Did you know? Rafael Nadal's first hotel will open this summer

ZEL? Is it the name of a new tennis equipment manufacturer? No, this is the new hotel brand that Rafael Nadal is launching in association with the Spanish tourism giant, Meliá Hotels International. And the first hotel will be inaugurated in a few weeks, in July, in Palmanova, west of his native island of Mallorca. In this popular seaside resort, the property, which celebrates the Mediterranean art of living, will offer unparalleled views of the island, with a white sandy beach of more than a kilometer and the majestic mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana as a backdrop.

To discover

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But what prompted the champion to 22 Grand Slam titles but forfeit for Roland-Garros this year to embark on this project, far from his clay garden? Rafa Nadal says he got into hospitality because of his love for Mallorca, as well as his "desire to share with others the pleasures of Mediterranean life".

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Diversify your activities

The world tennis icon and native of the island explains: "Whether it's sailing, an activity that I particularly like in the Mediterranean; convivial meals in a beach bar or beach club; or moments of relaxation with friends and family. That's what matters most to me, that's all I wanted to convey with ZEL, and I think we did it." This involvement in the hotel industry allows it to diversify its activities by remaining faithful to its roots and contributing to the development of tourism and the local economy of Mallorca.

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A lively and playful Mediterranean house

Zel, a new concept with a Mediterranean aesthetic based on outdoor living. Press photo

The design of the 165-room hotel is both modern and warm, with a central patio that connects the different areas. Inspired by the Mediterranean passion for outdoor living, ZEL Mallorca adopts a biophilic approach promoting reconnection with nature. A way to reduce stress and anxiety, promote recovery and improve well-being. Quite a program.

The rooms have been designed with colours, textures and shapes that evoke the natural world, creating a peaceful and thought-provoking atmosphere. The hotel also offers 21 suites and junior suites with stunning sea views. In addition to the white sandy beach, ZEL Mallorca has two great swimming pools.

The very first Beso Beach is located on the largest of the Balearic Islands, by the sea, with its tables directly in the sand. Press photo

On the table side, we find the best of Spanish gastronomy with the opening of the first Beso Beach in Mallorca, already established in Formentera, Ibiza, Sitges and Estepona. With its tables directly in the sand, the beach club of Zel Mallorca becomes
a new festive destination on the island.

On the menu, you will find Carabinero shrimp rice, txuletón de vaca vieja bilbaína (sirloin steak), or lobster tails... At Syra Coffee, guests can enjoy eco-friendly coffee from responsible crops and small family farms.

A complete offer of sports training and well-being

In addition to the white sandy beach, ZEL Mallorca has two great swimming pools. Press photo

For sports and wellness enthusiasts, the hotel will offer a wide range of facilities and activities. Necessarily. Professional trainers are available to help clients create their own programs. Zel Mallorca has a large gym with state-of-the-art equipment. Or enjoy concerts, excursions, water sports, scuba diving, and bike paths. And for relaxation, the hotel's spa offers three treatment rooms, two jacuzzis, a steam room and sauna, as well as meditation areas. From 265 euros per night.

Rafael Nadal is not the first internationally renowned top athlete to take an interest in hospitality. In recent history, Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo entered into a partnership with the Portuguese hotel group Pestana in 2016 around the CR7 brand. His rival, the Argentine world champion Lionel Messi is the owner of the MiM Hotels chain and announced in January 2022 a location on the Costa del Sol, Spain.

After this first opening, Meliá Hotels International and Rafael Nadal are already planning 20 more within 5 years, capitalizing on the markets already occupied by the Spanish hotel group in Europe, America, the Middle East and Asia.

Zel Mallorca, Carrer Duc Estremera, 16, 07181 Calvià, Illes Balears, Spain. Tel: +34 971 68 01 50.