Son Vell in Menorca is a hidden gem that offers a retreat into rural bliss. Comprised of a beautifully restored 18th-century manor house and surrounding traditional barns, this charming estate exudes timeless elegance. Nestled among landscaped gardens, citrus trees, and olive groves, guests can relax by the pool, go horseback riding through lush landscapes, savor fresh ingredients from the organic garden, and explore the sun-soaked beaches of Menorca’s southern coast.
With its prime location near the coast and the ancient walking route of Camí de Cavalls, Son Vell provides an idyllic getaway for those seeking tranquility and a touch of history. Moreover, the hotel’s commitment to sustainability, through the use of renewable resources and organic gardens, further enhances its appeal. At Son Vell, guests can truly experience the best that rural Menorca has to offer.
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Experience Rural Bliss at Son Vell in Menorca
Location
Hidden away in Menorca’s rippling countryside, Son Vell is a charming rural retreat comprised of a beautifully restored 18th-century manor house and traditional barns that surround it. As you weave your way closer to the estate, passing whitewashed villages and rolling hills, you’ll enter a world of timeless elegance and rural bliss. Walking between landscaped gardens, citrus trees, and olive groves, you’ll spend your days relaxing by the pool, horseback riding through lush and rocky landscapes, dining on the freshest ingredients from the hotel’s organic vegetable garden, and exploring the sun-soaked beaches of Menorca’s southern coast.
Hidden away in Menorca’s rippling countryside
Son Vell is tucked away in the beautiful countryside of Menorca, offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, whitewashed villages, and sweeping vistas, providing a picturesque backdrop for your stay.
Short stroll from the island’s breathtaking southern coast
The estate is conveniently located just a short stroll away from Menorca’s stunning southern coast. This means that guests have easy access to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and can spend their days sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the hidden coves that dot the coastline.
Quick 40-minute drive from the airport
Son Vell is a convenient 40-minute drive from Menorca Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers. After a long flight, guests can quickly reach the retreat and start their vacation without any hassle.
Ancient Camí de Cavalls walking route borders the estate
For those who enjoy hiking and walking, Son Vell is perfectly situated. The ancient Camí de Cavalls walking route borders the estate, allowing guests to explore the stunning countryside on foot. This historic trail takes you along the coast to hidden beaches, pine-scented forests, and rocky cliffs, providing a unique perspective of Menorca’s natural beauty.
20-minute drive to the picturesque port city of Cuitadella
If you’re looking to explore the local culture and history, the picturesque port city of Cuitadella is just a short 20-minute drive from Son Vell. With its honey-hued buildings and maze-like old quarter, Cuitadella offers a glimpse into Menorca’s rich history and architectural beauty.
Your room
After a meticulous and delicate restoration, Son Vell features traditional marés sandstone, crafted clay, wood, and original limestone. Each of the hotel’s spacious rooms and suites radiates rustic charm and is decorated with antique furniture, natural fabrics, contemporary art, and sculptures. Encircled by glorious gardens filled with native flowers and olive groves, you’ll happen across pockets of tranquillity at every turn. Architecturally reminiscent of the Venetian style, the main manor house suggests an elegant home of the nobility, or ‘casas del signore’, with vintage chandeliers and modern touches. If staying in one of the ‘boyeras’ (traditional barns), enjoy your own private terrace and extensive garden complete with Balinese beds and captivating views of the Menorcan countryside.
Meticulous and delicate restoration
At Son Vell, no detail has been overlooked in restoring the 18th-century manor house and traditional barns. The restoration process was carried out with meticulous care and attention to ensure that the original architectural features were preserved while bringing modern comforts to the rooms and suites.
Rooms and suites radiate rustic charm
The rooms and suites at Son Vell exude a rustic charm that perfectly complements the surrounding countryside. The use of traditional materials such as marés sandstone, crafted clay, wood, and limestone adds to the authentic feel of the accommodations.
Decorated with antique furniture and natural fabrics
To enhance the rustic charm, the rooms and suites are tastefully decorated with antique furniture and natural fabrics. This gives each space a warm and inviting atmosphere, where guests can relax and unwind in comfort.
Gardens filled with native flowers and olive groves
The gardens at Son Vell are a true delight, filled with native flowers and olive groves. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll be surrounded by the fragrant scent of blossoming flowers, creating a serene and peaceful ambiance.
