Mallorca Property Magazine issue 4

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9 MallorcaNovember - Living Inspiration 23rd - December 6th 2017

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November 2017

Issue 17

We give your dreams a home

Tel. +34 971 23 85 84 www.engelvoelkers.com/mallorca

The thinker’s finca

DON’T think about it too long… but this historic home once owned by one of the godfather’s of Spanish philosophy has just come up for sale. The 1,500 metre square country home, Casa Mata, was once owned by Mallorcan philosopher Ramon Llull, who wrote in Catalan. Credited as being one of the forefathers of the Catalan language, Llull even has a university named after him in Barcelona. On sale via various agents, the stunning hunting estate in Mallorca has 53 hectares of prime land and numerous outbuildings. The 13th century writer and artist was hugely influential on the island and once taught king James II of Aragon. Llull lived in the huge estate near ANCIENT: a Llull book Algaida from 1250 until a series of six religious visions led him to leave his family to lead a life as a missionary converting Muslims and Jews to catholicism. He wrote over 200 works during his life and has a tomb in Palma’s basilica of St Francis, currently being restored. His family sold the home in the 16th century. It sits near Llucmajor on the road from Randa to Montuiri.

The Brits are back

PHILOSOPHER’S STONES: Thinker Llull (left) once lived in stunning Casa Mata

Bring it on S PAIN’S property market is set for another healthy year. Sales and prices are expected to rise… as long as there are no sudden economic shocks, predicts one of the country’s largest agents. According to Anticipa sales will rise by 9.3% next year to 526,000 properties, up from 481,000 this year and 21% more than in 2016. Prices are also expected to rise by 6.1% next year, on top of an expected

Another 12 months of growth in Spain with 10% more sales - as long as Catalunya is dealt with

6.9% this year. Prices for resales and new builds meanwhile, are expected to continue to increase by 5.8% over the fourth quarter of this year. The firm’s latest report, however, was compiled before Catalunya declared independence and Madrid imposed

direct rule. The region is regarded as the wealthiest in Spain and its capital Barcelona has seen some of the highest property price rises this year. It is hoped that the political uncertainty will not affect sales too much, particulary as regional elections have now

been called for December 21, and the situation has calmed down. However, this has not stopped some of Spain’s largest property companies with links to the region, seeing their share prices slump. Merlin Properties and Colonial fell by 5.3% and 6.4% respectively at the height of the independence crisis. Investors, though, are adopting a ‘wait and see’ policy in the run up to the elections.

17 Property Shops on Mallorca We give your dreams a home

Tel. +34 971 23 85 84 www.engelvoelkers.com/mallorca

BRITISH buyers have bounced back in Spain over the second half of the year. According to one key developer, the number of British buyers has more than doubled on the same period last year. Between July and October 2017, homebuilder Taylor Wimpey has seen a whopping 118% increase in buyers from the UK. “We are extremely proud of the results generated to date in 2017,” said sales boss Marc Pritchard. “And it is great to see the British buyers back. “They have been half of the buyers in the last four months.” So far this year, Spain’s leading housebuilder has reported a 13% increase in sales (388 properties) compared to 342 homes last year. Enquiries for holiday homes during the summer season were up by 13% - the biggest growth seen in the last six years.


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Property

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November 23rd2017 - December 6th 2017 November

Spain is the foreign favourite and Brits are still out in front, writes Mark Stucklin

OREIGN demand for property in Spain rose 11.6% in the third quarter of the year, driven by global buyers compensating for lower British and Scandinavian interest, according to data from the latest housing market report from the Association of Spanish Registrars. Some 15,312 home sales deeds involving a foreign buyer were inscribed in the Spanish land register in the third quarter of the year, up 11.6% compared to the same period last year, but down 1.8% compared to Q2 of this year.

Growing

As a result, foreign buyers are now 12.9% of the Spanish housing market, down from 13.3% a year ago, simply because local demand is now growing faster than foreign demand. Demand for Spanish property today is global, but just eight countries (excluding Romania and Morocco, which would be the 7th and 9th respectively, if not excluded) contribute 56% of buyers, led by the British as always, with 2,252 purchases recorded in the period (15% of foreign demand), followed by the French (1,299 transactions, 8% of foreign demand), and Germans (1,192 sales, 8% of foreign demand). Out-

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this rate. There was robust growth of 15.6% in Russian demand after several years of big declines, and reasonable growth of almost 6% from France, the second biggest market today. At the other end of the scale, British buyers continue to decline in the wake of Brexit, while Sweden and Denmark both fell by 7.5%. The overall picture, however, is another quarter of growing global demand for homes in Spain.

British demand for property in Spain Q3 2017

Foreign affairs

side the big eight markets, the rest of the world (including Romania and Morocco) delivered 6,744 buyers in the period, 44% of total foreign demand.

