Premium residence Menorca Binibeca

With its weather-worn gray stone, arrowslit-style windows, and medieval-looking form, the fortress-like facade of the Vanity Eden Binibeca could hardly be described as welcoming. Just inside, however, the lobby is bright and inviting with an airy combination of modern seating, contemporary-design lighting, and abstract artwork. New arrivals are greeted with a welcome drink of chilled Cava, and check-in is a relaxing, sit-down affair. While the main building continues in blocky gray brick, the newer part of the hotel consists of several smaller low-rise blocks covered in attractive natural stone and partially clad with ivy and colorful bougainvillea. Bamboo awnings supported by driftwood braces add a beach-hut vibe, while elsewhere whitewashed walls bring in a touch of Balearic chic. There are three pool areas located around the complex and its pretty gardens, each offering a slightly different atmosphere. An adults-only environment makes for a peaceful and relaxing vibe throughout, attracting almost exclusively couples from the U.K. though they represent a wide age range.

Perched on the edge of a low cliff overlooking a pretty cove, the hotel's setting is certainly a highlight. Just opposite the small bay also sits Binibeca Vell, a wonderful whitewashed development built in the seventies in the style of a traditional fishing village -- a tourist attraction in its own right. The surrounding area is mostly private residences and vacation rental homes, plus a few low-key restaurants. There's very little in the way of nightlife. The small and rocky Cala Sa Olla beach is a few minutes' walk away, or there are two sandy beaches within walking distance in either direction. Situated on the southeastern corner of the island, both its capital Mahón and Minorca Airport are just 15 to 20 minutes away by car.

The 150 rooms and suites all benefitted from a partial makeover in 2014, adding wood-effect flooring, streamlined contemporary furniture, and traditional ikat patterned fabrics. Some original and rather dated elements still remain, however, and some furnishings are looking a little tired. All rooms open to balconies or terraces, with standard rooms overlooking the quiet street, upgrades offering partial sea views, and suites full sea views -- some also adding spiral staircases to sun terraces with whirlpool tubs and Bali beds.

Rooms are all air-conditioned, with flat-screen TVs (some U.K.-based channels), coffee- and tea-making facilities, and safes. Minibars often have free welcome drinks and water is replaced daily. Wi-Fi is also free of charge, and it's dependable. Most bathrooms have been modernized, with walk-in showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and hotel-brand toiletries. Deluxe Rooms and suites also have separate whirlpool tubs and provide bathrobes.

Most of the hotel's facilities are geared around relaxation. There are three outdoor swimming pools, one particularly quiet and lined with Bali beds, the second enclosed by a sun terrace, and the third with lovely sea views and direct access to the rocky coastline. Guests have free entry to a spa, with sauna and steam rooms, plus massage treatments and a gym. Low-key organized activities include morning stretching and fitness classes. Evening entertainment of live music and occasional dancing is similarly undemanding. 

Breakfast, lunch and dinner is served daily in the hotel's buffet restaurant, with half-board meal plans as standard, covering morning and evening meals. An all-inclusive option is also available. Buffets offer good variety and food quality, with twice-weekly themes and live-cooking stations, though some guests have complained that flies can be an issue. An alfresco terrace provides lovely views of the sea and village. There's also an a la carte restaurant specializing in seafood, traditional Italian, and local cooking, while a poolside bar offers drinks and snacks (fruit, sandwiches, and ice-cream) throughout the day. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.