Paradise Awaits. Son Bunyola, Mallorca’s Most Exclusive Hideway

Mallorca has always been a destination of choice for the elite, who unfailingly open their villas every spring. They are lured by its romantic coastline, dramatic mountainscapes, the charm of its historical sites, the idyllic bays with water as clear as gin, and its terracotta-roofed villages perched on hilltops. The island’s landscapes and places have also inspired generations of artists, writers, poets, and musicians. From Chopin and George Sand to DH Lawrence, Robert Graves, Joan Miró, and Anaïs Nin, to name a few. Even Mick Jagger found inspiration in Mallorca back in the 1980s.

Son Bunyola, Mallorca’s Most Exclusive Hideaway

Sir Richard Branson’s love affair with Mallorca stretches back almost 60 years. Mallorca is also where, back in 1987,  he developed his very first hotel, La Residencia, turning a ruin into one of the world’s most prestigious hotels, now part of the Belmond Group.

Fast-forward to 2023, and Sir Branson returns to the Balearic island with a new, long-cherished dream come true: a sustainably minded hideaway comprising a 27-key luxury hotel located at the heart of the estate, three individual villas: Sa Terra Rotja, Son Balagueret, and Sa Punta de S’Aguila, and the intent to revive the area’s ecosystem.

Although the oldest parts of the buildings date back to the 13th century, the site is believed to have been inhabited for thousands of years. Stones scattered around the area date back to both the Bronze Age (approximately 1,300 BC) and the Iron Age (approximately 850 BC). This rich historical tapestry adds a unique allure to the Son Bunyola Estate.

The restoration of the new Son Bunyola Hotel was a labor of love, managed by the local architect studio Gras Architects. The Mallorcan-based interior designer Rialto Living brought the interior to life. The heritage of the historic building was central to the restoration project.

The original towers in the main house have been transformed into two Tower Suites, showcasing vineyard views and the mountains beyond. The former olive press has become Sa Tafona restaurant, and the historic terrace is now home to the pool, all retaining their original features.

Located in a beautiful UNESCO world heritage site of the Tramuntana mountains in Mallorca, the Son Bunyola Estate offers a small luxury hotel and three individual secluded villas set across a stunning 1,300-acre private estate boasting three miles of unrivaled sweeping views of the Mediterranean coastline.

Each villa, built in traditional Mallorcan style, can accommodate up to eight or ten guests. The villas are located near the edge of the estate or along the dramatic coastline. They offer panoramic views of the sea and the mountains, a private heated swimming pool, and plenty of space on the terrace for sunbathing and relaxation.

The villas can be booked for seven nights from March to November and on request for stays over Christmas, New Year, or out-of-season. Villa guests benefit from a dedicated team of hosts, an on-site chef, and access to the hotel’s two restaurants.

Guests are drawn to Son Bunyola for its unparalleled location and the tranquility of its unspoiled surroundings. With its own private stretch of coastline, the estate’s unique position offers a rare opportunity to experience both the mountains and the beach in one luxurious setting, ensuring a stay filled with relaxation and peace.

The hotel has two restaurants – a Mediterranean restaurant, a tapas restaurant, and several outdoor dining terraces – all led by newly appointed and renowned Executive Chef Samuel G. Galdón. A comprehensive wellness program complementing the hotel’s natural surroundings boasts outdoor yoga sessions within the estate, historical walks around the highly protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, two treatment rooms, and an impressive 28-meter swimming pool with sweeping views across the famous Foradada and surrounding countryside.

Many activities are available at the hotel and the villas, from yoga and fitness with a personal trainer to walks of varying levels with or without a local guide. Kayaking tours on the island’s tranquil crystal-clear waters are available from the private beach, offering a great way to explore Mallorca’s stunning coast and many hidden caves.

Those looking for more of an active challenge can explore the many spectacular hiking and cycling trails through the Tramuntana mountains right on their doorstep without needing to step outside the 1,300-acre Estate—specialist mountain bikes are available on request.

Guests can also hone their games on the on-site tennis and pickleball court (racquets and balls provided) or venture further to one of over 20 golf courses on the island, with the team on hand to assist with recommendations and green reservations.

Preserving the history of the estate and maintaining its beautiful surroundings, as well as operating sustainably and conserving energy, is paramount and remains central to how the estate is run on a daily basis.

Read also: Inside One Of Mallorca’s Most Desirable Estates