How is foreign demand for property in Spain changing? Overall, foreign demand for homes

in Spain increased by 11.6% in Q3 compared to the same period last year. Looking at the change in demand per country, we see strong demand up more than 20% from Romania, China, Holland, Ukraine

and the ‘rest of the world’, and a big increase of almost 20% in demand from Germany – the third biggest market and on course to overtake France in the number two spot at

British demand for property in Spain was on fire after the crash ended in 2012-2013. UK investors were attracted to Spanish property by low prices and rising confidence, with demand growth close to 50% or more in many quarters between the start of 2014 and the beginning of 2016. However, after the Brexit vote in June 2016, British demand declined significantly, but only for a few quarters. It now looks like British demand will return to positive growth in the next quarter or two. It looks like Brexit was just a temporary set-back. What is driving the change in British demand? More than anything, in my opinion, the Pound-Euro exchange rate that determines British spending power in Spain. British demand for property in Spain lags behind the exchange rate by a couple of quarters. I’ve also heard reports of a recent flood of enquiries from British clients looking to escape Brexit Britain and the hard-left Government that looks likely to control it. Interesting times when Spanish property is seen as a safer bet than British assets. www.spanishproper tyinsight. com

CG Property C/ Julia Bujosa Batle, 6 07184, Calvía Mallorca Tel: (+34) 971 670 300 Mob: (+34) 628 196 939

www.gc-property.com

Calvia – 850,000€

ref: CT132

A beautiful 4 bedroom property with lovely views on the outskirts of Calvia village. It has a plot of 1270m2 and a living area of 170m2. The habitable area of the property is set over one floor and consists of an openplan living room & dining room with central fireplace, kitchen & pantry, 4 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms. Outside there is a beautiful pool area and also lovely manicured gardens. Other features are central heating, a/c, laundry, carport and an irrigation system.

Calvia – 685,000€

ref: CT134

A lovely 4 bedroom detached villa in the village of Calvia. The property has an approx total constructed area of 196m2 and sits on a plot of 600m2. On the ground floor you will find the lounge/dining room, kitchen, library/entrance, double bedroom & bathroom. Upstairs there is the master with ensuite and walk-in-wardrobe, 2 more bedrooms and another bathroom. Outside there is a private pool and lovely manicured gardens. Other features are parking for 2 cars, central heating, a/c, laundry & storeroom.


www.theolivepress.es Property

Record hotel prices HOTEL prices have rocketed in the Balearics by a third in just a year. Prices have zoomed by a shocking 30% on last year’s prices, higher than anywhere else in Spain. While the growth is 12% higher than the national average, the regional authorities claim the extra revenue is also being passed on to staff. Hotels have indeed, agreed a 17% rise in wages to be spread over the next four years, something made possible by increasing prices. The industry also claims the rise is reflected in the amount of money being spent in upgrades and the raising of standards.

November 23rd2017 - December 6th 2017 November

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Top ten for expats SPAIN’S biggest cities are in the top ten best places in the world for expats to live. Madrid (right) comes third thanks to its good value rents, inexpensive bills and high job satisfaction, while Barcelona (left) came sixth thanks to its

quality of living and ease of settling in. The poll by InterNations was based on survey responses from nearly 8,000 people in 40 countries. Surprisingly Namana in Bahrain came top, while Prague came second.

First home built by the Spanish icon has Moorish influences

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HE first house designed by maestro Antoni Gaudi has opened to the public for the first time. The Casa Vicens has gone through a restoration project over the last two-anda-half years and has been kept to its original design.

Pastiche

Gaudí, the master of modernism and creator of the iconic Sagrada Familia, had been qualified only five years as an architect when he was hired in 1883 by a tile manufacturer, Don Manuel Vicens Montaner, to design a summer house Harry Winks announced as thein ambassador of the WINKS: Investing in Gràcia, then a suburb of luxury villa project in Marbella

Marbella’s Heights (below) Barcelona. Gràcia has since been swallowed by the city, and to the

Winks moves in

ENGLAND star Harry Winks has invested in a new development on the Costa del Sol. The Spurs midfielder is a shareholder at the Heights, at La Resina Golf Club, in Marbella. The 11 opulent new villas, deThe second veloped ambassadors is the former U.S. Open by the La Sala group, Champion Michael Campbell

include infinity pools, wine cellars and 24 hour security. They also have direct access to the celebrated golf course.

