Ca's Xorc
Nr Soller, Soller & Mountains, Spain
Reviewed by
Nikki Tinto
Located between Deia and Soller on Mallorca's rugged northwest coast, this former olive mill has become a chic and discreetly glamorous small hotel. The feel of style oozes from every corner - perhaps passed on by the touch of its sparkling young staff. The look is shabby-chic, blending Mallorquin with a hint of Moroccan.
You'll lap up sensational mountain views from the veranda, while sipping your drink to the sound of rustling olive groves and sheep bells tinkling in the wind. The food is delicious and the dining areas imaginative - lots of hideaways and a Moroccan-style tent for parties (lots of weddings are held here). This place is and has been good enough for premier rock stars and A-listers (Mick Jagger and Claudia Schiffer are both fans). But ordinary mortals love it too. Go walking along quiet mountain trails, lie by the pool and sun-soak, find a quiet corner to chill out and help yourself to books from the library.
You'll lap up sensational mountain views from the veranda, while sipping your drink to the sound of rustling olive groves and sheep bells tinkling in the wind. The food is delicious and the dining areas imaginative - lots of hideaways and a Moroccan-style tent for parties (lots of weddings are held here). This place is and has been good enough for premier rock stars and A-listers (Mick Jagger and Claudia Schiffer are both fans). But ordinary mortals love it too. Go walking along quiet mountain trails, lie by the pool and sun-soak, find a quiet corner to chill out and help yourself to books from the library.
Highs
- Cool interior design - this is definitely one of the island's most stylish small hotels
- The beautiful grounds, dotted with bougainvillea, hibiscus, marguerites, lavender, olive and lemon trees and aromatic herbs
- The Deluxe Rooms with Terraces - ask for #8, which is up in the attic with stunning views and plenty of privacy
- The whole atmosphere feels special, helped by the hotel's small size and friendly staff - you are very well looked after
Lows
- A car is essential to reach beaches, shops and nightlife (there's no bar or lounge for after-dinner drinks). Be warned, the drive up is a bit hairy; big cars won't get round those dusty hairpins, and your SatNav may not work
- Some don't like the old-fashioned style in the rooms, and cheaper rooms feel a bit small and dark
- Some past guests feel it is overpriced, but others say it is worth every euro. Mixed reports of service, too
- It's always full, so book early
- Adults only and no extra beds
Best time to go
May to September is hottest - a little before and after this is still ideal as the weather won't disappoint. The hotel closes annually from late October to late March.
Our top tips
Stay as long as you can - at least a couple of days to get into the swing of winding down and soaking up the atmosphere, a week if you want to explore the island. However long you stay, you'll really miss the place when you've gone.