Page 134 - Powerlist 2020

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T R A V E L S P E C I A L Palma’s Most

Exclusive Abode

With its bespoke suites, vintage Champagne collection and its own super
yacht, it’s no wonder Palacio Can Marques is a favourite of the jet set
By Selina Julien

here’s something magical about Congo so there are some influences of evenings. Expect exceptional cuisine
Mallorca’s charming, cultural African culture in my designs,” she says. thanks to exuberant resident Belgian
Tcapital Palma that keeps visitors “But my style is quite cosmopolitan as I chef Cèdric Lebon, who has curated a
coming back time after time. With its grew up in Paris and have been based in mouth-watering menu of Mediterranean
chic marina being a magnet to many, New York during recent years.” classics, such as lobster pappardelle
the newest addition to the luxury The former model turned designer and the grilled catch of the day.
boutique hotel scene is Palacio Can was the driving force behind the The Palacio is a real labyrinth of
Marques. This stylish adult-only bolthole 18-month restoration project, which a property with its little nooks and
is already a ‘home away from home’ for is her biggest project to date, after communal areas elegantly designed for
its discerning guests – especially as they working her magic on residential homes guests to relax – think vast bookshelves
can exclusively charter its 108ft super around the world including New York’s of interesting tomes and plush velvet
yacht WinWin. Park Avenue, the Hamptons, Zurich loveseats – it’s easy to find many
One of the oldest buildings in and Monaco. excuses not leave the property at all.
Mallorca, this resplendent 18th-century Palma’s most exclusive address If you do, Paseo del Borne, fondly
Palacio has opened its doors to the can be found tucked away in the old nicknamed the Golden Mile, is just a
public for the first time since 1760 after town, La Lonja. Behind the imposing short stroll away and boasts the likes of
being restored by German owner Kim wooden doors lies a breathtaking Louis Vuitton, Carolina Herrera
Schindelhaueur and his interior designer open-air atrium with grand symmetrical and Rolex.
partner Aline Matsika. staircase, gothic alabaster columns The sun-drenched roof terrace
The design efforts, which breathe and Champagne bar. Greeted by Al with its stunning panoramic views
new life into the former Palace, are Green’s soulful voice and a chilled and potent cocktails is ideal for
thanks to Matsika’s vision. Her love of flute of Lanson, it’s a memorable first lazy afternoons while the Lanson
luxurious and quirky furnishings mean impression. Champagne bar in the lobby lends
the 13 bespoke suites are layered with Suites include Renaissance, with its itself to late-night lingering. Carving
Murano chandeliers, art deco-inspired dreamy four-poster bed and soaring an exclusive tag for itself, the Palacio is
mirrors, French antiques and African ceilings; Romance, with a decadent impressively the only hotel residence
crafts. “I was born in the Republic of bathtub à deux; and Eden, channelling in Spain to boast the entire Lanson
a hidden sanctuary complete with vintage collection.
traditional wooden shutters, mini library Despite its grandeur, the Palacio
and hidden lift. is unpretentious and relaxed, with
The piece de resistance is the accommodating staff providing
Moroccan-themed presidential suite everyone with VIP treatment.
Riad, the largest suite on the island, Matsika enthuses: “We’ve created
which boasts three bedrooms, a palatial a wonderful sanctuary here and I’m
living area, kitchen (guests have the so humbled when guests tell me how
option of bringing their own chef) and much they adore it.
private terrace. Matsika’s signature “This is not just a hotel, it’s our home
stamp can be found on the zebra print and we love to share it with guests.”
chairs she designed and all the beautiful
touches that nod to North Africa. Suites are approx £850 for a weekend
Local patrons and foodies alike adore stay, with a one-day excursion on board
the crypt-like Restaurant Can Marques, WinWin (inclusive food, drinks, crew
Ahoy there: Guests can charter and its courtyard with towering palm and fuel) costing £10,000 plus tips
the 108ft super yacht, WinWin trees is perfect for dining during balmy Palaciocanmarques.com

134 Powerlist 2020