Oh my Gaudi! DETAIL: Exterior features are unusual and colourful

visitor, happening upon the house in its narrow street, among offices and apart-

ment blocks, the Casa Vicens comes as a delightful surprise: a faux Moorish pal-

ace that might have dropped in on a magic carpet. It’s full of built-in furniture,

ARABIC: Inside spaces have Moorish influences

Views

“Each villa has specially designed entertainment areas to enjoy the uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean,” said a spokesman for The Heights. “The breathtaking environment comes with elegant contemporary architecture achieving the perfect balance between design, (Development comfort and Manager), respect for Melanie Warwick Michael nature.” ampbell (Ambassador), José María García Urbano Winks recently made his dethe Mayor of Estepona), Ian Radford (developer), but for Gonzaléz England in a 2018 FIFA Federico (developer)

World Cup Qualifier against Lithuania and has made eight starts for Spurs so far this season. He joins a long list of other footballers, who have invested via the La Sala group including David Bentley, Stephen Carr and Shay Given. Golfer Michael Campbell is one of the ‘ambassadors’ for the Heights development, where prices start at 1.275 million euros.

One for Santa’s list

INSPIRED by the architect Gaudi himself, how about this little hilltop stunner for Christmas? The lovely eight-bedroom finca, which has various Gaudi inspired touches, also comes with a home cinema, pool, gym, wine cellar, a garage for six cars, jacuzzi, BBQ area and an apartment for your staff. It sits in Monport in Port Andratx and offers stunning views of the harbour and village. And with a price tag of €17million let’s hope you’ve been extra good for Santa this year. Visit www.fara-homes.com for more information

murals of herons and cranes, and spaces between beams filled with paper-mache carvings of cherries of leaves. And there is a clear Andalucia influence inside the Arabian smoking room, where Gaudi incorporates a polychrome pastiche of the stalactite ceilings of the Alhambra in Granada – made of moulded cardboard. Fans will have to be lucky when visiting the new mustsee, as only 500 people are allowed inside each day.

Nun too clever

A GROUP of nuns have been fined €170,000 by the Junta for beginning upgrades on a 17th century organ without permission. The culture ministry has sent the fine to the Clarisse nuns of Sevilla’s Santa Ines convent for restoring the temple’s organ. The sanction will be reduced to €102,000 if they voluntarily pay the fine. The organ, by 17th century artist Perez Valladolid, has been listed since 1983.

STUNG: Nun at cathedral


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Property

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November 23rd2017 - December 6th 2017 November

Luxury home row ‘Barbaric’ development is to be built in Deia after decades of waiting

A LUXURY development described by opponents as ‘barbaric’ is to be built next year in Deia. The 21-home Petit Deia project (pictured below right) will be finished by 2019 despite green groups insisting it is unsustain-

Madrid by sea

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UROPE’S largest man-made beach is coming to INLAND Spain. The 15,000 square metre stretch of sand is being installed in the town of Alovera, 50 kilometres north of Madrid. The €14 million leisure project will also feature a huge inland lake, created by Chilean company Crystal Lagoons. Developers Grupo Rayet predict the attraction will be visited by around 250,000 people a year paying €10 a head. Computerised images show windsurfers, kayakers and swimmers enjoying themselves in Caribbean-style transparent water. A restaurant, beach bar, toboggan slides and a sailing school, plus 1,000 parking spaces are to also be built.

Port Andratx: reformed villa with sea views near the beach, const. area 153 m2 , plot size of 320 m2 , 3 bed, 2 bath, pool, whirlpool, heang, A/C, parking, Ref. 1546, 2.200.000 €

MOCK UP: Visitors hang out by one of the several restaurants and bars planned for the area

By Gillian Keller

able. The group Agrupacion Deia claims the houses, which will cost between €500,000 to €2m, are pushing young buyers away. It will also worsen parking problems and not aid the issue of water scarcity in the town they claim. Despite the opposition the project of two and three bedroom homes, designed by architect Toni Juncosa as a small village in the Clot area is going ahead.

Both the town hall and the Consell’s heritage department have finally signed off the project, that was first put forward in 1992. “Because the urban regulations have not changed in all these years, the town hall has no choice but to grant the licence,” said mayor Magdalena Lopez. “If not, we could be involved in a claim for compensation from the developers.” A spokesman for Agrupacio Deia, Lluís Apesteguía, said: “If we see that there is some way to paralyse the project, we will do it.”

Taking off

INVESTMENT in the tourism industry has increased by 25% this year. Businesses have spent €162 million this year so far on the construction, extension and renovation of hotels on the island. That is €26.6 million more than last year, with another 49 hotel improvement projects set to begin this winter.

