I choose Soller, after sourcing a late tourist season bargain from Ryanair, and a quick recce on the internet of Mallorcan destinations. I combined the stay in Soller with an overnight in Palma, journeying up to Soller by a restored wooden early 20th century train, through the terraced landscape of olive, lemon and orange trees. I didn't know previously about the Miro and Picasso connection, so it was a pleasant surprise to come across the Miro and Picasso galleries within the delightful railway station building. (The Picasso collection is the best selection I"ve seen of his ceramics. And the galleries are free!)
As for my stay in La Vila: first, it's a small hotel, 6 to 8 rooms in total, described elsewhere as "boutique" and "art nouveau." In other words, a lovely holiday destination. It is perfectly located, overlooking the little town"s main plaza, with a restaurant that extends out into the square. That said: while there is a cheery buzz of conversation audible in the front rooms of the hotel, street noise is not excessive and finishes early in the night; Soller is a quiet holiday resort which attracts mainly walkers and otherwise settled and relaxed visitors, as well as day trippers from other Mallorcan resorts.
Hotel staff are typical of small, local, hotels anywhere: chatty, friendly, providing good service and helpful information.With a reasonable cooked to order breakfast included in the price; 80 euro per night seemed about right, though bear in mind hotel prices invariably change seasonally. There is a good selection of tapas bars, fast food and differently priced restaurants in Soller, all within walking distance.
I stayed in La Vila for 3 nights only: enough time to get a sense of Soller and environs - the upper half of the town, set in the cloud covered peaks of the Trasmuntana Mountains and the laid back Porl of Soller at sea level, connected by a pretty retro-fitted tram. It wasn't a long enough stay to fully enjoy the place. But it was a great find, and worth the trip. I will be back. And when I do, I would like to stay in La Vila, if I can get a room.
Room Tip: That there is no lift in this 3-4 story building may be a concern for some.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC