Extended family escapes are a doddle at this beautiful Mallorcan house (sleeping 8-10) in the pretty village of Fornalutx. There’s something to keep everyone amused: a roof terrace with breathtaking views for the readers, a turquoise pool with loungers for the sun worshippers, a high-spec kitchen for the foodies, and more games, toys and books for the kids than you can wave a Wii remote at.
Inside, this family home has a vintage-meets-contemporary atmosphere. Slate, polished concrete and natural riverstone all sit alongside arty touches from the owner’s 15 years in Paris – think silk onion-bulb lampshades, purple velvet cushions and voile curtains.
Rooms: There are 5 bedrooms, 2 sitting rooms, an open-plan kitchen-diner and plenty of terrace space to spread out in. The Master Suite has a Balinese emperor-sized four-poster and, in the ensuite, a freestanding oval tub and a walk-in riverstone shower. Opposite is a small twin room with bunk beds and a basket full of toys. Upstairs are 2 large doubles (one of which can be converted into a twin) and another twin room. All have ensuite bathrooms with fluffy robes, slippers, hairdryers and organic toiletries.
Food: You can request catering or whip up your own feasts in the well-equipped kitchen. The welcome hamper contains everything you need to get started, including breakfast basics (tea, coffee, juice, bread, butter, bacon, eggs, jam, honey, cereals, yoghurt) alongside a whole cooked chicken, vegetables, rice, pasta and a yummy home-made cake. You can eat poolside, on the terrace, or inside around the oval mahogany table for 10. There’s a well-stocked shop in the village, as well as 3 bars, 2 cafés and 4 restaurants for times when you don’t fancy cooking.
Customer reviews: “A wonderful villa and magical location for our two weeks with extended family (ages ranging from 10 months to 87 years). Jenny was always available if needed, and incredibly generous with her time and spirit. We had to remind ourselves that this was her home, not ours, as she genuinely made us feel so at home. If there was one downside (and we’re struggling to find any), the smallest office room used by Jack was a bit tight for a 6ft 18-year- old rugby-playing lad, and the only room without air conditioning (although Jenny thoughtfully provided a fan). Remember to take a torch for the walk back after lazy nights in Fornalutx (especially good on Thursday nights when there’s live music in the square). We’ve been back 24 hours and miss it, miss it, miss it!”
Carol, United Kingdom (02.08.14)