A former fortress- really- of luxurious solitude happens to be a unique and original five star hotel located in a secluded spot in Spain. Cap Rocat hugs the coastline of the bay of Palma de Mallorca, and is a welcome departure from the scene of discos and nightlife that draws many tourists to the island. And no one under the age of 15 is allowed to stay at the former 19th-century military fortress that in 2010 was converted to a privately owned 28 room hotel. With catwalks over dry moats, private terraces perched on fortified ramparts, and steep roads descending to the rocky edge of the Mediterranean Sea, Cap Rocat was meticulously refurbished by the noted Spanish architect Antonio Obrador, and what were once surveillance points are now three luxury suites called the Sentinels- private enclaves carved into the rocks, complete with their own plunge pools, which opened last month.
Obrador preserved many great elements of the original site, which is steeped in history, offering guests a luxurious experience in contact with the elements. The military drills have been replaced with a burgeoning breakfast of fresh bread, fruit and eggs, delivered to each room in large wicker baskets. And an airy hilltop cabana houses a spa, where the natural breeze off the sea is a free addition to any treatment. www.caprocat.com
