Festive season at Grand Hotel Son Net: Christmas in the Tramuntana

Mar&Duix is the heart of festive dining at Son Net. In recent years I have dined there several times at Christmas; the atmosphere is subdued, with candlelight on the tables and a hint of pine drifting through the open terrace doors. On Christmas Eve there is a four‑course menu that blends classic Mallorcan and Mediterranean flavours: think baked cod tartlets with aioli, confit pork shoulder with herbs from the mountains, and a surprising dessert pairing of almonds and oranges. Portions are moderate, so there's room for a second helping — or a small digestif afterwards. On Christmas Day guests are often offered a choice between lunch and dinner; families with children receive reduced prices and there are child‑friendly options that go beyond fries. The restaurant also focuses on local producers: nearby olive oil, cheese from Mallorca's pastures and seasonal vegetables. Prices and times vary year to year, but expect fixed menus from around €130–150 for adults; drinks may be charged separately except in special holiday packages. My tip: reserve early if you want a window seat — the view over the Tramuntana is especially beautiful in the late afternoon light. A small personal note: on colder evenings a seat inside near the fireplace is worth it. You eat more slowly, talk more, and it really feels like a celebration.

Mar&Duix is the heart of festive dining at Son Net. In recent years I have dined there several times at Christmas; the atmosphere is subdued, with candlelight on the tables and a hint of pine drifting through the open terrace doors. On Christmas Eve there is a four‑course menu that blends classic Mallorcan and Mediterranean flavours: think baked cod tartlets with aioli, confit pork shoulder with herbs from the mountains, and a surprising dessert pairing of almonds and oranges. Portions are moderate, so there's room for a second helping — or a small digestif afterwards. On Christmas Day guests are often offered a choice between lunch and dinner; families with children receive reduced prices and there are child‑friendly options that go beyond fries. The restaurant also focuses on local producers: nearby olive oil, cheese from Mallorca's pastures and seasonal vegetables. Prices and times vary year to year, but expect fixed menus from around €130–150 for adults; drinks may be charged separately except in special holiday packages. My tip: reserve early if you want a window seat — the view over the Tramuntana is especially beautiful in the late afternoon light. A small personal note: on colder evenings a seat inside near the fireplace is worth it. You eat more slowly, talk more, and it really feels like a celebration.

New Year's Eve at Son Net is, in a way, the grand theatre of the festive season. The 2025 theme: Great Gatsby — much glamour, suits and sequin dresses, but without rigid formality. The evening follows a classic sequence: welcome cocktail, festive menu with wine pairing, live music and then the communal countdown to midnight with the traditional grapes (a Spanish custom playfully observed here). An open bar area and small midnight snacks complete the night. I once attended such a gala and especially liked that the mood was both celebratory and relaxed. There is usually a small show programme, but not overproduced — more live jazz or a band reinterpreting familiar songs. Dress code tip: smart elegant — guests embrace the theme, but you won't feel out of place in classic chic. There are often reduced children's prices and a dedicated menu so little ones don't have to stay up until three a.m. Organisationally, note that New Year's often requires prepayment and has specific cancellation terms. Gala‑dinner tickets are limited; many guests book the package with a room so they don't have to drive home late. If you stay in the mountains the return is warm, quiet and usually quick — a distant muffled firework, a glass of Champagne in hand and the new year begins gently and well.

The New Year's brunch at Son Net is something I almost consider ritualised: no rush, no early rising, just a slow start to the first day of the year. Typically there are abundant buffets, hot stations (egg dishes, small roasts), cold selections (smoked salmon, cold cuts) and sweet corners with Mallorcan ensaimadas or almond cake. Often there is a live station for freshly made crêpes or omelettes, which keeps things personal and fresh. The brunch is usually priced separately, and sometimes drinks are included depending on the package. Tip: allow an extra half to a whole hour; the atmosphere is relaxed, conversations linger and people happily stay seated. For staying guests the brunch is a relaxed way to sort luggage before continuing to explore the island. Practical details: prices usually include 10% VAT; be cautious with cancellation conditions — during the holidays different rules may apply. The hotel is located in Puigpunyent, address Castillo Son Net s/n; arriving by car is the most practical option and parking is available on site. Book by phone early — I would do so by November if you plan to stay over Christmas or New Year. The reception can answer questions and the hotel's website shows current menus and conditions.