Discovering Menorca: Where Wild Beauty Meets Quiet Luxury

The Fontenille Collection is a masterclass in quiet luxury — an intimate portfolio of boutique properties across France, Tuscany and the Balearic island of Menorca. With a 12th opening on the horizon, each hotel is rooted in a deep respect for place, design and experience. In Menorca, travelers are treated to two unique sanctuaries: Torre Vella and Santa Ponsa. While they share the same impeccable hospitality under the guidance of General Manager Nicolas Orget, the spirit of each property is wonderfully distinct — offering guests the opportunity to curate their ideal Menorcan escape.

We made Torre Vella our home for the trip, drawn to its calming palette of sandy stone, whitewashed walls and natural textures that effortlessly blend into the surrounding countryside. The 17-room estate, spread between the main house and its former stables, is a peaceful retreat made for slow mornings and golden evenings. One of the most special experiences — and one I can’t recommend enough — is their sunset aperitivo on the cliffs. Guests are invited to pick up a picnic basket, lovingly packed with rosé and local snacks, and follow a quiet 20-minute path through country roads lined with wildflowers and wheat fields. The walk alone is magic, but the real reward is reaching a series of rustic wooden tables perched on the cliffs, where you can watch the sun melt into the sea in total serenity. We made this our nightly ritual — a moment of stillness that felt both grounding and indulgent.

Cliffside aperitivo

Back on property, Torre Vella offers a gorgeous pool surrounded by tall grasses, a charming kitchen with a locally focused menu and a breakfast spread that had me waking up with real excitement. The team is warm, present and thoughtful — adding to the relaxed, home-away-from-home atmosphere. One unexpected perk: the availability of an electric Fiat for guests who didn’t rent a car. That said, I highly recommend having a car, as exploring the island’s untouched corners is part of what makes Menorca so memorable.

The pool at Torre Vella

Suite with private pool at Torre Vella

Just a short 10-minute drive away is Santa Ponsa, a property that feels entirely different, yet equally enchanting. Santa Ponsa is a lush dream — verdant, colorful and teeming with life. The gardens took my breath away: green archways, bright tilework, chirping birds, clinging vines, secret benches tucked between blooms and even a trio of rescued donkeys grazing the hillside. Touring the property and its spa felt like stepping into another world. I treated myself to their signature olive oil massage, made with oil pressed from island-grown olives, and left feeling like I’d been reset — my skin soft, my spirit quiet. Santa Ponsa has just 22 rooms, so it retains that sense of intimacy, even amidst its vibrant, expansive setting. The best part? Guests can easily float between the two properties — enjoying different pools, dining options or simply a change of scene.

The charming courtyard of Santa Ponsa

What sets both Torre Vella and Santa Ponsa apart is their deep connection to the island and its natural rhythms. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here — it’s a philosophy. From organic farming and renewable energy to reforestation efforts and locally sourced menus, every detail reflects a respect for Menorca’s land and culture. Torre Vella’s 35-acre vineyard supplies their own wine, olive trees have been lovingly replanted and everything from fish to yogurt is sourced locally to minimize environmental impact and support the surrounding community.

Menorca is wild, raw, and real — and the Fontenille properties allow you to experience it fully, with just the right amount of thoughtful luxury. For couples, wellness seekers, design lovers and anyone craving authenticity, these hidden gems are the perfect way to unplug, recharge and fall in love with slow living.

Happy hour at Es Bruc

Rent a car

To fully experience the island’s beauty, renting a car is essential. Menorca may be small, but it's packed with hidden gems that are best discovered at your own pace. Driving from one end of the island to the other takes just about an hour, making it easy to explore charming villages, untouched beaches and scenic coastal roads without ever feeling rushed.

Explore the Camí de Cavalls Trail

This historic trail encircles the entire island and dates back to the 14th century, originally used by soldiers to patrol the coastline. Today, it’s a protected path offering incredible hiking opportunities with sweeping sea views, dramatic cliffs and access to remote coves.

Hike to local beaches

Some of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches require a bit of a walk — but the reward is always worth it. Arrive early to avoid parking struggles and soak in the serenity before the crowds arrive. A few of our favorites:

• Son Saura

• Cala Macarelleta

• Cala Galdana (easier access)

That said, the real magic of Menorca is the seemingly endless stretch of hidden beaches waiting to be discovered. Whether you find them by car, hike or trail, there’s always another slice of paradise around the corner.

Know the local language

Menorca has two official languages: Spanish (Castilian) and Menorquín, a dialect of Catalan. While English isn’t widely spoken among other travelers, we found that hotel staff and locals in hospitality are friendly, welcoming and fluent in English — always happy to help.

Eat & drink like a local

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a long lunch or sunset dinner at one of Menorca’s many charming beachside restaurants and bars. Some favorites include:

• Es Bruc – a classic beachfront stop with local seafood and laid-back vibes

• En Caragol – fresh fish and beautiful views

• Binidali Beach Bar – the perfect spot for sunset drinks

• Bar Augustin – cozy, authentic and loved by locals

• Pintarroja – modern, Mediterranean and stylishly understated

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Spain page.