A long-time Mallorca resident after making the move from Barcelona, Bruno Fernandes is now chief concierge at the island’s reopened Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor and the person to ask for any and all insider itineraries on the blissful Balearic. e picked his well-informed brain for his best local tips for visitors.
A long-time resident of Mallorca — the traditional Spanish spelling for the island, which is also commonly referred as Majorca in English spelling — after making the move from Barcelona, Bruno Fernandes is now chief concierge at the island’s reopened Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor.
As the definitive expert for any and all insider itineraries on the blissful Balearic, we picked his well-informed brain for his best local tips for visitors.
How long have you lived in Mallorca?
I moved here in 2017, shortly after graduating in hotel management, drawn by the island’s beauty and the opportunity to start my career with an international brand. What was meant to be a first step quickly became home – Mallorca’s rhythm, landscapes, and people have a special charm that’s hard to leave behind. Being part of the reopening of Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor feels like a full-circle moment, blending my passion for hospitality with one of the most inspiring places in the Mediterranean.
What do you love about the island?
Mallorca has an extraordinary balance. You can go from the energy of Palma’s Old Town to the peace of a hidden cove in less than an hour. I love how every corner tells a different story: the Tramuntana Mountains, the scent of olive trees, and the sea breeze that reminds you that life here moves at the perfect pace.
What do newcomers to Mallorca usually ask you for?
Preferences often fluctuate with the season, but yacht escapades are certainly the most requested experience during the peak summer months. Mallorca truly offers it all. Guests can enjoy everything from sailing, diving, and flying over the island to hiking, cycling, golfing, exploring local markets, discovering hidden villages, and indulging in authentic cuisine and shopping. The island’s variety of experiences makes each day exciting.
What is the one thing everyone must do when visiting Mallorca?
Drive (or be driven) along the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The scenery is breathtaking, and every turn reveals a new view or a pretty village to explore.
What is your top local, secret spot?
A hike to a cove in Alconasser, just below one of my favourite restaurants, Bens d’Avall. The trail takes you through shaded paths and secluded houses, with bougainvillea cascading over Mediterranean-style stone walls. As you descend, the scent of pine and sea salt fills the air, and at the bottom, you’re rewarded with crystal clear waters and a hidden cove – plus little phone coverage, allowing you to fully disconnect.
At the time of publishing, Bens D'Avall closed for refurbishment and rebranding in March 2026, and is slated to reopen in 2027.
@bensdavall
Where are your favourite beaches?
Formentor is one of the few sandy beaches in the Tramuntana, with waters where the posidonia seagrass is carefully protected. Unlike many other beaches, pine trees replace the usual palms, giving it a unique yet distinctly local atmosphere. Additionally, you can enjoy excellent spots nearby, such as Llum i Sal, one of my top seaside restaurants offering an amazing Mediterranean menu.
Are there restaurants that visitors must try?
Visitors should definitely experience Shima and Maca de Castro, two of the island’s finest restaurants offering exceptional cuisine that showcases the best of Mallorca’s flavours. My favourite coffee spot is Can Joan de s’Aigo in Palma, a historic cafe known for its traditional Mallorcan pastries and rich coffee.
Where do you like to go for breakfast on your days off?
I love going to Celler La Parra, in Puerto Pollensa for an authentic Mallorquin breakfast called a variat. It’s a mid-morning, hearty dish served by local people in a restaurant that has been passed down through generations.
Is there a spot you would visit for a special birthday?
I would organise a full-day boat trip along Mallorca’s coastline, stopping at a coastal restaurant for a long lunch. The day would end with a toast while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.
Any must-see landmarks in Mallorca?
This is a place of unmissable local wonders. Among the most remarkable are Cathedral of Palma, the iconic Formentor Lighthouse, the historic Calvari Steps in Pollensa, the Drach Caves, and the charming old town of Alcudia, each offering a glimpse into the island’s history and beauty.
And the one place everyone must visit when they come to Spain, in general?
Visiting Madrid, the capital, is an essential experience where you can feel the heart of the country. It offers a mix of culture, history, cuisine, and lively atmosphere, giving you a taste of the experiences to be found throughout Spain.
Have any of your guests become real friends?
Yes, absolutely. Some guests return every year and, over time, those relationships naturally grow into genuine friendships. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
What is the strangest request you've ever had from a guest?
One of the most unique requests we’ve had was to elevate a service not for a person, but for a pet. We designed a VIP arrival with a red-carpet welcome and curated special entertainment throughout the stay. Because the dog had limited mobility, we adapted all exercises and treatments, including massages and pampering, to ensure our four-legged guest experienced the utmost luxury.
Can you tell us about the most challenging request you've received?
I’d say arranging a last-minute helicopter transfer – just 20 minutes’ notice – from a location near the resort to Menorca (approximately 70km away by sea). The goal was to ensure the guest arrived on time to catch a ferry to a private island. To guarantee everything went smoothly and on schedule, I personally escorted the guest by car to the helicopter take-off point. Thanks to careful coordination, we made it happen seamlessly.
Is there anything that one should never ask a concierge?
Anything that’s not ethical or legal, of course. Otherwise, there’s no such thing as a bad question. We’re here to make the impossible possible, within reason and with a smile.
Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor,
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