The shared spaces are very cozy and embrace the essence and charm typical of the captivating Mallorcan capital. Especially the dining room, featuring a beautiful open Lacanche kitchen, where every morning you can see breakfast being prepared live. This space is very versatile and can host breakfasts and dinners, and is also ideal for working, reading, or simply enjoying a tea – they have an extensive and high-quality variety.

On the lower floor is the gym and spa, where the centerpiece is a hammam.

And on the ground floor is where the inspiring courtyard is located, presided over by a small fountain and a wooden balcony.

The architectural project was carried out by the GRAS Reynés Arquitectos studio, and the interior design was designed by the prestigious Parisian studio Festen

Portella is an adults-only property (12 years +) and represents a celebration of local tradition and high-end hospitality on an international level, inspired by the island, as well as a reinterpretation of what it means to offer top-notch service.

“This unique interior design project was created by the prestigious Parisian studio Festen.”

This unique interior design project was created by the prestigious Parisian studio Festen, which primarily focuses on historic spaces, transforming them into eclectic interiors that maintain their essence.

Festen advocates for contextual design, in harmony with the structure and surroundings of the building.

In addition to being their first commission in Spain, what is interesting is that in their new phase, they have preserved the spirit of the artist, honoring his contributions to the building during its redesign process.

On the other hand, it is not a mere coincidence that the hotel’s design revolves around the integration between interior and exterior space.

Every detail of the design is inspired by the surroundings, from the nearby Arab Baths to the historical ties with Italy, while maintaining a serene and welcoming atmosphere.

Likewise, the desire to merge local traditions and history became the cornerstone of Festen‘s hotel design, who always kept in mind a maxim, that Portella would be a secret refuge, rather than a trendy spot.

In their debut in Spain, Festen collaborated closely with local artisans to materialize their vision, which prioritizes space optimization, brightness, and functionality, while highlighting original features and native materials, such as the impressive ceramic ventilation grilles and window carpentry.

The floors, made of local terracotta, feature designs inspired by those of the Arab Baths. The walls, whitewashed in soft tones, expand the space and enhance its cozy charm, while the furniture, custom-made in iron and oak, harmonizes with the original features of the place or with carefully selected antique pieces from both Spain and France.

Another touch of local authenticity is provided by the collaboration with the family-owned glassware Gordiola, whose 400 years of tradition and experience are reflected in an exclusive line of lamps designed especially for the hotel.

As we mentioned earlier, Portella is the result of a bespoke rehabilitation project, led by the interior design firm Festen together with the architectural studio GRAS Reynés Arquitectos.

The latter, with over 17 years of experience and a strong commitment to quality and sustainability, has played a crucial role in the adaptation of the hotel, standing out for its personalized approach and its ability to uniquely integrate the structure into the environment.

The guiding hand of Casa Bonay

The Miró-Sans family acquired this historic palace 7 years ago and decided to restore it to transform it into a luxury boutique hotel.

Portella is under the direction and management of Enrique Miro-Sans, whose sister, Inés, renowned for her success at Casa Bonay in Barcelona, has made her mark on independent hospitality, breaking the rules in the city. Although Portella is an autonomous project, both siblings share an innovative vision of revolutionizing the industry and creating real change in the way hotels are managed.

Both are committed to creating more boutique establishments both in Spain and abroad, where design, quality, attention to detail, authenticity, and unique service are the hallmarks.

The new hospitality

The “new hospitality” consists of minimizing unnecessary interactions that consume relaxation time. And at Portella, they have set out to ensure that their experience begins from the moment the plane lands. Therefore, they offer a luxury and complimentary pickup service to all their customers at the airport baggage claim area.

“The new hospitality consists of minimizing unnecessary interactions that consume relaxation time.”

Furthermore, this concept also implies that at Portella, they have eliminated the conventional check-in processes upon arrival and the usual restrictions of traditional hotels.

To top it off, one of their goals is to anticipate the needs of their guests, whether it’s with external bookings such as restaurants or theaters, ground or sea transportation, or simply by offering a menu based on fresh market products that day. If we want to go with the flow, they take care of everything.

Another differentiating aspect is breakfast. And at Portella, there’s no rush. Here, you can enjoy breakfast every day until 1:00 p.m. Additionally, breakfast is a delight. Among the different dishes on the menu, we highlight the freshly made country omelet and poached eggs, as well as the artisan pastries and typically Mallorcan cold cuts.

Lastly, but certainly not least, we want to highlight their service. Something that is taken for granted, but that rarely makes you feel better than at home. In this case, every single person we contacted, including the chef, has been charming and genuine. Luckily, at Portella, there is none of that absurd pomposity that certain luxury hotels insist on maintaining, which, besides being outdated, implies a servility that we find uncomfortable and unnecessary.

Highly recommended.

(*) Photos: Ely Sánchez and Cecilia Camacho.