A Stylish Escape
An unforgettable stay at the Concepció by Nobis in Palma
I recently celebrated a very special milestone - the big 4-0 - and, thankfully, had the perfect way to soften the blow: a romantic weekend away with my lovely husband at Concepció by Nobis in Palma. If you're looking for an effortlessly stylish yet soul-soothing retreat, whether for a romantic break or a spontaneous escape, this hotel is a dream.
Words by Hannah Shannon-Burke
12/8/25
Housed in a sensitively restored 16th-century building that once served as a soap factory for Palma’s General Hospital, and later, a noble residence - Concepció by Nobis is steeped in local heritage. Located at the crossroads of Palma’s historic Old Town and vibrant Santa Catalina, the hotel offers a beautifully layered experience of the island’s past and present. Swedish architects Wingårdhs have cleverly married preserved features like vaulted ceilings and cross arches with Scandi-chic interiors and custom furniture, creating a space that feels both rich in history and stylishly contemporary.
With just 31 rooms and suites spread across the upper floors, the hotel has an intimate, boutique atmosphere. Each room is thoughtfully designed with natural materials, custom-made furniture, and soft Mediterranean tones. Our suite had a gloriously comfy Dux bed, a cozy Hay-designed sofa, and an elegant bathroom with a large walk-in shower and amenities by cult Swedish brand Byredo. Every element, from the lighting to the textures, felt curated for relaxation.
From the moment we arrived, the service was first-class. Friendly and attentive staff at reception greeted us warmly and guided us to our suite, setting the tone for a weekend of calm and comfort. One of the things that struck me most about the hotel was how fluid and welcoming the communal areas were. There’s no rigid separation between spaces - the lounge, restaurant, bar, and terrace all flow together. The lounge, anchored by a grand marble communal table and vintage Scandinavian touches, invites both quiet reflection and casual conversation. Whether you want to work, read, sip a cocktail, or simply take in the ambiance, this area is effortlessly inviting.
After a fantastic night’s sleep, we enjoyed breakfast at Restaurant Xalest, where the buffet spread was as beautiful as it was delicious. Local cheeses and serrano ham sat alongside fresh breads and juices. I opted for an Eggs Benedict with ham, which was cooked to perfection, while my husband had a made-to-order omelette with spinach and mushrooms. With sunlight pouring in through Xalest’s floor-to-ceiling windows and the relaxed atmosphere enhanced by soft music and stylish design, it was the perfect way to start the day.
Next, we made our way to what is arguably Concepció’s most delightful secret - its lush, three-level terrace and pool area. Nestled between local palms and terracotta pots, this exclusive guest-only sanctuary is pure Mediterranean magic. We spent hours reading, lounging, and sipping cocktails under the shade of the pergola, emerging only for a refreshing dip in the pristine pool. It felt like time slowed down here - we honestly felt ten years younger.
Lunch by the pool was an unexpected treat. From the hotel’s terrace menu, we shared the Iberian pork tacos and the Arabic mezze - both bursting with flavour and freshness. The cocktail menu is full of inventive options, but our standouts were the Spicy Pepper, a bold mix of mezcal, Aperol, and blood orange, and the Coconut, which was tropical and indulgent. Every bite and sip was a celebration.
The bar at Concepció is another standout - a beautifully designed, zinc-clad counter space with just 10 seats, where expert mixologists serve up bespoke cocktails using local ingredients and regional wines. It’s the perfect spot for an early evening aperitif or a late-night nightcap, set beneath vaulted ceilings and next to the lively hum of Xalest.
As for dining at Xalest, the menu created by Executive Chef Xema Álvarez reflects the island’s rich food culture with a modern twist - think seabass tiradito, cuttlefish croquettes, and beef cheek, all designed for sharing.The space is an extension of the hotel’s design DNA: warm, inviting, and full of Mediterranean light and colour.
After a fantastic night’s sleep, we enjoyed breakfast at Restaurant Xalest, where the buffet spread was as beautiful as it was delicious. Local cheeses and serrano ham sat alongside fresh breads and juices. I opted for an Eggs Benedict with ham, which was cooked to perfection, while my husband had a made-to-order omelette with spinach and mushrooms. With sunlight pouring in through Xalest’s floor-to-ceiling windows and the relaxed atmosphere enhanced by soft music and stylish design, it was the perfect way to start the day.
Next, we made our way to what is arguably Concepció’s most delightful secret - its lush, three-level terrace and pool area. Nestled between local palms and terracotta pots, this exclusive guest-only sanctuary is pure Mediterranean magic. We spent hours reading, lounging, and sipping cocktails under the shade of the pergola, emerging only for a refreshing dip in the pristine pool. It felt like time slowed down here - we honestly felt ten years younger.
Lunch by the pool was an unexpected treat. From the hotel’s terrace menu, we shared the Iberian pork tacos and the Arabic mezze - both bursting with flavour and freshness. The cocktail menu is full of inventive options, but our standouts were the Spicy Pepper, a bold mix of mezcal, Aperol, and blood orange, and the Coconut, which was tropical and indulgent. Every bite and sip was a celebration.
The bar at Concepció is another standout - a beautifully designed, zinc-clad counter space with just 10 seats, where expert mixologists serve up bespoke cocktails using local ingredients and regional wines. It’s the perfect spot for an early evening aperitif or a late-night nightcap, set beneath vaulted ceilings and next to the lively hum of Xalest.
As for dining at Xalest, the menu created by Executive Chef Xema Álvarez reflects the island’s rich food culture with a modern twist - think seabass tiradito, cuttlefish croquettes, and beef cheek, all designed for sharing.The space is an extension of the hotel’s design DNA: warm, inviting, and full of Mediterranean light and colour.
Though we were in full relaxation mode, it’s good to know that the hotel also features a wellness area complete with a gym, sauna and relaxation zone, all exclusive to guests. With free weights, an elliptical, a stationary bike, and yoga mats, it’s ideal for those who like to balance out indulgence with a bit of movement.
Before checking out, my husband snuck away for a quick adventure and climbed up to the hotel’s observation tower, a hidden architectural gem perched at the top of the building. With space for just two, it’s an intimate spot offering stunning panoramic views over Palma’s rooftops. He came down raving about it - a peaceful, almost secret place to take in the city from above.
In short, Concepció by Nobis was the perfect place to ring in a new decade. It’s more than just a beautiful boutique hotel - it’s a calming, creative sanctuary that captures the very best of Palma. Stylish, serene, and full of thoughtful detail, it made turning 40 feel like the start of something very special. I can’t wait until our next visit.
Words by Hannah Shannon-Burke
12/8/25
Though we were in full relaxation mode, it’s good to know that the hotel also features a wellness area complete with a gym, sauna and relaxation zone, all exclusive to guests. With free weights, an elliptical, a stationary bike, and yoga mats, it’s ideal for those who like to balance out indulgence with a bit of movement.
Before checking out, my husband snuck away for a quick adventure and climbed up to the hotel’s observation tower, a hidden architectural gem perched at the top of the building. With space for just two, it’s an intimate spot offering stunning panoramic views over Palma’s rooftops. He came down raving about it - a peaceful, almost secret place to take in the city from above.
In short, Concepció by Nobis was the perfect place to ring in a new decade. It’s more than just a beautiful boutique hotel - it’s a calming, creative sanctuary that captures the very best of Palma. Stylish, serene, and full of thoughtful detail, it made turning 40 feel like the start of something very special. I can’t wait until our next visit.