Portocolom is said to be the birthplace of the explorer Christopher Columbus, but I imagine if he were alive today, he’d be content to spend more time in this picturesque part of Mallorca. Like the holidaymakers who visit Portocolom for its beautiful setting, I’m always happy to be there, whether it’s for a walk around one of Mallorca’s largest, sheltered harbours, or a meal or drink while gazing at the boats bobbing at anchor in the water.

There’s a serenity about Portocolom, even in the height of summer. It’s still a fishing village where you can see nets laid out to dry or for mending, and the cute, traditional Mallorcan fishing boats known as llauts.

Portocolom’s Cool 5-Star Hotel

Portocolom has had even more appeal since the gorgeous, 5-star Barefoot Hotel opened last year. The hotel occupies two buildings opposite each other in a quiet back street and has 60 rooms and suites. Most of these are in the main building but 15 of them – and the Barefoot Restaurant – are in a building overlooking the water.

The vibe in this hotel is relaxed and friendly from the moment you arrive, and the reception team greets you warmly. We commented several times to each other about the friendliness of all the staff, concluding that the hotel being open all year and providing year-round rather than seasonal employment, could be a factor. That and good management: general manager Björn Wild was in charge at the 5-star Gran Hotel Son Net in Mallorca’s southwest for a good number of years.

The décor is based on a palette of warm, earthy shades and materials from nature. I’d sum it up as unpretentious luxury. It’s easy to feel relaxed here, whether you’re browsing through a magazine or newspaper in the spacious foyer, lounging on the pool terrace, or enjoying the privacy of your own room.

Other Facilities at Barefoot Hotel Mallorca

In summer (or for Wim Hof disciples in the colder months) there’s an outdoor pool and a large terrace with a variety of furniture for relaxation, including an inviting poolside hammock and Balinese-style beds. Alongside this is the large breakfast and lunch room, with tables available outside in appropriate weather.

Wellness facilities include a Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi, indoor pools, and relaxation area. Spa treatments are offered and if you do stay at Barefoot Hotel Mallorca, I recommend booking any spa treatments before you arrive. See here for the menu of treatments.

The hotel has a bike storage room – useful to know for those taking advantage of the cycling season.

Food & Drink

The restaurant in the larger building serves breakfast and lunch to hotel guests.. The choice of breakfast dishes impressed us – as did the server, Austin, who explained everything that was on offer. Hot dishes are made to order.

Barefoot Restaurant is the main restaurant, located in the building facing the sea. This dinner-only restaurant is also open to the public and has a separate entrance for those not staying in the hotel. Chef Florian García is at the helm in the kitchen and has worked at Hotel Cort in Palma and Hotel Valldemossa, among others.

The à la carte menu here references Til Schweiger’s favourite dishes. If you don’t know (and I didn’t until I read an article about him a few years ago), Til is a famous German actor, writer, and filmmaker. He’s also the creator of the Barefoot Hotels brand.

Escape the Winter with a Longer Stay

The temperature today in Mallorca has been up to 22 degrees Celsius (at home) and the sun has shone almost all day (as it has for several days). For those who live in colder climes and are retired or can work remotely, a longer stay at Barefoot Hotel Mallorca offers an escape from the usual winter. The hotel offers special rates for stays of 14, 21, and 28 nights – detailed on their website.

Special Rates for Mallorca Residents

The winter months are when islanders reclaim Mallorca after the busy holiday season. The pace of life is slower with fewer tourists, and prices in the open-in-winter hotels are more accessible. Barefoot Hotel Mallorca is offering special rates for Mallorca residents – an opportunity to have a mini-break in a different part of the island.

Be like Columbus and Explore!

If you can drag yourself away from the relaxing Barefoot Hotel, you’re within an easy drive of some places worth exploring.

Felanitx is 14km away and has a good market on Sundays. The area has several wineries and is part of the DO Pla i Llevant.

The attractive town of Santanyi is 16km away and has an excellent market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The town has some appealing shops, art galleries, and places to eat and drink while you’re there.

Visit the hilltop Sanctuary of Sant Salvador near Felanitx. At 509 metres above sea level, you can expect awesome views on a clear day. Castell de Santuari is another location with great views.

If you’re into golf, Vall d’Or course is very nearby, with elevated views toward Portocolom and Cala d’Or further south. You can play nine or 18 holes on this par 71, 5,538-metre course.

And, if you do book, please do tell the hotel you read about them on eatdrinksleepmallorca.

Jan Edwards ©2023