Riva isn’t something one typically associates with Spain, but that could soon change.
The historic Italian shipyard, founded in 1842 by Pietro Riva and acquired by the Ferretti Group in 2000, has teamed up with Gran Meliá to open a new yachting hub on the sunny island of Mallorca.
The Riva Lounge is located inside the Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá. The five-star, adults-only hotel, one of several helmed by the Meliá Hotels International brand, occupies pride of place on the coast of Illetes, making it an ideal destination for Riva’s latest location.
The lounge, which is fittingly located in the hotel’s seafront garden, takes design cues from Riva’s iconic runabouts, naturally. The counter and tables are crafted from the rich mahogany that’s synonymous with Rivas, while the seating evokes the upholstery on the legendary speedboats. (Some of the furniture, such as the Aquarama chairs, can be purchased via the Riva boutique.) The space is also adorned with books, model yachts, and other Riva-themed memorabilia.
The lounge.
Riva
Beyond elegant styling, the lounge offers all-day dining both indoors and outdoors. The restaurant aims to spotlight the Mediterranean, serving up fresh local seafood and dishes that reflect Mallorcan cuisine. Similarly, the drinks feature authentic flavors of the region, with signature cocktails showcasing ingredients such as fresh Sóller oranges and Italian amaretto.
The lounge.
Riva
Perhaps most importantly, guests will be able to take a Rivamare for a spin. The zippy 800 hp motorboat will be available to rent for a full or half day, with both hotel guests and visitors able to enjoy private jaunts. Yachters can use the sleek 39-footer to explore the idyllic coves of Mallorca, such as those along the cliffs of the Sierra de Tramuntana. Alternatively, guests could head to Palma for lunch at Hotel Victoria, Gran Meliá, or take a romantic sunset cruise. Joyrides are on the table, too, with the Rivamare capable of reaching 40 knots at full tilt.
Riva has so far opened outposts in Monaco, Venice, Saudi Arabia, Paris, and, of course, Italy, but this marks the yard’s first venture in Spain.
Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá has a total of 60 rooms and 77 suites. The top-tier Royal Suite Sea View costs in the ballpark of $930 per night.
Authors
Credit: robbreport.com
