The sunny shores of Mallorca, one of the Balearic Islands located 120 km offshore from Barcelona, are home to a multitude of hotels catering to various tastes and preferences. On my first visit to the island, I sought advice from someone who had visited countless times, seeking a unique, luxurious, and culturally rooted experience. The immediate response was, "Son Brull is what you're looking for." After a memorable first visit, just over a year later, my partner and I returned to this Spanish refuge, eager to immerse ourselves in its tranquil ambiance. Son Brull Rural Sanctuary, situated outside the town of Pollenca, boasts an impressive history dating back to 1762 when it was built as a monastery. Over the years, the property has undergone masterful renovations, transforming it into a luxurious hotel that effortlessly sets the benchmark for a remarkable Mallorcan stay. The welcome drink, a refreshing medley of lemon, gin, and honey all sourced from the farm, is a delightful gesture that immediately puts guests at ease. Our villa, one of four meticulously carved into the earth, was nothing short of impressive. Each villa boasts two en-suite bedrooms, a spacious lounge, and dining area, making it the perfect retreat for those seeking an authentic Mallorcan experience. Every guest is welcomed with Cava, a platter of fruit, and a bowl of nuts all from the farm. A clever addition to the villas is the small panel in the lounge and bedroom that controls the blinds, lights, fireplaces, and air conditioning. Outside, our villa offered ample space for retreat, with a patio's sluiced concrete roof allowing light to pour in and creepers to cling to it. The grass lawn provided a serene setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration, while the refreshing pool with loungers and umbrellas beckoned us to relax and soak up the sun. The beautifully integrated bathroom, featuring a double spa bath and amenities from renowned brands like Molton Brown and Relais & Chateaux, was truly a sanctuary. Located just outside Pollenca, Son Brull Rural Sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat from the island's bustling towns and beaches. The surrounding countryside consists of peaceful farmlands and mountains, providing a serene backdrop for our stay. With its quieter location, guests can return to the hotel after days spent exploring, seeking sanctuary in its tranquil ambiance. Guests have access to explore the entire working farm, where they can spot donkeys and goats grazing in the fields, hear geese and roosters in the distance, watch bees buzzing to and from their hives, and sample fresh citrus from the orchards. A lovely walking circuit that encompasses part of the farm is also available, offering a glimpse into the hotel's agricultural heritage. For those seeking fitness inspiration, the hotel's large pool and air-conditioned gym overlooking the orchard provide ample opportunities for exercise. A short walk away, the tennis court surrounded by olive trees offers a serene setting for a game or two. Moreover, cycling is popular on Mallorca, and Son Brull offers bike storage and provides bikes for guests who have not brought their own. One of the standout features of Son Brull Rural Sanctuary is its spa, tucked away below the main building. The facilities on offer include an indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room, plunge pool, relaxation areas, and a host of wellness treatments. Guests can access all these facilities throughout the day, creating a sense of tranquility and rejuvenation. Casual dining is available during the day from the Bistro (poolside or terraced dining), while fine dining is provided at 365 Restaurant, named after the number of windows and doors in the original hotel building. Breakfast, served in all locations, has been my favorite so far – every morning I order the "Full Mallorquín": an olive oil fried egg, local Llangonissa and Botifarró sausages, and then Mallorcan bread topped with tomato and olives from the farm. Son Brull Rural Sanctuary also boasts its own branded Cava, which all guests receive on ice as a welcome gift. The Cava Son Brull Brut Nature is made from a blend of Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada varieties, bottle-fermented using the same method as Champagne. Bottles can be taken home for £15. For those with refined palates, seeking out the prized Reserve option of the bubbly is worth it. Thoughtful gestures abound at Son Brull Rural Sanctuary, from branded welcome gifts like hats, caps, and quadrilles to a boutique store at reception offering products used in the hotel and other branded paraphernalia and clothes, all proudly made on the island. The fact that most guests are return visitors speaks volumes about the hotel's reputation for exceptional service. Prices at Son Brull Rural Sanctuary vary seasonally, ranging from £590 to £790 for rooms and suites, with villas sleeping up to five costing £1,500. These prices include daily breakfast and servicing. Optional extra experiences, including a welcome with the Son Brull bees, guided Serra de Tramuntana hike, an hour tasting of Son Brull wines and olive oil, and airport transfers, are available when booking. The standout feature of Son Brull Rural Sanctuary is its hyper-local focus, firmly celebrating Mallorcan culture. In an era where cut-and-paste hotels dominate the scene, this is a breath of fresh air for travelers seeking an authentically local experience. Moreover, Son Brull is family-owned and operated, with all staff coming from the island, contributing to a thoroughly genuine experience that is rare to find. In conclusion, Son Brull Rural Sanctuary offers the perfect experience for discerning travelers seeking a luxury destination with a strong focus on local culture. With its exceptional service, stunning villas, and tranquil ambiance, this Relais & Chateaux property delivers an unforgettable slice of Mallorcan paradise.
