Hotel de Mar
A verse, a sigh, a shadow
Pablo Neruda once said, “A hotel is a poem in progress where every guest adds a verse, a sigh, a shadow.” The Hotel de Mar stands as a privileged witness to countless stories over six decades, and last summer, I was fortunate enough to experience a part of that narrative on the beautiful island of Mallorca. This haven has served as a temporary home for artists, writers, and royalty, who found within its welcoming walls the ideal space for rest and disconnection.
Every time I approached this ‘chocolate hotel’—a nickname given to it because of the thousands of brown ceramic tiles that adorn its façade—I couldn’t help but feel drawn to its unique charm. Conceived in 1962 by renowned architect José Antonio Coderch, with contributions from distinguished designers Alfonso Milá and Federico Correa, this space has functioned as an oasis bathed in the serene waters of the Mediterranean.
Its modernist style not only embodies contemporary architecture but also reflects a deep respect for the surroundings. Each line and volume, carefully planned, speaks of a clear purpose: to create a legacy that honors the essence of the Mediterranean landscape while integrating seamlessly into its setting.
Stepping into its microcosm was a revelatory experience; the stories and secrets held within its walls seem to whisper in the visitor’s ear. During my stay, every corner inspired me, and every image spoke of the lives of those who came before me, forging a subtle yet powerful connection with the space. The energy of the place, infused with the serenity of the sea, made me feel like one of the many great personalities who have found solace and creativity here. There is a special magic in this place that is hard to put into words, even for someone who writes. Some experiences, places, and moments must be lived firsthand, and this hotel is undoubtedly one of them.
The celebration of its recent history brought me there alongside many notable figures, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. The champagne bottles, trays of oysters, and a soundtrack filled with iconic songs from the seventies and eighties made me relive the spirit of the genuine luxury parties that surely took place here a few decades ago.
Photographs from the collection of the magazine Quaderns d’Arquitectura i Urbanisme - Historical Archive of the College of Architects of Catalonia.The addition of Bombón by Alberta Ferretti, the pool club, adds a new chapter to the hotel’s sixty-year history. This newly inaugurated space captures the artistic vision of the Italian designer, offering visitors a unique aesthetic experience. With meticulous attention to detail, the textures, colors, and decorations transform the area into a sophisticated setting that invites relaxation and enjoyment.
The essence of the Hotel de Mar, supported by the prestigious Gran Meliá group, remains fundamental to the history of Mallorca. I look back with gratitude on my time there, where art, fashion, and gastronomy intertwined to offer not just a service, but an unforgettable experience—one I long to relive.
Photographs from the collection of the magazine Quaderns d’Arquitectura i Urbanisme - Historical Archive of the College of Architects of Catalonia.
Federico Correa. Drawings of Hotel de Mar. Palma. c. 1963. © Correa and Milá Fund, Architects - Historical Archive of the College of Architects of Catalonia.
Federico Correa. Drawings of Hotel de Mar. Palma. c. 1963. © Correa and Milá Fund, Architects - Historical Archive of the College of Architects of Catalonia.
