Hotel Ses Sucreres

The understated whitewashed facade of the Hotel Ses Sucreres blends seamlessly into its traditional residential surroundings, with only its discreet signage announcing its presence. Inside, however, this tiny property is brimming with quirky character, combining vintage artwork and restored retro furnishings with original 19th-century architectural features. Dating from 1844, this little hotel was opened in 2010 by French husband-and-wife team (Stephanie and Ignasi) who have poured their creative energies into making it somewhere rather special to stay. As a result, the atmosphere is intimate, homey, and welcoming and with a playful bohemian sense of style that adds to the relaxed vibe. It got its sugary name from a previous incarnation as a grocery store, where two women would make candy for local children. The hotel also acts as a lively hub for local cultural events, hosting regular exhibitions and small plays, often in the cute and secluded walled garden terrace. Guests are a mix of Spanish, British, French and other Europeans, and they're mostly couples looking for an authentic Minorcan experience away from the sprawling coastal resorts. Note that the property is spread over two floors, with no elevator.

Hotel Ses Sucreres is tucked away down a cobbled lane in the sleepy town of Ferreries, situated in the middle of the island of Minorca. There's not a great deal to do in the town beyond wandering its picturesque streets and having a bite in one of a handful of restaurants and tapas. Regular festivals and a lively weekly food market make for a fun diversion. The surrounding area has a lovely scenic landscape and natural gorges that can be explored on foot, and it's only a 10-minute drive to the pretty bay of Cala Galdana. Its central location in fact makes it perfect as a base for exploring every corner of the island, with both the north and south coasts a short drive, and around half an hour to either Mahon or Ciutadella. Menorca Airport is a 24-minute drive to the east of the island.

The hotel has just six rooms, each individually decorated in an understated but stylish mixture of eclectic furniture and original artwork. Details like vintage maps, needlepoint bed-runners, and little wooden benches add plenty of charm. All rooms are spacious with high ceilings and loads of natural light, giving a breezy, coastal vibe. Traditional terra-cotta tile floors and wooden beams also point to the building's historic roots. Though there are no balconies or terraces, some upper-level rooms do offer lovely views out to the surrounding hills.

Looks aside, in-room amenities are very limited -- they're more in line with a bed-and-breakfast than a chain hotel. There are no coffeemakers or kettles, safes, or minibars. TVs are also lacking, although Wi-Fi is free and fast in all rooms and loaner iPads are available. There's no air-conditioning either, but ceiling fans do provide a bit of cooling. Most bathrooms have walk-in showers (one Superior Double has a roll-top bathtub), heated towel rails, hairdryers, and eco-friendly organic toiletries. 

As you'd expect from this type of small-scale boutique property, there's not much in the way of typical hotel facilities. But breakfast is a standout with fresh and locally sourced buffet items like Menorcan meats and cheeses, pastries, and bread; organic freshly squeezed juice and scrambled eggs are available for an extra charge. Weather permitting, breakfast can be enjoyed in the hotel's pretty walled garden. Guests have use of a large fridge, plus there's an honor bar with local wine, and tea, espresso coffee, and snacks available throughout the day. Loaner beach umbrellas can be borrowed freely, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, too. Two electric bicycles are available to rent, plus there's space for parking regular bikes. Along with hosting regular cultural events, the hotel puts on summer cinema nights in the outdoor terrace.