Biniarroca Hotel

Tucked away down a typical stone-wall lined road and surrounded by lush greenery, the Biniarroca Hotel immediately imparts a marvelous sense of bucolic seclusion. Once a dairy and vegetable farm dating from the 18th century, it was converted into a rural retreat over a period of 20 years by former London fashion designer Sheelagh Ratliff. And it really does feel like a genuine slice of rustic calm, with magenta bougainvillea climbing whitewashed walls, and tranquil gardens brimming with well-tended flora and soaring palm trees. Inside, much of the original farmhouse aspects of the property have been preserved, with terra-cotta tile flooring, exposed ceiling beams, and green shuttered windows. A child-free, adults-only environment just adds to the atmosphere of hushed serenity, where guests are typically younger to middle-aged couples hailing from the British Isles. 

The Biniarroca Hotel is located in the south-eastern corner of the island of Minorca, mostly surrounded by pretty countryside and just under a mile from the picturesque streets of Sant Lluís village. At just 10 minutes by car, the capital Mahón and its historical attractions and huge harbor are within easy reach. There are also a handful of ancient Talayotic archeological sites in the surrounding area, and the Bodegas Binifadet winery is a 14-minute walk away. The nearest beaches can be found a 10- to 15-minute drive away on the southern coast. The hotel is also very well positioned for Minorca Airport, which is about a 15-minute drive. Note that an industrial estate is located half a mile west of the property, comprising mostly warehouses, although it's not within eyeshot of the grounds. 

This boutique-size hotel has just 18 rooms and suites, each of which is individually styled with a homey, rustic vibe that combines the likes of terra-cotta tiling, exposed beams, and knotty-pine furniture. It's a traditional look that suits the property, although some may find it leaning toward dated. Most of the standard-level rooms are located in the old farmhouse, some of which open to balconies or terraces. Superior rooms and suites are set in low-rise buildings (the old stables) extending to patios with loungers and direct garden access. Throughout all 18 rooms, amenities are pretty basic, covering small flat-screen TVs, key-operated safes, and free bottled water. Air conditioning/heating units also come as standard, as does free Wi-Fi, which is reliable but not particularly speedy. While these amenities are certainly serviceable, they don't meet the four-star status the hotel advertises. Bathrooms also tend toward the rough and rustic, with exposed stone walls and terra-cotta flooring; all are kitted out with shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and decent toiletries, plus suites add separate walk-in showers.

It's all about relaxing surrounded by nature at the Biniarroca Hotel, and public spaces offer plenty of room to do it. Most guests choose to lounge by one of the hotel's two aquamarine mosaic-lined swimming pools, one of which is long enough for a swim, while the other is more for cooling off. There's certainly no shortage of comfy loungers, and the larger pool also offers hammocks and a poolside cafe-terrace. Fitness facilities, however, are lacking, although the hotel will arrange for nature excursions, share bike routes, or organize a yoga class (for a fee).  Spa features are limited to a single treatment room where guests can enjoy a massage.

Breakfast is always included in the rate, and comprises a continental spread of pastries, cereal, cold cuts, cheese, and fresh fruit, most of it locally sourced. Tea and coffee is made to order, and hot items such as eggs and bacon are available on request (for an extra charge). Lunch is served by the pool or under a pergola on the front patio, offering a reasonably priced a la carte menu that ranges from simple to more hearty fare. While food quality is generally excellent throughout, dinner is a real highlight providing a fine-dining experience from island ingredients (though dishes are on the pricey side). The bar also features a particularly impressive menu of gin and tonics, plus guests can relax with a drink and a book in the cozy salon lounge. 

Staff can assist with booking car rentals or arranging tour guides, and Wi-Fi throughout the property is free,