Port Andratx: apartment in walking distance to the port, const. area approx.105 m2, terraces approx. 20 m2, 3 bed, 2 bath, pool, parking, air condion, Ref. 1549, 395.000 €

FARA HOMES, Calle Cristobal Colon 1, 07157 Port Andratx, Tel. +34 971 672 455, info@fara-homes.com, www.fara-homes.com


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November 23rd - December 6th 2017

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Finest Real Estate Mallorca

Son Vida: Elegant residence with spa and sea view in the most exclusive residential area of Palma. Three storey villa with a well-kept garden, 5 bed., 5 bath., outdoor pool with Jacuzzi, indoor pool, fitness area, staff apartment, terraces, under floor heating, garage. E&V ID: W-023KAU · € 4,500,000

Llucmajor: Luxury finca with open views and guest apartment located in a quiet area. It was refurbished in 2017 and has 4 bed., 4 bath. en suite, pool, elevator, central oil heating, air conditioning, own well, garage, automatic gates and much more. E&V ID: W-02958N · Price € 3,600,000

Palma: Fantastic penthouse apartment with private terrace in La Lonja. Part of a spectacular renovation project consisting of five luxury apartments with exclusive design and majorcan flair; underfloor heating, air conditioning, terraces, balconies and lift. E&V ID: W-029AR9 · € 2,500,000

Puerto Alcudia: Fantastic waterfront apartment with amazing sea views and direct beach access. Very good condition, featuring in 3 bed. and 2 bath., sunny terraces, underground parking space. Perfect location, close to all amenities. E&V ID: W-02996M · Price € 675,000

Puerto de Andratx: Luxury sea view villas with modern architecture and high-quality materials. 3 bed., 3 bath., pool, elevator, chill-out lounge, garden, underfloor heating, high-quality and fully-equipped kitchen, domotic system and much more. E&V ID: W-02793J · Price from € 1,890,000

Valldemossa: Stunning Majorcan house with impressive views surrounded by porches and gardens. It has a large entrance hall, living and dining room with fireplaces, kitchen with storage, 6 bed. and 5 bath. Pool, garage and parking space. E&V ID: W-029ZLN · € 2,250,000

Engel & Völkers Mallorca · Tel.: +34 971 23 85 84 Mallorca@engelvoelkers.com · www.engelvoelkers.com/mallorca


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A cut above

November 23rd2017 - December 6th 2017 November

END RESULT: One of VillaPix’s portraits

Using a drone can really mean lift off for any property on the market to sell or rent

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HE drone was already over 100m into the air and going at a rate of knots, before the device hit a temporary hitch. As if 45 degree slopes and a legion of cypress trees to avoid was not enough, the alarm had gone off on the console and wouldn’t go off. Quickly establishing this was no issue with batteries, the team Gary Edwards and Dave Vickers from VillaPix soon realised that this was a warning about a restricted zone. Despite being in the heart of the Serrania de Ronda, a few miles outside the historic market town, there was oddly a ‘no-fly’ ban over 100m in the air. Both experienced photographers, they were well used to the rules involving flying around airports, royal palaces and sensitive city zones. So what was this? It turns out the ban was due to the Spanish Foreign Legion base a few kilometres up the road and, as Gary explained they could still get the perfect aerial shot, but they would be very careful not to break the rules, something that is important to note. Since the emergence of commercial drones a year or two ago, a raft of aerial production companies have launched in Spain offering the service to rental homes and particularly estate agents and developers. But few are properly licensed, understanding the laws of flight, not to mention having any clues about proficiency. “Becoming legal is expensive and involves taking courses,” explains Gary, who has lived in Marbella for two decades. “There are theoretical exams covering ‘AESA’ regulations, international air law, meteorological conditions, theory of flight, communication, as well as a practical exams.” On top of this, the vast majority of companies have no understanding of visual marketing and how to best process the captured photos.

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UP UP AND AWAY: But the pair have a lot to check before the final result (4)

“It’s one thing to string together a series of aerial images, another to make those images function, reach their target and get your phones ringing,” adds Dave, who has been a filmmaker and photographer for two decades. The pair - who have travelled extensively working for Turkish Airlines over the last four years saw the opportunity to launch their product earlier this year as the property and tourism market began to grow again in Spain after years of recession. With tons of international experience - both as agency photographers and filmmakers - they are in the perfect position to offer not just the perfect angles to promote your property, but know how to stage it first … and finally how to best deliver the finished product be it film, stills Carlos Hotel, Molino del Santo, El Oceano and or video. Sunset Beach Club. Before the “We really try hard to elicit the shoot, the pair sit correct feel of our surroundings, down with their clients and discuss in length what The final product how each shot would influence a prospective client and why, and they are looking to achieve from is little short of of course what could be done to the filming. shot in post-production to “This way we can decide how amazing and the each help the final image.” the shots need to be set up and He continues: “Large properties which props may be required and pair don’t limit on the Costa del Sol are often where they should be. Attention themselves built on hilly plots. To get a photo detail can be the difference tograph of the whole property is between a good image and a very difficult as the cameraman stunning image,” explains Gary, has limited space and is unable who has worked with many of Spain’s top hotels and beach clubs, including Nikki Beach, the Don to get the distance from the house. “With the availability of the drone, the problem is solved - often only 15 or 25 feet off the ground can be the difference between a very ordinary image and a stunning one combining the property, the gardens, pool and the view.” He goes on to explain the complicated new laws brought in by this fairly new flying technology, and that using a licenced company is vital to avoid any fines in the future. “Be warned this is very important. It could have expensive implications for your business.” One client, Gabriella Chidgey, at www.alcantarilla.co.uk, whose house near Ronda features in these images, was blown away by the quality of images, many which are now on her website and being used by some of the UK’s top rental agencies. “All in all, the final product is little short of amazing, and the pair certainly don’t just limit themselves to the aerial drone shots… they did a range of pictures inside and out with a series of different cameras. VISUALISING YOUR SHOT: No better way than at Estepona Golf

