Oasis at One with Nature by Merle Wilkening | 3rd June, 2022 | Prime Properties

Even during the drive up into the hills of Esporles, the mind begins to clear: around a 20-minute drive from Palma, the hustle and bustle slowly falls away as lush greenery takes over. This home – one of the most magnificent private residences on the island – greets all who come here with an exclusive welcome, amid the mighty silence that envelopes this haven. The views from here over the sunny mountain scenery are a gift that just keep on giving.

Standing proud in the southern foothills of the Tramuntana Mountains, the breathtaking backbone of Majorca, this manor house is blessed by a tranquil and secluded setting among the oak forests, vineyards and olive groves above the village of Esporles. Well and truly off the beaten track, the village is especially popular with nature lovers and locals alike. With its traditional stone façades and narrow winding streets, Esporles exudes an authentic Majorcan charm. During the annual “Fira Dolça” food festival on the first weekend in October, this place becomes even more seductive – with traditional island sweets served at stalls throughout the village.

Sporting enthusiasts will find that this region is also an ideal starting point for hiking, cycling and climbing. The nearest beaches are just a few minutes away by car, as is the 18-hole “Son Termens” golf course. The property’s location in the hilly west of the island means that unparalleled peace and nature can be found here right on the doorstep. Thanks to the fast and convenient connections to Palma and to the airport, Esporles has attracted a growing number of international residents over recent years, all of whom appreciate the special blend of cosmopolitan community and quaint village life.

Surrounded by expansive gardens filled with aromatic plants, the property stands on an impressive 12-hectare plot facing south. The Spanish landscape architect Luis González-Camino has designed the garden around a stone fountain. Small hideaways and shady seating areas covered with trellises make life in this unique home an absolute joy. Stone flagging paves the way and frames the fragrant herb beds. Thick, terraced walls made from local stone demarcate the property from the surrounding hills. To the rear is the swimming pool, which also boasts spectacular views of the mountain backdrop.

The origins of this historic farmhouse date back to the 18th century. The property as it stands today was designed by the Majorcan architect Antonio Obrador, in collaboration with the interior designer Luis Bustamante and his daughter Alejandra. The three ancient stone buildings were painstakingly restored in 2007 and now form a U-shape around the large inner courtyard. A loggia was also reinstated, inspired by the original building. Large windows and adjoining terraces, facing in different directions, make the natural surroundings an integral part of life here, blending in beautifully with the property itself.

The architectural design incorporates natural materials and traditional details like Mediterranean- style shutters, a tiled roof, and walkway stone flagging. The entire residence spans some 1,500 square metres in total, with 14 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, two elegant dining rooms, and spacious staff quarters. Each of the buildings located on the estate features exclusive living areas with open fireplaces, sumptuous bedrooms, and bathrooms finished in handcrafted Majorcan stone. The beautiful interiors are graced by subtle, warm pastel shades, antique furniture, and lavish decorations. When selecting the details, the owners incorporated their love of exquisite quality fabrics. In every room in the property, the ceilings and walls are decorated with unusual patterns, often with motifs sourced from nature, creating a cosy atmosphere throughout both summer and winter.

The Mediterranean style that pervades all the rooms in the property is complemented by both Moroccan and French influences. Carefully selected furniture and fabrics, imported from abroad, give the property a special charm all of its own. The majority of the pieces have been acquired from antique dealers on Majorca, in Madrid, and, above all, the south of France. Beautiful objects that the owners and the interior designer have sourced and found. The expansive lounge, with its sumptuous deep seats and Moroccan lanterns, forms the ideal setting for celebrating together in the style of the Orient.