A few years ago, we stayed at (and loved) Nobis hotel in Copenhagen, a smart, design-led Scandi property from the Swedish-based hospitality group. So when we spotted Concepció by Nobis in Palma in the midst of planning a trip to Mallorca we didn’t hesitate to book it in for our first night’s stay in the capital.
Taking over a 16th century historical building in the heart of Palma, where the Old Town meets Santa Catalina, the hotel has been given a pitch perfect makeover by Swedish architects Wingårdhs. Successfully blending the historical parts of the building, such as the stone vaulted ceilings, with modern Scandinavian design, the building has been transformed into a super swish boutique hotel.
The heart of the property is the large lounge area on the ground floor, which seamlessly flows into the bar and restaurant. Patterned ceramic floor tiles contrast with black ceiling beams and bespoke furniture from some of Europe’s best designers – think low-slung leather chairs, plush green velvet sofas, and colourful light fixtures. And tucked into a small courtyard behind the lounge is a pretty pool and terrace, shaded with local plants, patio seating, and sun loungers – perfect for a relaxing break between seeing the sights. There’s also a gym and sauna if you’re in the market for a quick workout too.
There’s just 31 rooms and, as is often the case with hotels in historical buildings, they come in all shapes and sizes, with seven different categories to choose between. We were in a one-of-a-kind room, the Terrazza Room, which had its own covered private patio overlooking a nearby church, complete with wicker loungers, table and chairs, and green plants. It’s an ideal spot for a morning coffee or quick aperitif before heading out. Whichever room you’re in, you can expect the same Scandi-Mallorcan design, bespoke furniture, locally made bathroom tiles, natural woods, large windows with city views, and comfy beds dressed in Egyptian cotton sheets.
The hotel’s restaurant, Xalest, is where breakfast is served each morning, an incredible buffet-style spread piled high with local produce. We’re talking plates of freshly sliced jamon Iberico, local cheeses, tomatoes, fruit, pastries, and the king of all Mallorcan specialities, ensaïmada.
It’s well worth stopping by the Xalest for lunch or dinner one day too (the restaurant is open to both hotel guests and visitors) for local chef Xema Álvarez’s excellent line up of Spanish dishes. We loved the chorizo croquetas, the oxtail ‘La Bomba’, and the light, crispy Cristal bread with olive oil and crushed tomatoes alongside glasses of locally-made chilled vermouth. It draws a smart local crowd in the evening too, so it’s clearly got a good reputation with the neighbours as well as travellers.
A smart city hotel that effortlessly blends historical character with modern design ticks all the boxes for us, and Concepció by Nobis delivers all that and more. We’re looking forward to seeing the brand new Nobis Hotel Palma, which is due to open in autumn 2023 and looks like it’s going to be another winner for the team.
Carrer de la Concepció 34, Palma de Mallorca 07012, Spain
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