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TRADITIONAL: The pair also do standard pics “Even better they were very fussy on getting the right items for the set up. This included colours and the right shaped towels! They both knew exactly what would work best.” Apart from villas and hotels, the company has been using its drones for golf courses, most recently Estepona Golf and the 5* Monte Rei Resort in Portugal.

Contact VillaPix at villapix.es or call 610713334 or 618876348


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November 23rd - December 6th 2017

When it comes to the world’s most opulent hotels, Spain’s star is in the ascendent

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PAIN continues to be the most visited European country by Brits and fellow Europeans. Last year it raked in €77 billion from tourism and it is already on track to smash that record this year. And with the opening of stunning new hotels and the renovation of historic classics, in Andalucia and nationwide, we can expect the country’s luxury bed night count to continue rising. Last issue, we reported on Finca Cortesin’s inclusion in Conde Nast Traveller’s World Top 50 rankings. Check out some of the other Spanish establishments named in that prestigious roll of honour, and others that we think should also have made the hotlist.

Branching out!

THEY have had one of the most respected woodwork and carpentry companies on the island for nearly two decades. Now Susanne and Stefan Stommel have branched out to launch they own homeware business, Leanti, on the Son Bugadelles industrial estate. Previously the location of Home Love and Adeste Kitchens, it is now so much better, a genuine cornocopia of items for the entire home. The German couple, who herald from near the Alps, are friendly and knowledgeable and understand the homeware market well. They have also kept a carpentry section and are still involved in all types of woodwork.

Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa, Mallorca, from €400/ night Perched on a dramatic hilltop adjacent to the sea, the Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa includes nine separate buildings comprising 120 beautifully-adorned guest rooms, four distinctive restaurants, a Talise spa, two swimming pools, three meeting rooms and a naturally lit ballroom.

Visit www.Leantigroup.com

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Barcelo La Bobadilla, Granada, from €186/night Barcelo La Bobadilla sits on a magnificent 1000-acre private estate. Reminiscent of a romantic Moorish village with its own Mediterranean chapel, the hotel’s rambling sections are interconnected by a labyrinth of overhangs, courtyards, vaulted passageways and a soaring marble colonnade. This private, 350 hectares estate of varied and unspoilt countryside has rolling hills and valleys covered with wild flowers and fragrant culinary herbs, forests of holm-oaks, olive groves and almond tree orchards: it is a paradise for animals, birds and game.

c/. Son Bugadelles, 9 | 07180 Santa Ponsa | +34 971 13 42 45 www.leanti-kitchen.com


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November 23rd - December 6th 2017 November 2017

Hotel Alfonso XIII, Sevilla, from €280/night Named after the king who commissioned it in 1928, this classic was designed to be Europe’s most luxurious hotel. Situated among the arches and arabesques of Sevilla’s historic city, the Hotel Alfonso XIII is only minutes from the monumental Reales Alcazares and Plaza de Espana. It’s easy to see why it has often made Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold Lists.

Belmond La Residencia, Deia, Mallorca, from €400/night The Belmond is one of the world’s most renowned hotels. Consisting of two manor houses dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, it provides real style, charm and character. Situated in the mountain village of Deia, Mallorca, the bedrooms are individually furnished and decorated in traditional Majorcan style. The wooden shuttered windows overlook the lush landscaped gardens, which provide fresh herbs and olive oil for the kitchen, fruits for the homemade morning marmalades and fresh flowers for the rooms.

Palma’s new Congress Centre is a stunning addition to the city’s skyline, writes Gillian Keller

The Westin Palace Madrid, from €230/night Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, Valladolid, Spain, from €390/night This massive converted Baroque-Romanesque abbey surrounded by vineyards is two hours north of Madrid. Its medieval aesthetic features vaulted ceilings, thick stone walls and a silent cloister. Bright modern furnishings are accented with warm wood and soaring windows, and there’s a one Michelin Star restaurant, Refectorio. Examine the peeling frescoes while you make your way through a fixed price menu that might include smoked cauliflower soup and roasted squab with an artichoke and olive confit.

Gran Melia Colon, Sevilla, from €160/night In the historic old quarter of the Andalucian capital, the neoBaroque façade and grand public spaces of Gran Melia Colon are steeped in legend in what is known as the hotel of the matadors. With nods to Roman antiquity, regal red-and-gold tones fuse with award-winning contemporary furnishings by the most influential designers of our time, Philippe Starck, Marcel Wanders and Edra, to name a few. Throughout, you will encounter an aesthetic that finds meaning in contrast, playing historical reverence against a wry, modern wit.

