Hotel Sa Barrera

With its bold, salmon-pink facade, flamboyant signage, and stained-glass window entrance, before even stepping foot inside it's clear that the Sa Barrera is not your average hotel. And this is immediately reconfirmed in its reception area -- a baroque-infused collection of religious statuary, crimson drapery, and gold accents. Gilt-framed mirrors and a grand centerpiece chandelier dripping with cut glass complete the picture. The jumble of Moroccan, Italian Renaissance, and Rococo elements scattered throughout this characterful property create a look and feel that sits somewhere between chintzy and palatial. Opened in 1983, the independent family owned hotel was the first adults-only hotel on the island, as well as being one of few vacation properties open year-round. At just 26 guest rooms distributed over three floors (with no elevator) it's also one of the smaller, though with spacious and sunny gardens that extend to the cliff edge, offering spectacular views over the bay. The child-free atmosphere is particularly serene and relaxing, attracting couples of all ages from around Europe.

The hotel is located just off the main road that skirts the cliff overlooking one side of the gorgeous cove of Cala'n Porter. This beautiful sandy beach with crystal-clear waters is accessible via a steep footpath, roughly a 10-minute walk on the more gently slopped road. A small tourist train also does the journey both ways in summer months. The buzzy though laid-back center of this small resort is just a few minutes away on foot, with a few family-friendly restaurants, car rental agencies, and a cozy Irish bar. About 15 minutes' walk in the other direction is one of the island's most famous bars, Cova d'en Xoroi, hewn out of the cliff with terraces that provide some wonderful views of the sunset. Day trips to the capital Mahon involve an easy 20-minute drive, while Menorca Airport is even closer at 15 minutes by car.

While no two of the hotel's 26 guest rooms are identical, all follow a similarly ornate style, combining a variety of exotic elements such as intricately carved headboards, distressed wood fixtures, satin-like red fabrics, wrought iron chairs, and tall, gilt-framed mirrors. Most guest seem to enjoy the results, though others may find it gaudy; details like chipped paintwork and mismatched clothes hangers also feel a little scruffy. Beds are on the firm side with foam pillows, and bedside plugs and light switches are conveniently positioned. All rooms open to spacious furnished balconies, some overlooking the quiet street, though most with pool views and some even glimpses of the sea. 

Air-conditioning is remote controlled and works well, and other amenities include 20-inch flat-screen TVs (with very limited English-speaking channels), small key-operated safes (fee with deposit), and minibars filled on request (though use for guests own drinks is oddly forbidden). Kettles are available on request and in-room Wi-Fi is free, fast, and reliable. Well-maintained, tiled bathrooms mostly have shower/tub combos with rainfall showers, dispenser soap and shampoo, and wall-mounted hairdryers; some rooms have a shower only.

Typical of an independent mid-range boutique hotel, there's not a great deal in the way of facilities. The swimming pool, however, is long enough for a few strokes and lined with cushioned loungers and Tiki-style umbrellas. Free beach towels are also provided. Breakfast is always included in the rate, offering a modest selection of continental-style items that include cheese, cold cuts, pastries, bread, bircher muesli, and pre-made scrambled eggs and bacon. Orange juice is natural and coffee is from bean-to-cup machines, though there's no live cooking. There's an alfresco patio with poolside seating, as well as a terrace offering fabulous views over the tables dotted around the cove. In the evening, the restaurant opens for dinner, offering an Italian-inspired menu of freshly made pasta and quality pizza. A half-board rate is available that includes a daily changing set menu. While the breakfast service is a little disappointing, food from the restaurant is top-notch (if a little expensive) and the candlelit setting particularly romantic. Wi-Fi is free throughout. Travelers with limited mobility should be aware that the hotel doesn't have an elevator.