ZEL is the new lifestyle brand born from a collaboration between Meliá Hotels International and Rafael Nadal. The collection is a hotel concept with a refreshing aesthetic based on the spontaneity, energy and family values of the Mediterranean…
The ZEL hotels are inspired by the ‘phygital’ philosophy that combines physical elements with technological innovation that enhance the experience and comfort of guests. Therefore, stepping in to ZEL Mallorca, instead of a traditional reception, guests will find a digital kiosk in the patio where they can get their room card by scanning the QR code with their phone, which they will have received when they registered online previously. If they have not already done this, they can register with their phone at that time while they enjoy a welcome drink. In the same way, when it is time to check out, guests receive a notification to check their expenses, validate them and pay online or in the patio with a member of the hotel staff if they prefer.
Image credit: Meliá Hotels International
The interiors of ZEL Mallorca transmit the harmonious mix of influences, with references to other key features of the Mediterranean culture from Italy and Greece, as well as patterns and finishes with a Mallorcan essence and earthy and ocean tones that generate an atmosphere brimming with energy. The renovation and interior design project were created by ASAH studio run by architects Álvaro and Adriana Sans.
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The patio, an essential element of Mediterranean architecture, is the heart of ZEL Mallorca, the epicentre and core of its energy. The patio functions as a lobby and interconnects its different areas, perfectly reflecting a passion for freedom and open-air living. Upon entering the patio, the first thing you will notice is the absence of a traditional ‘reception’, because ZEL is inspired by a ‘Mediterranean home’ and therefore the patio offers a concept store where you can buy exclusive products by national and international brands, a specialty café serving the brand Syra Coffee and a Mediterranean lounge.
Image credit: Meliá Hotels International
“We are proud to prove that a project with challenges and such high standards like the ZEL brand has been captured in a new gem of the Mediterranean hotel sector with ZEL Mallorca, which will undoubtedly be the best international showcase of the new brand and an emblematic hotel that we will feel very proud of,” said Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and CEO of Meliá. “This hotel is an exceptional jewel born from the combination of our experience in hotel management and the inspiring leadership of a worldwide icon like Rafael Nadal and the first example of the alliance of two groups of family origins and solid shared values. For us, today marks the start of a new expansion and growth phase for the ZEL brand and I am glad to mark the celebration with the announcement of our first ZEL hotel in Mexico: ZEL Sayulita, which will open in 2025.”
Since its conception, ZEL has aimed to take the spirit and essence of the Mediterranean way of life to the best destinations around the world, and the opening party included all the classic Mediterranean ingredients – a night by the sea, the breeze and the drums playing background beats, while the guests sampled the gastronomic offering and cocktails of the famous Beso Beach that operates the main restaurant on the property. Guests could see and experience first-hand the much-anticipated features that make the ZEL hotel concept stand out from other brands, like the patio, the open-air living concept, its integration with its surroundings and the contrasts of spaces created to embrace its trademark ‘fiesta and siesta’ concept.
Main image credit: Meliá Hotels International