Soaring simplicity

Another hotel commissioned by Alfonso XIII in 1912, this mammoth building was built in just 18 months, born out of a desire to give Madrid a hotel worthy of a capital. Since then, The Westin has been a meeting point for important events connected with Spain’s history. It’s a member of the Starwood Luxury Collection and is known as one of the most luxurious hotels in Madrid, combining turn of the century grandeur with new amenities and high tech touches of the modern world. Work out at the 24 hour fitness centre, relax In the sauna or solarium, then enjoy elegant dining at La Roto.

Finca Cortesin, Casares, from €460/night This 67-room hotel in Casares is the elegant centerpiece of an ambitious real estate project that includes private villas and a top-rated golf course. Finca Cortesin takes its cues from traditional Spanish farmhouses - low-rise, whitewashed, terracotta-tiled and built around interior courtyards that often have Moorish decor. It’s a favourite for golfers and celebs, including Gareth Bale.

IT only took 12 years, but Palma’s Palacio de Congresos is finally open for business. The bold modern building on the Paseo Marítimo creates the perfect counterbalance to the GothicRomano masterpiece of Palma Cathedral, a few minutes up the road. The brainchild of Spanish architect Francisco Mangado, 60, building work began in 2008, but stopped and started multiple times for economic reasons. Now Mangado has been rewarded for his patience receiving the 2017 Spanish Architecture Prize for his innovative design. This is the second time the noted Navarran architect has won the award in 25 years, the first time for the Spanish Pavilion at the the world Expo in Zaragoza in 2008.

Green

His new convention centre uses 100 percent green energy, and all units and areas operate separately to ensure minimal energy use. In line with its green philosophy, the centre will host the first national conference on energy efficiency in February. Spain’s King Felipe I recently praised the centre as being an ‘extraordinary’ building, not just for its style but also its social impact on the city. He said Palma was now a ‘true city for meetings’. Meliá Hotels has opened its hotel Melia Palma Bay, with 268 rooms, alongside the building and expects 2018 bookings to double next year. By the end of this year, the centre will have hosted 170 events with more than 30,000 guests and 15,000 hotel stays. For a chance to check out the architecture and views of the bay first hand, book tickets for the centre’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Party.


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www.theolivepress.es

Ref: 11789

Bedrooms: 5

November 23rd - December 6th 2017

Bathrooms: 5

Build: 355m2

2,590,000â‚Ź

Modern House, Santa Ponsa Spectacular modern style house in Santa Ponsa. This beautiful house has been built on a plot of 1080m2, has 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms en suite (plus guest toilet) distributed over 2 floors. On the main floor there is a large bright living room with a modern style kitchen integrated into the living room, 2 double bedrooms with bathrooms en suite. On the upper floor there are 3 large bedrooms all with spacious bathrooms en suite and with access to a terrace of about 78 m2 with beautiful panorama views and partially to the sea. Outside the house we find large areas of gardens and terraces as well as a nice pool and a lovely porch. This property is located in a residential area of Santa Ponsa, very quiet to live and 10 minutes by car from all necessary amenities, pharmacies, supermarkets and shops, it is very close to several golf courses in the area, beaches and the famous Puerto Adriano with its shops and restaurants. A dream place to live !!!

Ref: 11783

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 3

Build: 100m2

1,300,000â‚Ź

Impressive Penthouse, Puerto Portals Impressive penthouse in Puerto Portals. This penthouse consists of 100 m2 of living space that has been completely renovated with high quality materials. It has 3 large bedrooms with 3 bathrooms en suite, the main bathroom has a bath with Jacuzzi. Guest toilet, elegant modern style kitchen open to the living room, bright living room with access to a terrace of 25 m2 with the best views of the sea and Puerto Portals. This apartment is located in a luxury complex that has a communal pool and several terraced areas as well as direct access to the wonderful Puerto Portals and its beaches. With all necessary amenities, international colleges, pharmacies, supermarkets close by. An ideal place to live !!

W W W. S G I - M A L L O R C A . C O M


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Y O U R PA R T N E R S I N M A K I N G Y O U R D R E A M S C O M E T R U E A PA R T M E N T S

TOWNHOUSES COMMERCIAL

Ref: 11788

PLOTS •

VILLAS

R E N TA L S

PENTHOUSES •

FINCAS

Bedrooms: 3

Yo u r s H e r m a n n K ö p p l e r

FULL SERVICE

Bathrooms: 2

Build: 301m2

1,270,000€

Townhouse, Bendinat Beautiful rustic style townhouse in Bendinat. This cozy house has 301 m2 total area and 152 m2 living area distributed on 2 floors. On the main floor there are 2 double bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen open to the cozy dining room and a living room with a nice fireplace which has an access to the outside area where we find a charming and large terrace with garden of more than 100 m2 and BBQ area. On the second floor there is a very large double bedroom with integrated bathroom, shower and dressing room. A lovely office with access to a terrace of 15 m2 with beautiful views over the bay and the sea. This house is located in a luxury urbanization where they have several garden areas and a nice communal pool. Located in a residential area very quiet to live and just minutes from the golf course in the area. Very close to the famous Puerto Portals with its shops and restaurants and only 10 km from the center of the city of Palma. An ideal place to live!

