A First Look At Rafael Nadal’s New Mallorca Hotel

As he prepares for his final season as a tennis player, Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, has become a hotelier. The first property from his new ZEL lifestyle brand launched last month in Mallorca, the sun-drenched Spanish island where Nadal was born.

Rafa Nadal: “A dream come true.”

“For me, opening ZEL in Mallorca is a dream come true. As someone who has spent much of my life traveling the world, I wanted to create something refreshing and vibrant that holds true to the traditions of the Balearic Islands,” says Nadal.

ZEL is a fresh hospitality concept, “born in the Med” and created in collaboration with Meliá Hotels International. Founded in Mallorca, Meliá is one of Spain’s leading domestic operators of holiday resorts and the 17th-largest hotel chain worldwide, with more than 400 hotels in 43 countries.

Set along one of the island’s most famous beaches in Palmanova, the hotel is only a 15 -minute drive from the bustling capital of Palma and less than 30 minutes from Palma de Mallorca Airport.

About Mallorca

Whereas Mallorca used to be viewed mainly as a destination for budget beach vacations, the largest of Spain’s Balearic islands has switched up its once-tacky image for something far more glamorous. These days, a new generation of well-heeled travelers are venturing here, not only for the great beaches and turquoise coves, but also for the superb farm-to-table dining and organic agriculture, the wineries and olive groves, excellent hiking and biking and, last but certainly not least, a truly exceptional selection of luxury hotels.

Better still, as of last year, it is easier than ever for U.S. travelers to reach Mallorca, following the launch of a seasonal direct route from Newark to Palma de Mallorca with United Airlines.

Inside ZEL Mallorca

The ZEL concept takes inspiration from the welcoming homes, outdoor culture and spontaneous lifestyle of the Mediterranean. Its look and feel is based on open and dynamic spaces, inviting guests to feel the warmth of a Mediterranean house. The Mediterranean patio is the center of the experience, functioning as a lobby as it interconnects the various areas of the property creating a sense of freedom through open-air living. Meanwhile, the main pool is situated next to the Mediterranean Sea, overlooking the long-awaited Beso Beach, where guests can sit at tables with their feet in the sand.

The ZEL hotels are inspired by the ‘phygital’ philosophy that combines physical elements with technological innovation—working together to enhance the experience and comfort of the guests. Instead of a traditional reception, guests will find a digital kiosk on the patio where they can access their room card using only their phone. A similarly convenient checkout option will be offered to those who wish to use it.

Inspired by the Mediterranean way of life

As for the 165 rooms, 21 of which are suites or junior suites, they all offer stunning sea views and a design esthetic inspired by the Mediterranean way of life.

In the words of Gabriel Escarrer, CEO of Meliá Hotels International: “Meliá’s international experience of more than 65 years in creating and managing luxury hotels and Rafael Nadal’s inspirational leadership have come together to create this unique brand we present today.”

“ZEL, an innovative, energetic hotel brand, will attract and surprise a new generation of travelers that are seeking new ways to focus on wellbeing and travel sustainably. We are so happy to announce this special partnership with such an admired icon like Rafa,” Escarrer commented.