Ca's Xorc Boutique Hotel is one of the most romantic places in Mallorca. Nestled on the mountains near Soller, this traditional finca has been stylishly renovated to offer the latest facilities in a relaxing surrounding with breathtaking views. And their gastronomic restaurant only adds to the charm, serving local cuisine with surprising contemporary touches.
Meet Iñigo Ochoa, the man behind this piece of paradise, Ca's Xorc Boutique Hotel & Restaurant, as he tells us what is so special about his job and about living and working on the beautiful island of Mallorca.
Tell us a little bit about your business, how it started out and where you're based
I remember that the first time I arrived to C'as Xorc I phoned one of my best friends, I just felt the need to tell the rest of my world how lucky I was… Before Ca's Xorc Boutique Hotel & Restaurant was opened in 2000, the main building was composed of three farm houses dedicated to the production olive oil. The oldest one, dating back to the 17th century, was an old oil mill in need of some loving. Through painstaking effort to preserve the charm of the past and using sustainable architecture features and techniques, Ca's Xorc Boutique Hotel & Restaurant was created, a lovely boutique hotel with only 15 rooms.
What makes Mallorca a special place to be for someone in your profession?
Mallorca is a place very well suited for tourism, but it has also succeeded in maintaining its roots, its culture and its purely Mediterranean essence. This has allowed the island to be one of the top destinations in the world, a circumstance that obviously has a huge impact in my profession.
What are the best bits about your job and your life here?
Having a direct contact with clients. Being the general manager, I'm involved in all operations, but always focused on our client’s needs. That's why having a direct contact with clients is so important, it's the only way of assessing the results of all our hard work. As to life in Mallorca, I just love the quality of life here: the Mediterranean, the light, the nature and tranquillity...
And the worst bits?
Endless workdays...
What's your insider's tip for the best sights?
The “calas”, small coves on the northwest coast of the island, such as the ones in Llucalcari or Bens d´Avall, near Port de Soller. Here you can get a piece of the Mediterranean sea almost only for yourself, and right in the middle of the high season!
Where will we find the best coffee?
Stop Bar in Soller, where you´ll mix with the locals. Don´t forget to order a "pepito de lomo”, a sandwich filled with Iberian pork, salad and a secret sauce… probably the nearest you´ll ever get to tasting heaven.
What has been your best ever day in Mallorca?
Running in the mountains between the lakes of Gorg Blau and Cuber, and watching the sunset from one of the highest peaks in Mallorca, Puig Major.
What do you do on your days off?
Reading, running, relaxing, snorkelling… just taking care of myself.
What do you do in the low season?
I prepare for the high season and travel.
If someone was coming here for the first time, what would you suggest they absolutely must do or see in this destination?
I'd try not to overburden them with too many things to do, otherwise they´ll miss the best part of the island: relaxing and enjoying Mallorca's light, nature, tranquillity…
