Hotel Rusticae Alcaufar Vell, Menorca

Pros

• The hotel sits in a renovated 18th-century house on a large estate, maintaining unique architecture, both handmade and made by nature. 
• Enjoy an ideal location near two coves, Cala Alcaufar and Cala Roig, and part of the popular Camí de Cavalls hiking path, which encircles the entire island. 
• Meals are all served at the property's on-site restaurant, but you can also order room service and picnic lunches, arrange private dining experiences, and grab drinks in the bodega. 
• Breakfast starts at 6:00 am and runs until noon, accommodating both early and late risers. 
• The hotel hosts the occasional event, from live music to speaking series. 

Cons

• Unlike many agritourism properties in the Balearic Islands, this hotel doesn't have an outdoor pool—though you won't be far from excellent swimming at the beach. 

Authenticity

You'll sleep in a renovated 18th-century manor house and stables on a sprawling estate. The property has preserved and maintained much of the original charm, including stone archways, tiled flooring, and wood-beamed ceilings. Enhance your experience by having "supper under the stars."

Location

Alcaufar Vell is a rural hotel in Menorca's southeast, just about 15 minutes from both the island's airport and the main city, Mahón. Less than five minutes takes you to Cala Alcaufar, a rocky cove with crystalline waters, perfect for swimming. From here, follow the famous Camí de Cavalls hiking path for about 10 minutes to reach the sandy beach of Playa Caló Roig with views of Torre d' Alcalfar.  

Rooms & Bathrooms

Enjoy charming rooms with historical features, such as wood-beamed ceilings, stone walls, archways, and antique furnishings. Some of the 22 rooms share names with famous guests, including Archduke Luis Salvador of Austria. All offer cozy, humble lodgings with neutral tones, air conditioning, minifridges, and whirlpool tubs. Higher-tiered units add sofas, separate bedrooms, dining areas, and private terraces. Some of the bathrooms and bed linens feel like they could use an update.  

Other Highlights

Enjoy authentic Menorcan meals at the on-site restaurant, which prioritizes seasonal produce and goods from local markets. Have dinner outside in the garden or arrange a private meal anywhere on the estate, though you'll also find a cozy bodega with regional wine, vermouth, and other drinks. The hotel grounds provide two trails, one perfect for running or jogging and the other for a stroll to experience the area's natural essence. The kitchen is happy to prepare a picnic for your walk. 

Sustainability

Menorca is a biosphere reserve, as the island strives to live harmoniously within nature. Alcaufar Vell sits on over 600 acres (250 hectares) of natural reserve and offers a home to 100-year-old trees, expansive gardens, olive groves, and grazing land for farm animals.