Hotel Tres Sants

If it were not for an inconspicuous coat of arms bearing its name, there would be nothing to suggest the presence of the Hotel Tres Sants. Its heavy green door opens directly into the reception area -- an intimate and inviting space that mixes traditional Minorcan furnishings with subtle modern touches. Walls painted in washes of cyan and magenta contrast playfully with the original 18th-century architectural features of wooden beams and sandstone brickwork. The staircase here curls around a small atrium flooded with sun from skylights, while by night hallways and walls are illuminated by candlelight, creating a genuinely magical atmosphere. Opened in 2010, the hotel dates back to the 18th-century, hints of which can be seen in its vaulted stone ceilings and terra-cotta flagstone floors, all sensitively restored to retain its period charm. Below ground is a subterranean spa occupying a space that dates back even further to Roman times, while the hotel's panoramic rooftop terrace overlooks the city's cathedral. (Under the right conditions the island of Majorca is also visible.) Open year-round, this friendly, family-run boutique hotel attracts a steady stream of mostly couples hailing from Britain and mainland Spain. 

The hotel is tucked away amongst the labyrinthine lanes of Ciutadella's picturesque old town. This is an area that's pedestrianized with loads of restaurants, quaint cafes, and boutique outlets within a short stroll. Historical attractions are also accessible on foot, such as the medieval cathedral just a two-minute walk away. The city's harbor, backed by old city walls, is five minutes away on foot; here, guests can find even more eating and drinking establishments. The nearest parking is also five minutes' walk, and from there several beaches are a 10- to 15-minute drive away. Set on the far western side of the island, the capital Mahón and Minorca Airport are 40 to 45 minutes by car.

Hotel Tres Sants has just eight guest rooms, each named after a saint and individually styled in bright and breezy decor. A mix of floaty white drapery, patterned rugs, and pastel-toned walls set the mood. Original features such as exposed beams, terra-cotta tiles, and fireplaces also point to the buildings historical roots. The overall feeling is spacious and homey. Some rooms open to small balconies, while others feature four-poster beds and open wardrobes. Travelers with kids may also appreciate the family room with bunk-beds sleeping up to four.

In-room tech includes flat-screen TVs, stereo systems, and free Wi-Fi, while high-end touches such as bathrobes, well-stocked minibars, and Egyptian-cotton bedding adds a little luxury. Bathrooms are usually outfitted with chunky molded sink basins and bathtubs, paired with heated towel wracks, hairdryers, and vanilla-scented toiletries. 

For a petite, historic property, Hotel Tres Sants offers a surprisingly full lineup of features, particularly when it comes to its dining. Breakfast is always included in rates, and it's taken at a long communal table in a small dining room with vaulted ceilings or just outside on the terrace. The spread is a decent continental buffet that includes plenty of local produce, plus fresh-squeezed orange juice and made-to-order coffee. The arty cafe also serves a menu of tasty homemade dishes such as cakes, pastas and salads, and there's a small bar. Drinks and snacks can be taken up to the roof terrace, which offers spectacular panoramas over the surrounding city and out to sea. Guests also have 24-hour access to a small but atmospheric spa with heated pool (sized for a dip not a swim) and steam room. In-room massages can be arranged, too. There's a modest library just off the lobby, and Wi-Fi is free of charge throughout.