KCR Summer 2024 Magazine FINAL 1 - Flipbook - Page 52
Holidaying in Luxury: Son Bunyola Hotel
Located in the heart of Mallorca9s famous mountain landscape, the Son
Bunyola Hotel is a luxury 27-bedroom hotel which, despite its newness,
comes with a rich history.
Positioned on a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this elegant hotel is the
perfect getaway to recharge and refresh, ofering a relaxing and secluded
escape away from the real world. Just a 40-minute drive from the capital of Palma, transfers to this hideaway can be arranged on request.
This Sir Richard Branson Hotel opened in June 2023, after being transformed from a historic Finca and Tafona, dating back to around the 16th
century. The beauty of this history is still prominent, with unique characteristics such as the ancient olive press and several annexe buildings.
Sitting central to the estate, the castle-like hotel is surrounded by vines
and citrus fruit trees, as well as almond and olive groves.
The private and gated estate is accompanied by its standalone villas,
which are spread over its 1,300-acres: these comprise the four-bedroom
Sa Terra Rotja, the ove-bedroom SaPunta de S9Aguila and the four-bedroom Son Balagueret.
The Hotel
The rooms are inspired by the archival body and rustic aura of the
Finca and Tafona, making each hotel room distinct from the others. The
diverse range of rooms includes two showcase tower suites, which were
originally medieval defence towers, built in the 15th century.
Sir Richard Branson wanted to create a home feeling for his guests,
whilst preserving the history - and it shows. Each room exhibits high
ceilings with beams, wooden window shutters and themes of a warm
Mediterranean palette. The accommodations are accompanied by glorious sea or mountain views, and each supplies a complimentary mini
fridge, restocked daily with fresh juices.
The hotel provides a poolside bar next to its 28-metre heated pool and
jacuzzi, where you can submerge in warm turquoise water while admiring the shimmering coastal view. For added relaxation and, if you like,
sun-worship, there are poolside sunbeds.
The central courtyard is a cobbled sun trap accompanied by comfy
furniture, vibrant plants, colourful local ceramics and a small water
feature. The walkway provides access to the restaurant, where you can
choose between dining inside, or on the terrace.
Dine in Tranquility
The estate provides impressive views. As you dine in luxury on the
restaurant9s hotel terrace, you9re captivated by the surrounding greenery
and tranquil Mediterranean sparkling sea, which is illuminated by the
hot Mallorcan sun and given drama by the island9s Foradada - arresting
coastal rock formations.
Breakfast is served every morning from 8am-11am, with bufet style or
a variety of menu-based hot food, alongside freshly squeezed juices and
hot drinks. Throughout the day, fresh and elegantly presented threecourse meals are available.
The hotel encourages the use of fresh produce from local villages with
their farm-to-table approach. The estate also grows some of its own produce on site, such as tomatoes, olives and vegetables; it also has honey
from its beehives. The hotel is working on growing more produce,
contributing to the sustainability of the estate - indeed, vines have been
planted to grow local grape varieties, with a view to producing the estate9s own Malvasia wine as of 2026 - just as it did in the 19th century.
Activities
With its peaceful location, it9s unsurprising that Son Bunyola ofers
such a variety of leisure and sport activities. Choose from luxurious and
serenity-boosting spa treatments using local brand Gaia Natural Products, indulgent wine tastings, or art classes with local artist Marcelina
Etchegaray.
For more active relaxation, complimentary yoga sessions are provided
during the week,
overlooking the mountain terrain, where the fresh breeze tickles the
olive groves and trees.
For those seeking adrenaline, hikes and cycling trails through the
Tramuntana mountains are an enjoyable challenge. Specialist mountain
bikes are available on request, in addition to a local guide to assist with
hikes and walks. Meanwhile, an on-site tennis court (and equipment) is
provided for sport lovers, as well as a gym.
For water babies, kayaking tours and paddleboarding are a great way
to explore the crystal waters, dramatic coast and hidden caves: these
excursions are available from the private beach, alongside sailing and
yachting trips from either Soller or Palma.
To explore Mallorca9s vibrant culture, a complimentary shuttle takes
guests to the weekend9s local markets. It also supplies trips to local
restaurants, promoting local dining.
In Conclusion
Check in to The Son Bunyola Hotel to unwind, soak in the sun and
explore local history and culture. Its beautiful setting and luxurious
amenities ofer experiences and activities to leave you feeling not only
personally rejuvenated, but also connected with the Spanish island9s
breathtaking surroundings.
If you9re looking for a place to escape from the world, this secluded
haven, encompassed by mountains, is the place to go.
Jess Hipgrave
