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March 31 2020
With lush mountains, hidden coves, culinary experiences and golden sandy beaches, The Balearics continue to be the main destination for travellers to Spain. Here is the inside scoop on just a few of our favourite authentic, hidden gems in the Balearics, and there’s not even a mention of the decadent parties in Ibiza!
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Published: March 31 2020
According to a CEIC Report in December 2019, Spain heralded a total of 12,559 hotels so it comes as no surprise that the choice can be overwhelming when booking a business or leisure trip there! The Balearics, a scattering of islands off the east coast of Spain, are still the main destination for foreigners, with the highest hotel occupancy at 80.73% in the first nine months of 2019. Lush mountains, hidden coves, culinary experiences and golden sandy beaches – this hippy haven from the 1960s has remained a firm favourite for travellers from all around the world. Summer stretches from mid-May to October, and even the winter months on the archipelago are perfect for a retreat, with less crowds and an incredibly pleasant daily climate. The big resorts and vibrant nightlife are still very much in play, but the rich combination of cultures and charming hotels mean it is not hard to get off the beaten track. Here is the inside scoop on just a few of our favourite authentic, hidden gems in the Balearics, and there’s not even a mention of the decadent party scene!
1. Hotel Sant Francesc
A former Mallorcan mansion built in 1860, this luxury 5 star hotel is located on one of Palma’s most iconic squares, just a few metres from the beautiful Cathedral and Plaza Mayor. The perfect base for exploring Palma!
Opening later this year, Can Ferrereta (pictured below) is the latest boutique hotel opening from the team behind Hotel Sant Francesc. Located in the rural Mallorcan town of Santanyí, it’s the perfect weekend getaway. Features 31 rooms and suites plus a gym and hammam spa. Prices from £300 per night in a Superior Room.
2. Cap Rocat
Tucked away in a quiet area of Palma Bay, Cap Rocat was once a fortress which has been beautifully restored into this luxury 5 star hotel. Understated, chic bedrooms and tranquil spaces make this the perfect Majorcan bolthole.
Luxurious and arresting Cap Rocat, formerly a 19th-century military fortress, has been imaginatively transformed into an exceptional boutique hotel with a sumptuous spa, two pools and two restaurants. Close to rugged coastline and woodlands overlooking Palma Bay, it offers complete privacy. With 24 rooms including 22 suites, this is a dramatic setting in a peaceful pocket of Palma bay. Prices from £252 per night.
We love: The Suite del Mar sits exclusively aside from the hotel’s other rooms with its own private pool and is just steps away from the private beach, surrounded by a fragrant herbal garden. You couldn’t hide away much more than that!
3. Castell Son Claret
Only 30 minutes from Palma city centre, this ‘Leading Hotel of the World’ is located within 326 acres of unspoiled countryside at the foot of the UNESCO-protected Tramuntana mountains. The former 19th century castle was meticulously renovated in 2013, and now offers 41 contemporary rooms and suites, many with terraces, a garden or private pool. The hotel is also home to Zaranda, the only two-star Michelin restaurant in the Balearics, where diners have a direct view into the kitchen of the chefs at work. Prices from £252 per night in a Standard Double.
Not to be missed: It’s recommended you try the famous ‘Black Egg’ at Zaranda, a creation which has a reputation way beyond the island!
1. Menorca Experimental
Opened in August 2019, this boutique hotel and agroturismo has 34 rooms and 9 private villas. Reborn from a 19th century finca on 30 hectares of land, enjoy access to a secluded pebble beach and activities include hiking, horse-riding, pottery, painting and yoga. On-site dining emphasizes the abundant fresh and seasonal produce from the area, much of it from the hotel’s own garden. Playa Son Bou is only ten minutes away if you can bear to leave this tranquil getaway! Prices from £180 per night with a special 20% Spring discount.
Inside tip: Embrace dining with other guests at the 30-person communal table - perfect for sociable, lazy evenings!
2. Torralbenc
Torralbenc offers a restorative wine and Balearic culinary experience, set within 70 acres of farmland and vineyards. Take advantage of the hotel’s Spring Detox offer including a two-night stay with breakfast and dinner, wellness treatments, evenings among the vineyards and healthy menus if you book before 29th May 2020. Prices from £195 per night.
Paradiso de los Pinos
The laid-back, secret little sister of Ibiza, Formentera is a short ferry-ride from Ibiza Town and is well worth the trip! The island is surrounded by beautiful sandy stretches of sand and if you’re feeling active, there’s plenty of options including trekking, windsurfing and kayaking. Stay at Paradiso de los Pinos, beautiful white-washed one and two bedroom apartments and bungalows in a quiet area in Es Migjorn. Prices from £175 per night.
Top tip: If you’re after the jet set crowd on this quiet island, head to Juan y Andrea, a lunch spot which is an institution on the island so book your table in advance.
If you are interested in booking any of these hotels, or would like to find out more about our holidays in the Balearics, call Go Bespoke on 020 8935 5779
Hanna joined Go Bespoke in February 2018 and has over 15 years’ experience working in Marketing & PR. She studied Modern Languages at University, and lived in Granada in Spain before working for a city-based tour operator and then at Orient Express. Hanna is our resident Spanish speaker, and also speaks French and a bit of Portuguese. She looks after all our social media and marketing collateral, including the website and anything visual that you might see!
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