The Place
Mallorca’s south-western coast is extremely beautiful: from Andratx to the little harbour town of Soller, the dreamy coast road winds past the mountain villages of Estellencs, Banyulbufar, Valldemosa, Deia and Lluc Alcari, where a narrow road (but wide enough for cars) snakes its way down through a pine wood to Costa d’Or, a magical hotel. The view from its terrace and magnificent swimming pool is heart stopping. The 37 bedrooms are fitted out with imposing mahogany furniture; characteristic Mallorcan blue-and-white fabric decorates windows and beds. The atmosphere is of peace and repose. The hotel food is perfectly good, local cuisine, but gourmets in search of a change will find many excellent restaurants in the vicinity, either in the former artist’s colony of Deia, or heading towards Soller.