Ref: 11785

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 3

Build: 240m2

465,000€

Duplex, Santa Ponsa Duplex with garden in the Golf Complex of Santa Ponsa. This beautiful duplex consists of 137 m2living area, distributed on two floors. On the lower floor there is a fully fitted and equipped kitchen, a guest cloakroom, a very bright and spacious living room with access to a terraceporch and a nice private garden of 65m2. On the upper floor there are 2 double bedrooms, the main one with bathroom en suite and access to a large terrace with views over the beautiful gardens and pool of this luxury complex. This great apartment is located a few meters from one of the golf courses in the area, very close to the famous Puerto Adriano and with all the necessary amenities just a few minutes away by car. An ideal place to live or spend your holidays !!!

P U I G D E S C A S T E L L E T. 1 - 2 , B L . 3 , 0 7 1 8 0 S A N TA P O S A , M A L L O R C A (+34) 971 695 912 • INFO@SGI-MALLORCA.COM

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ON TOP: The palace sits high above Ibiza with amazing views

it of coin

STUNNING: Rooftop pool and (below) cave pool

Palace in Spain is first in world you can buy with cryptocurrency Bitcoin

A

T the highest point of Ibiza’s skyline stands the medieval Palacio Bardaji, built in 1742. With just under a square kilometre of floor space, which includes a near quarter kilometre of accessible rooftop, it can all be yours for 1850 bitcoin. How much that actually is in euros changes everyday, but at time of press, around €12 million. The Palacio Bardaji has gone through a rigorous yet protective renovation to bring it into the modern day, following strict guidelines from UNESCO (it is in a world heritage site, Ibiza’s Dalt Villa).

Luxury

It follows other luxury Bitcoin sales, such as Dubai Science Park which is selling units for Bitcoin and a luxurious London townhouse is also selling for Bitcoin this year. In total, the Ibiza palace has 921 square meters of floor space, and 220 square meters of land. It comes complete with six bedrooms, five bathrooms and a private garage among its three stories. The property also includes a separate, fully appointed apartment, as well as staff accommodation. Curro Quevedo Bueno of Zooo, the real estate agency responsible for the sale, says the owner sees Bitcoin as ‘a big thing in the near future’. “That led to the decision to become part of this new financial world. “We are very aware that doing the transaction this way will definitely not make things easier, as we still have to figure out a way to make this connection between this new world and the old one.”

ORIGINAL:

MODERN: Gold, white and spacious interiors

The interior decor is stylish and different


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santa ponsa

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intermobel.es

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November 23rd2017 - December 6th 2017 November

ET in a beautiful and peaceful valley at the foot of the Sierra Tramuntana mountain range, Alaró is a lovely traditional Mallorca town nestled in beautiful countryside with two striking butes as its backdrop. Traditional stone-faced architecture and narrow cobbled streets combine to create a traditional charm that provides a stark contrast to betterknown coastal resorts. Believed to be part of an Arab farmstead originally called Oloron (from where a local vineyard has taken its name), Alaró’s notoriety starts with the Catalan conquests of Mallorca in the thirteenth century where Alaró Castle, standing high above the village since Moorish times, was so impregnable that it became the Arab’s last stand. The Arab commander was able to hold out for two years after the Christian conquest, where the two heroes of Mallorcan independence were burned alive on a spit when Alfonso III of Aragon

By Amanda Butler

Tradition! This strictly Moorish and old school Mallorcan village of Alaró is a stunning setting for a home

finally took it by storm. Later, electricity and industry played an important role in its growth, with the town being the first to receive electricity, enabling the rapid growth of the shoe making business. At its height it was home to 30 factories employing more than 2,000 people. Today it is still home to the workshop of Tony Mora, renowned globally for his handmade cowboy boots. The only other indus-

try in the town is a sail making warehouse, one of the original reasons it is so popular with many yachtie expats finding their home here. Things to do: At the centre of the village is a charming square surrounded by a few traditional bars, restaurants, a hotel, the town hall and the Church. There’s even a homemade ice-cream parlour which I highly recommend!! There are a few oth-

We reward our loyal customers and new clients too!

