Son Brull Hotel and Spa

Urban chic meets rural idyll - a design hotel with gourmet restaurant, pool and spa set in a tranquil valley near Pollenca

If you need a fix of contemporary design, top notch service but in a handy rural setting, Son Brull has it sussed. Only a couple of miles from the picturesque town of Pollenca in the north, it's set on a forested hillside with great views across the plain. Don't think small boutique: with its substantial size and natural setting, it's got imposing presence when you first arrive. Its 23 slickly designed, teched up rooms are so geared for comfort they even come with pillow menus.

This was once a monastery. Its olive mill still remains as does the stone courtyard. But things have moved on for worshippers today. An infinity pool now overlooks the valley. Not content with ordinary sun loungers, special double day-beds with wafting muslin drapes line the decking. Its spa, chill-out bar and fine restaurant now cater for a different kind of monk: mostly romantics sometimes with toddler but not afraid to venture out on the town. Divine.

Highs

• High-style, comfy, teched up rooms with luxurious bathrooms
• Good location: mountains, beaches and golf are nearby and you're not too far from nightlife in Pollenca
• It's a substantial size without being formal or stuffy
• Lazing on the day beds under floating drapes looking over pool and valley
• Spa and massages for extra pampering
• Helpful staff who can assist with planning your trips
• Top notch restaurant and cool bar area - breakfast by the pool is a fine start to the day

Lows

• Unless you're a walker or cyclist you'll need a hire car to get around
• Some of the old monastery bedroom windows are a little small which makes the rooms a bit dark but fab interiors more than make up for this
• Slightly less intimate than some of our other smaller hotels and service can be slow although you're made to feel very welcome