Each turn along the driveway snaking up towards Es Racó d’Artà – passing swathes of vineyards, citrus orchards, and olive groves – adds to an increasing sense of remoteness. We’re passing through its vast estate, 220 hectares of forest and farmland nestled in craggy valley surrounds in Mallorca's far eastern corner. For the final stretch we’re whisked to reception by golf cart and, upon stepping inside, met with an almost transcendental sense of Zen-like calm.
With roots trailing back to the Moors, these centuries-old stone buildings have been transformed by distinguished Mallorcan architect Toni Esteva, using his signature eye for natural materials and earthy tones. The result is a masterwork of understated luxury. All 31 suites and casitas (including a pair of villas for 4-7) exude a timeless sense of rustic minimalism. With its otherworldly spa, daily yoga and mediation sessions, and programme of outdoor activities, it appeals to those seeking silence, reflection and communion with nature. A genuine commitment to sustainability is at the heart of everything they do, and the restaurant’s kitchen draws heavily from own-grown and super-local produce. The result is a retreat in the fullest sense of the word, a blissfully secluded and serene Mallorcan hideaway, complete with five-star comforts and cinematic vistas.
Highs
- A wonderfully secluded setting surrounded by scenic landscapes, woods and farmland
- We love the immaculately understated rustic-chic design, peppered with contemporary works by local artists
- And the spectacular infinity-edge swimming pool, with eco-friendly filtration and gorgeous valley vistas
- The chic, light-filled spa offers a wide choice of water-based facilities, therapies and treatments
- Free daily yoga and meditation in supremely serene spaces, plus an impressive roster of workshops and activities
Lows
- We found the WiFi connection was occasionally intermittent – but you are here to disconnect
- Rooms don’t have black-out curtains (aiding circadian rhythms) so late-sleepers would benefit from an eye-mask
- It’s a relatively long drive from the airport, though that does add to the sense of remoteness
- Minimum age of 14 and no bedrooms can be made up as twins: this is primarily a couples' retreat
- A stay here is a (justifiably) pricey indulgence
Best time to go
Unlike most hotels on Mallorca, Es Racó d’Artà is open for most of the year – thanks to its seasonal adaptability. It’s obviously great in summer, when lounging by the pool and visiting local beaches will be top of most agendas. Spring and autumn are optimum times for outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling, while yoga and meditation are compatible with any time of the year. Come winter, log fires warm several cosy lounges – and even the spa. The hotel is closed January-mid-March every year.
Our top tips
Most will head to the beaches around nearby Cala Ratjada resort, including the super-snorkel-friendly waters of Cala Agulla. However, a little further up the coast is the lesser-known Cala Torta, a beautiful little secluded cove and one of the island's prettiest. Neighbouring Cala Mesquida also offers a marvellous swathe of protected coastline and some of the best surfing on Mallorca.
- Boutique Retreat
- 31 suites + 2 villas for 4-7
- Restaurant (open 6 days/week)
- Over 14s only
- Closed: Jan-mid March
- Outdoor Pool
- Spa Treatments
- Beach Nearby
- Pet Friendly
- Disabled Access
- Car recommended
- Parking
- Restaurants Nearby
- WiFi
- Air Conditioning
- Guest Lounge
- Terrace
- Garden
- Gym
- Bicycles Available
- Electric car charger
Rooms
Accommodation is spread between 8 suites and junior suites in the main building, 21 larger independent ‘casitas’ a stroll (or buggy ride) away, plus two secluded standalone houses for 4-7. Decor throughout pairs a soothingly spartan palette of light, airy tones with rustic knotty beams, hand-woven hemp and simple wood furnishings.
Bathrooms are a real highlight, each with separate soaking tub and rainfall shower, plus organic eco-toiletries, linen robes, and spa-quality slippers. Big TVs are discreetly tucked away in custom-made cabinets so as not to spoil the flawless cohesion of it all.
