Son Gener

Charming-chic finca and spa set within peaceful organic gardens and rolling hills, close to unspoilt beaches and Arta

Leave Palma in search of peace, space and natural serenity and you need look no further than Son Gener. Just an hour away on the eastern side of the island, this elegant 18th-century finca with 10 suites lies on the brow of a hill, not far from the ancient town of Arta. Set in beautiful Mediterranean gardens beside orchards and olive groves, with views to the distant sea, its tranquility extends inside and out thanks to the imagination of its Mallorcan architect-owner, Toni Esteva, and it is popular with older German and English couples.

Walk inside and grooved limestone floors sweep underfoot giving the impression of cool drifting snow. Expect large, light rooms, soothing creamy colours, modern minimalist artworks, a Baby Grand and furnishings mixed with occasional antiques and scatterings of fascinating coffee-table books. Walk out to their spa and pool and you'll pass their organic gardens. No prizes for guessing where the food comes from. Up in the hills, peace at last save for occasional goat bells jingling. You won't beat Son Gener for its uncluttered understated charm and calm. Delightful.

Highs

• Excellent breakfasts served on the lovely terrace in warm weather, and available until 12pm so great for sleepyheads
• Exceptional interiors - soothing, subtle, spacious - and gorgeous, bedrooms with antique furniture, private terraces and huge bathrooms
• Excellent staff led by charming manager Aina. Everyone was friendly, efficient and kind
• Small, stylish spa with indoor and outdoor swimming pools
• Just a short drive to unspoilt beaches and several golf courses

Lows

• It's not a cheap place to stay and we felt dinner was overpriced. However it's a place worth splurging on for its elegance, ultra-peaceful setting and the 'at home' feel
• Some rooms are open-plan, with their bathroom integrated into the bedroom, separated by a low wall. Some won't like this, though your toilet is in a walled cubicle
• Slightly off-the-beaten-track location - you'll need a hire car, especially to dine out on Tuesdays when the restaurant is closed
• Staff are charming but don't expect them to be running around you like in some big hotels - you get more of a relaxed homely feel here
• Not the place for hectic nightlife - you're in the coutryside and there's no bar, though you can order drinks