Main manor house reminiscent of Venetian style
The main manor house at Son Vell is a beautiful example of Venetian architecture. With its vintage chandeliers and modern touches, it evokes the elegance and sophistication of a noble Venetian home. Guests staying in the manor house will feel transported to a different era, where luxury and refinement were paramount.
Why we like it
In between the hills and beaches of Son Vell, you can’t help but be filled with a sense of calm and wonder. Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993, in Menorca there is a fierce commitment to safeguard the island’s wild environment and historic architecture. And at Son Vell, you’re perfectly placed to experience them both. Whether you wish to explore the beautiful surroundings by horseback, boat, or on foot, Son Vell offers a little bit of everything. Complete with a swimming pool, massage room, yoga deck, and outdoor cinema, winding down just got that much easier. Beneath the sun, and beneath the stars.
Sense of calm and wonder
When you step foot into Son Vell, you’ll immediately feel a sense of calm and wonder envelop you. The tranquil surroundings and timeless elegance of the retreat create a serene atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Menorca is committed to preserving its natural environment and historic architecture. Son Vell offers guests the opportunity to experience this commitment firsthand, allowing them to immerse themselves in the island’s wild environment and learn about its rich cultural heritage.
Experience the wild environment and historic architecture
At Son Vell, guests can experience the best of Menorca’s wild environment and historic architecture. Whether it’s exploring the countryside on horseback, cruising along the coast in a boat, or taking leisurely walks to discover hidden beaches, there are endless opportunities to connect with nature and soak in the island’s beauty. Additionally, the nearby port city of Cuitadella offers a chance to delve into Menorca’s history and admire its stunning architecture.
Various activities available such as horseback riding and boating
For those seeking adventure, Son Vell offers a range of activities to suit every taste. Horseback riding through the lush and rocky landscapes is a popular choice, allowing guests to explore the countryside in a unique and exhilarating way. Boating is another option, allowing guests to discover secluded coves and pristine beaches along the coast.
Facilities include a swimming pool, massage room, yoga deck, and outdoor cinema
In addition to the natural beauty and activities, Son Vell boasts a range of facilities that further enhance the guest experience. A swimming pool provides a refreshing retreat on hot days, while a massage room offers relaxation and rejuvenation. A yoga deck is available for those seeking inner peace and balance, and an outdoor cinema allows for evening entertainment under the stars.
Sustainability
Son Vell is part of the Vestige Collection which has a focus on sustainability, showing respect for the natural environment as well as preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. This is done through using chemical-free dyes for room furnishings, employing renewable energy sources like solar power or geothermal systems, collecting rainwater, and nurturing organic gardens to supply their kitchens.
Part of the Vestige Collection with a focus on sustainability
As part of the Vestige Collection, Son Vell is committed to sustainable practices. The collection emphasizes the importance of respecting the natural environment and preserving cultural heritage. By staying at Son Vell, guests can actively support these efforts and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Uses chemical-free dyes for room furnishings
To minimize the environmental impact, Son Vell uses chemical-free dyes for its room furnishings. This ensures that the materials used are safe for both guests and the environment, while maintaining a high standard of comfort and luxury.
Employs renewable energy sources like solar power and geothermal systems
Son Vell is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint by utilizing renewable energy sources. Solar power and geothermal systems are employed to generate electricity and heat, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and promoting the use of clean, sustainable energy.
Collects rainwater for use
To conserve water, Son Vell collects rainwater for various uses throughout the estate. This not only helps to reduce water consumption but also ensures that water resources are used responsibly and efficiently.
Nurtures organic gardens to supply their kitchens
As part of its commitment to sustainable practices, Son Vell nurtures organic gardens to supply its kitchens. By growing their own produce, the retreat reduces the need for transportation and ensures that guests are served fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This supports the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint associated with food production and distribution.
In conclusion, Son Vell in Menorca is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. From its idyllic location in the countryside to its meticulously restored rooms and commitment to sustainability, the retreat provides a haven of tranquillity and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a chance to connect with nature, Son Vell has something to offer. By staying at Son Vell, guests can immerse themselves in the island’s rich history, explore its wild landscapes, and support sustainable practices. It truly is a destination that combines luxury, authenticity, and environmental responsibility.
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