Our junior suite (15) featured fabulous valley views and opened to a spacious terrace with cushioned loungers, perfect for private sunbathing. Firm beds were dressed with soft toppers, feather duvets and a pick of pillows. The ‘casitas’ offer a little more room and more outside space – some with plunge pool – while all come with open-air showers so you can shower under the stars.
Of the two standalone houses, Sa Meva has two bedrooms, Sa Finqueta has three; all are kingsize doubles (no twins), with ensuite bathrooms. Both houses have a living room, terrace and private pool; Sa Finqueta also has its own kitchen. Bear in mind that these are 7-15 mins' walk from the main hotel.
Features include:
- Bathrobes
- Hairdryer
- In-room treatments available
- Minibar
- Mosquito net
- Safe box
- WiFi
Eating
For most of the year, diners gather on the terrace of the hotel’s Beni Axir restaurant – a magical spot when bathed in evening lamps hanging from the tree branches. The vibe inside is laid-back sophistication, hushed but far from stuffy, with two huge doors that slide open to connect with the outside. The restaurant prides itself on only using seasonal and/or island-sourced produce, much of it harvested from the estate’s own gardens. There are a daily-changing set lunch and dinner menus six days a week, with inspiration drawn from Mediterranean and traditional Mallorcan cooking.
Our stay coincided with the weekly barbecue (every Friday) when you can watch the chef at the coals from your table. We started with fresh prawns from nearby Cala Ratjada, house-baked bread and olive oil from the estate. Next was a choice of grilled fish, steaks and seasonal veg - all of it brimming with flavour.
Breakfast also deserves a mention, brimming with healthy-yet-filling options, freshly-squeezed juices and cooked-to-perfection eggs.
Features include:
- Coffee maker
- Restaurant
- Room service
Activities
- Daily-changing organised activities include art therapy, straw basket workshops, beekeeping and even astronomy for stargazers
- Bliss out in the spa, where the treatments have a focus on Japanese water-based techniques. Their signature therapy is Watsu (water-Shiatsu) involving a dedicated pool and acupressure. The spa also has a sauna, steam room, plunge baths, and pool with views
- Join a pre-breakfast yoga or meditation session: the lovely yoga studio has an outside terrace with valley vistas
- Drive or cycle to the secluded sandy coves of Cala Torta, Mitjana and Estreta
- The hotel organises regular guided hikes for ‘forest-bathing’ in the surrounding valley, or up to breathtaking view points
- Visit the nearby medieval town of Artà and climb the 180 steps to the Santuari de Sant Salvador – a 14th-century monastery with dramatic 360-degree panoramas
- Keen golfers will find themselves within easy reach of Capdepera Golf – possibly Mallorca's most picturesque 18-hole course
Activities on site or nearby include:
- Art classes
- Cycling
- Golf
- Hiking
- Historical sites
- Stargazing
- Well being
- Yoga
Kids
This retreat places emphasis on adult-friendly relaxation, so only those aged 14 and over are allowed.
Family friendly accommodation:
The two separate houses are best - Sa Meva has two bedrooms, Sa Finqueta three - but note that all bedrooms have kingsize double beds (no twins).
For more family-friendly places, see our Kids Collection
Location
Es Racó d’ Artà is set in a private estate 2km outside the town of Artà, on the eastern side of Mallorca.
By Air:
Fly to Palma de Mallorca, the island's only international airport (75km). You can arrange a pick-up through the hotel or there are always taxis waiting just outside Arrivals. The drive should take just over an hour.
By Car:
We recommend hiring a car to explore the island. From the airport, most of the route is on motorways and well-maintained roads, but exploring around the hotel you'll encounter plenty of small country lanes.
Detailed directions will be sent when you book through i-escape.
Airports:
- Palma de Mallorca Airport 75.0 km PMI
Other:
- Beach 7.0 km
- Shops 1.5 km
- Restaurant 1.0 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 1 independent review from i-escape guests
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