Hotel Check: Sant Francesc, Hotel Singular Palma de Mallorca, Spain

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: Within the city’s old town, this small boutique hotel mixes city life with relaxed island living. Shoppers have boutiques galore at their fingertips.

WHERE IS IT? In the shadows of neighboring Sant Francesc Basilica and within walking distance of the Old Town, this is the ideal base of discerning travelers looking to base themselves in the city center. While beach resorts abound, the hotels closer to town and are rich with history.

HOW MANY ROOMS? 42 rooms and suites

WHAT’S IT LIKE? Friendly doormen welcome guests into the small lobby for sit-down reception. Public spaces are minimal, but the service is tops. Pay close attention to the local artwork and antiques that mark the interiors. Some of the smallest details are found in the open-air patio at the heart of the hotel where the horses of this former residential mansion were once kept. As a member of the coveted Small Luxury Hotels of the World grouping, the new partnership with World of Hyatthas given the property a boost when it comes to American travelers.

ROOM FACILITIES: Given the history of the building, rooms vary in shape and size (Superiors are the smallest with the largest Privilege rooms adding a balcony). Deluxe is the most common category with extra living space, but all are noted for bright bathrooms with high-quality toiletry products. The hotel is historic, but modern interiors are a hallmark with well-placed power outlets and modern perks like free wireless Internet and Nespresso machines. Beds are more comfortable than usual in Spain with Egyptian cotton linens and thick pillows. USB power outlets are also an option, and bathrooms stock HEELEY toiletries. Local Mallorcan products stock the minibar, which is a special treat. Suites up the ante further with bonuses like larger living areas and terraces plus the most unique option, the Sant Francesc Suite, with a historic ceiling fresco painting and two private balconies overlooking Sant Francesc Square. Most suites come with an eau de cologne selection that guests can enjoy during their stay.

RESTAURANTS AND BARS: The main restaurant serves regional cuisine beginning with a breakfast buffet rich with local products. According to the hotel, many of the fruits, meats, and cheeses are from the island. Later in the day, the menu focuses on Spanish fusion dishes with both indoor and outdoor seating an option. Up on the rooftop, the terrace is a hot spot for sundowner cocktails with Palma’s skyline unfurling in the distance. The lobby bar offers its own designer cocktails with plenty of paired tapas to go with them.

LEISURE FACILITIES: A small plunge pool awaits guests on the top floor.

BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES: Wireless Internet is complimentary and fast; there is one meeting room available for 30 people. Private events can also book the rooftop area for social functions.

VERDICT: This is one of Palma’s hidden gems. It’s a small hotel with lots of energy and pizzazz. For those with World of Hyatt points on their mind (either for earning or burning), this Small Luxury Hotels of the World member should be front and center for visit to one of Spain’s largest islands.

PRICE: Internet rates for a traditional room start at $209

CONTACT: Hotel Sant Francesco, Hotel Singular, Plaza Sant Francesc, 5, Palma de Mallorca, Spain 07001. Phone +34-971-495-000. Sant Francesc, Hotel Singular