the stylish night-time atmosphere. Pairing my favourite meadow print Baukjen Kaia Ruffle Dress with some serious heels, the resort was an ideal romantic backdrop. Tucking into paella, meat and fish dishes, some cheeky chips, salad and other perfect plates, we watched the sun go down while toasting our anniversary. And dessert of course called for a few different treats, including sorbet, cheesecake, and apple tart.

On our next day we went all out with the poolside relaxation (after another delish breakfast of course, those churros calling my name). First stop being the indoor Zen Spa, my husband trained in its adjacent gym space while I checked out the facilities. A comprehensive spa covering steam room, sauna, Turkish bath, and indoor pool and pool with water jets, there are Zen, Body & Mind health programmes available and a treatment menu too. Soothing and indulgent, the spa is a calming area ideal for getting away from it all while being within an idyllic location.

Having devoured delicious food and drink for a memorable and romantic long weekend, Zafiro Palace Palmanova is a slice of Mallorcan heaven. Boasting impeccable service, beautiful décor, unforgettable pools and spa space, bars, restaurants and my favourite hotel suite ever, we can’t wait to return again one day soon.

Visit zafirohotels.com for more information.

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