In this part Chris Coplans looks at relaxing holidays in Majorca. Read Emily Bamber on active holidays in part one.
The interior of Majorca is a world away from the island’s sun, sea and sand image.
The bucolic landscape is dotted with fincas and farmhouses and the small villages and towns retain much of their Majorcan charm and ambiance.
Some clients are wary of committing to an inland property for fear of getting bored. Rest assured there is enough to keep most guests occupied on the property, and plenty of relaxing options for those who want to venture further afield.
A visit to the Bodegas Macia Batle, for example, confirms how far the Majorcan wine industry has come from the old grape-stomping days. A guided tour starts at €12.
Felanitx, the nearest town to our farmhouse, has one of the island’s best markets, held every Sunday morning. Ceramics and pottery are much sought after in Felanitx, as is sobrassada de porc negre, a black pork sausage.
The town, like many in Majorca, hosts an annual festival. The Sant Joan Pelós, on June 24, includes a man dressed in sheepskins portraying John the Baptist.
A few miles south of Felanitx are the ruins of the Castell de Santueri, originally built by the Moors. Also nearby is the beautiful Carriitxo, a tiny hamlet tucked away in the countryside.
Northeast of the town are the impressive Caves of Drac and, if the countryside becomes too much, the coast is never far away. Cala d’Or and its sister bays of Cala Figuera and Cala Llonga are a short drive from Felanitx.
This is one of the most attractive parts of the Majorca coastline and, although it is fairly developed, on the whole it is relatively low-key. Cala d’Or has a swish marina with plenty of boat-based activities on offer.
Foodies are well catered for in Majorca. Restaurateurs are inventive and, of course, the produce is local. Two excellent choices are the Rapa Nui restaurant in Cas Concos and Bona Taula in Calonge, where guests can dine in a beautiful courtyard.
The wide range of farmhouses will suit everyone from large families to groups of friends, and with prices starting from £425 per week for a two-bedroom farmhouse, they will even suit the budgets of couples and smaller families.
Other ways to relax in Majorca
Balloon ride: One of the most relaxing ways to start the day is to rise above it all in a hot air balloon. Views of the island are amazing. Prices from €150 per person and charters from €700.
Post-pony massage: After a gentle trot out into the countryside, visitors can indulge in a number of massages, ideal for those who suffer a touch of sore bum syndrome while in the saddle. Prices start from €20 for an hour’s excursion and massages from €70.
The perfect paella: Clients can learn how to become a ‘pillar of paella’ by arranging for a local chef to prepare a meal in their farmhouse. The paella costs €90, plus the cost of ingredients.
Activities can be pre-booked with Mallorca Farmhouses or in resort through Balearic Discovery on +34 971 87 53 95.
Hotel check
Finca Son Rito, Felantix, Majorca
Finca Son Rito is country estate a few miles outside Felanitx. The original part of the farmhouse dates back 400 years but the amenities are definitely 21st century. The property is part of Majorca Farmhouse’s Exclusive Collection.
The villa offers air conditioning, satellite TV, DVD player and a fitted kitchen with all mod cons blended perfectly with oak doors and beams, and traditional tiles. The farmhouse sleeps up to 16. There is a recently upgraded annexe which makes an ideal sleeping area for teens.
There is a large pool and an open-sided casita. With its own music system, kitchen area, barbecue, shower and covered poolside dining area, it is perfect for summer living. Around the pool are plump, reclining sun loungers.
The substantial hamper included all the essentials and enough food to start the holiday.
Facilities: Eight bedrooms, patio, garden with pool and summer house. PlayStation 2 and car hire.
Verdict: 5 / 5
Get there: Palma airport is 45 minutes’ drive away.
Sample package: Seven nights at the Finca Son Rito leads in at £1,595 in March rising to £4,295 per week in July and August, booking through Majorca Farmhouses. Prices include car hire.
