Boutique Hotel Jardi de ses Bruixes

The Boutique Hotel Jardí de Ses Bruixes occupies a typical Minorcan townhouse whose picture-perfect blue and beige facade stands out among the rows of otherwise identical residential properties surrounding it. And passing through its front door is like stepping into someone's welcoming, tastefully decorated home. From its atmospheric and inviting living room to the wonderful array of traditional-patterned tiling and the secluded orange tree courtyard, this immaculate-yet-characterful hotel delights at every turn. The building was constructed by a boat captain in the early 19th century, and it has a panoramic tower so he could to see out to the port. Some flamboyant, Gaudi-esque additions made roughly a century later by the island's first Modernist architect are also still on display in the dining room. 

Bought as a ruin around the turn of the millennium, the present owners Anja and architect husband Nando opened the Jardi de ses Bruixes (Catalan for "Garden of the Dandelions") in 2014. A neighboring annex was added in 2017 with eight extra rooms to bring the total to 16. A quaint cafe that's open to the public is the heart of the hotel, while original artworks, numerous fresh flowers, and the regular smell of freshly baked cakes add to the hotel's undeniable, homey charm. Couples from the UK and mainland Spain make up the majority of the clientele; with an air of serene seclusion, it isn't as ideal for families with children in tow. 

The hotel is located on a quaint and residential street practically in the heart of Mahon's picturesque old town. Most of the capital's main tourist attractions are within easy walking distance, including the medieval Santa Maria Church and Carmen Cloisters surrounded by various pretty shopping streets and numerous pavement cafes. The Museum of Minorca is a 10-minute walk away, and the main ferry port and buzzing restaurant-lined quayside is a little farther. While there's no parking in the immediate area, a large and free parking lot is just a few minutes away on foot. Its location also puts it within easy reach of Menorca Airport, roughly a 10- to 15-minute drive. 

The hotel's 16 guest rooms and suites are spread evenly between the main building and the neighboring annex -- both serviced by an elevator. While rooms are individually decorated, styling is generally consistent, combining original architectural features such as pretty patterned tiles, sash windows, and exposed beams with superlatively tasteful contemporary minimalism. Rooms are also filled with original artwork, antique furniture sourced from around the island, and each one includes a wood-burning stove for cooler nights -- and an instantly snug and romantic atmosphere. Most rooms lack outdoor space, though one suite opens to a private patio with small plunge pool, and another has a long terrace overlooking the hotel's main courtyard.

Bathrooms are all also beautifully finished, with walk-in rainfall showers, deep terrazzo tubs, heated towel racks, and organic toiletries that include bath salts. Thick towels, bathrobes, and Egyptian-cotton pajamas also all come as standard. Other amenities include at least 32-inch smart TVs, free digital safes, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and mini-fridges with premium water replenished daily. Suites add Nepresso coffee machines. Wi-Fi is free of charge throughout, with a strong and reliable signal. 

Food plays a major role at the Hotel Jardí de Ses Bruixes, with an emphasis on market-sourced ingredients and locally inspired, fusion-style cooking. Breakfast is always included in the rate, with an a la carte menu featuring cooked-to-order eggs, Spanish hams, Minorcan cheeses, homemade jams, avocado toast, smoked salmon, and freshly squeezed orange juice. This can be leisurely enjoyed in the spectacular Art Nouveau dining room or in the courtyard, which has the secluded feel of a Moroccan riad dotted with orange trees above which hang ornate cut-glass chandeliers. The cafe opens for afternoon tea with homemade cakes, and in the evening the space becomes a dinner restaurant, serving an excellent menu of dishes combining Mediterranean, Asian, and Minorcan flavors. A wine cellar is available for tastings; lunch is only available with prior notice.

Further North African inspiration can be found in the chill-out area overlooking the courtyard, and there's also a rooftop terrace and lookout tower that offers 360-degree views over the picturesque Mahon cityscape -- a great spot for catching the sunset. Inside is a snug lounge with open fire, library, upright piano for guests' use, and honor bar for an evening tipple. The hotel also hosts regular artistic and cultural events. A large (2,475-square-foot/230-square-meter) basement spa opened at the end of 2017, with a heated pool, whirlpool tub, sauna, and steam room. Travelers should note that there's a three-night minimum stay during summer months. Small pets are allowed, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.