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CASHBACK ON NEW POLICIES fOr ExIStINg CuStOmErS Or 40€ CASHBACK fOr NEW CLIENtS

If you are an existing Liberty Seguros customer, take out another policy, Home or Car, with Direct Debit payment and you will get 60€ Cashback – or 40€ if you are a new client!

HOmE

The Expats’ No.1 Choice

Visit your agent, call 91 342 25 49 or go to www.libertyexpatriates.es Only for new policies issued and in force between 21st September and 20th December 2017 and paid by Direct Debit. Not for renewals or replacements. Comprehensive Car Insurance: policies over 400€ in Mainland and Balearics, and over 300€ in Canaries. Home Insurance: policies over 200€ in Mainland and Balearics, and over 150€ in Canaries. 60€ Cashback for existing Liberty Seguros customers and 40€ Cashback for new clients (1st Liberty Seguros policy) will be refunded directly to your bank account (applies only to bank accounts within the SEPA zone).

The Olive Press – 250 x 200mm (Junior Page)

Propert y of the week

Until 2 0 th Dec em b er 2017

Car

er shops selling clothing to brick-a-brack, as well as standard services – everything you need from a country village. Alaró is also popular with outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of walking routes, cycling and climbing to choose from. Castell de Alaró (Alaró Castle) is a a popular walk from the town (approximately 2 hours, or further up the hill if you prefer to drive) which takes you to a ruined castle and hilltop chapel offering spectacular views of the Tramuntana mountains and over towards Palma and all the way to the sea. There is a well known lamb restaurant called Es Verger half way up the hill which is well worth the stop – quite rustic but a great experience. There is a weekly market every Saturday, from 8.00 to 14.00 selling everything from vegetables and flowers to clothing and jewelry. Alaró also has one of the biggest Nit de Foc (Night of Fire) Fiesta’s on the Island taking place on August 16th annually, with numerous events and activities leading up to the St Roc festivities. Living in Alaró: This town has a large and diverse international community, but remains authentic in its Mallorcan attitude and country way of life. An easy 25/30 minute commute to Palma, Alaró has something for everyone, with the traditional stone townhouses dominating the centre of town, and the further you get from the centre of the town providing more choice, from traditional fincas to modern villas. Whether you want to spend 170,000€ on a centrally located apartment or up to 6,000,000€ on a country estate, you will find it here in Alaró, one of my favourite towns on the island.

25 October

Contemporary stone-faced country house, beautifully re-built with striking views towards Alaró´s twin sisters - walking distance to town. 6 Beds ● 6 Baths ● 490 m² Living ● 68.000 m² Plot ● Pool ● €6.2m ● Ref: 17017 Beautiful newly re-built country home, just 10 minutes walk from the sought after village of Alaró, and sitting in complete tranquility and privacy overlooking the striking twin mountains. A light-filled entrance hall welcomes you into this elegantly ‘country’ yet contemporary home combining both modern and re-claimed features. Comprising a substantial solid oak kitchen with dining area opening onto a large side terrace, a spacious double height lounge with a beamed ceiling, library and fireplace surrounded on three sides by windows affording views over a large covered terrace, pool area, and the twin mountain butes. There is plenty of accomodation with five en suite bedrooms in the main house, and a self contained double bed guest house. Under-floor heating with high quality materials used throughout. The grounds are a mixture of mature woodland with a fountain, fruit trees and vegetable garden to the front and side, and a large swimming pool surrounded by lanscaped gardens and overlooking natural Mallorcan woodland maintained by grazing sheep. Moreover there is a covered carport and an outbuilding that could be converted into guest or staff accommodation. This is a delightful country home with viewing highly recommended.

Contact Amanda J Butler to buy or sell your home: Tel: +34690075169, www.mjcassociates.net. Your professional one stop property shop around the Island!


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WELCOME: To Santa Ponsa’s kitchen specialities

Kitchen confidence!

GLOW: Leichts at night

WHEN it comes to kitchens few people understand better than the team at Leicht, Cocinas de Nopper, in Santa Ponsa. Now opened on two sides of the main entrance to the Son Bugadelles industryialestate, the range of top quality kitchens is second to none on the island. The team of mostly German sales staff are knowledgeable about their products and will always find the most fitting deal for clients. Come and visit their new showroom next to the petrol station in the industrial estate.

TOP DRAWER: Glossy kitchen units galore, all complete with the latest state-of-theart technology, all available at the new Leicht show room

www.leicht-mallorca.de

A r e y o u l o o k i n g f o r a n e w k i t c h e n ? We would be happy to help you plan the kitchen of your dreams. Why not visit our showroom in Santa Ponsa and be inspired! Plan your individual kitchen space with our kitchen design specialists and see for yourself the diverse possibilities of the LEICHT kitchen world. x

x

An elegant touch for your home. This is

Carrer Illes Baleares N°4

07180 Santa Ponsa

www.leicht­mallorca.com

x

Cocinas de Nopper

Tel: +34 971 690 155


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