From luxurious spa treatments to incredible Mediterranean food, it's a chance to reset and restore.
When I received an invitation to the 5-star Carrossa Hotel and Spa in Majorca, I didn’t hesitate to accept. I’d visited Majorca once before with my family and fell in love with the beautiful Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean.
The journey, with flight delays and missed connections, took much longer than the usual three-hour flight from Dublin to Palma, but once we arrived in Palma, the drive to the hotel in the northeast of the island took under an hour. We arrived at dusk, and as we approached the hotel, we caught glimpses of ancient olive trees scattered across the expansive property. I knew we were in for a treat when we were welcomed with a glass of cava. After a friendly introduction to the hotel’s facilities, we were shown to our suites.
The suite was exactly the kind of place I love: uncluttered and refined, with every detail tasteful and modern. The spacious bathroom featured natural stone and an indulgent walk-in shower that was hard to leave. A bed with crisp white linens, a small desk, a kitchen area with tea, coffee, and a mini fridge, built-in wardrobes, and a cosy seating area with a linen sofa and armchair led to an outdoor patio overlooking the rolling hills. The rooms were equipped with air conditioning, though it wasn’t necessary at this time of year.
Dinner awaited us at Restaurant Carrossa, where fine Mediterranean cuisine is on offer. The meal began with freshly baked, still-warm bread wrapped in cloth and served with olive oil, aioli, and olives – a simple start, yet one that could have easily satisfied me for the night. Every bite from starter to dessert was incredible, and we paired our meal with a local wine that perfectly complemented the flavors.
There’s something magical about arriving at night; the first morning feels like a big reveal. I woke early, just in time for sunrise, and it was breathtaking. Writing this, I still feel the beauty of the place as I experienced it on my first morning. It was truly magical! Breakfast at Restaurant Carrossa was a treat, featuring a buffet with an array of cereals, granola, freshly cut fruit, breads, meats, cheeses, and hot dishes to order. My glass was refilled several times with fresh-squeezed orange juice, and the coffee was excellent – all enjoyed with stunning views stretching to the bays of Alcúdia and Cala Millor.
Carrossa, once a historic manor house, has recently been transformed into a luxury hotel near the town of Artà. With over 300 years of history, the manor has been beautifully preserved, while luxurious modern facilities have been added, including a spa, a 17×5-meter indoor pool, a sauna, a steam room, and a fitness center. Outside, a heated infinity pool and a vast lounge area provide incredible views.
The weather was cooler than I’d hoped, but typical for November. A short drive took us to San Pere, where we walked along the beach to Son Serra and enjoyed a warm dip in the sea. Returning to the hotel, we savored a delicious meal at Bistro Badia, overlooking the infinity pool and panoramic hillside views. The grilled squid was my choice for the main course, but we couldn’t resist starting with their homemade croquettes.
Typically, I’m not one for massages, but I decided to try a Swedish back massage, and I’m so glad I did. We then enjoyed a dip in the indoor pool and relaxed in the sauna and steam room before braving the outdoor infinity pool.
That evening, we were delighted to find that dinner at Restaurant Carrossa was a buffet of Spanish tapas. I went back for seconds and only afterward discovered another room filled with even more options. Staying only two nights was probably for the best – I couldn’t say no to so much good food.
On our last day, we took a taxi to Artà, a charming village where we explored the hilltop castle of Sant Salvador. Strolling down the narrow streets, we window-shopped and enjoyed coffee with the locals.
As we returned for a relaxing afternoon before our flight back to Dublin, I knew that Carrossa is one of those places I hope to visit again.
Photography: Marlene Wessels
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