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In Conversation with David Guthrie from A Tent with a View: Part II
A Tent With a View: Changing the Universe
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16 May 2025
Earlier this month, I spent a long weekend in beautiful Mallorca on a FAM trip to visit two exceptional properties: Castell Son Claret and Son Bunyola, with some time to explore the island while watching the Ironman 70.3 in Alcudia. It was a whistle-stop visit, but one packed with highlights, memorable hospitality, and a few surprises along the way.
My first stop was Castell Son Claret, an elegant and peaceful hideaway nestled just outside the village of Es Capdellà (in the South West of the island, at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains. As you arrive, you’re immediately struck by the grandeur of the historic castle estate, beautifully restored and set within 326 acres of gardens, olive groves, and citrus trees.
The overall feel here is serene, grown-up, and utterly spoiling. Rooms are dotted across the grounds in the original castle and adjoining outbuildings, with some featuring private terraces or plunge pools, ideal for couples looking for privacy and uninterrupted relaxation.
Dining is a major highlight. Their Sa Clastra restaurant holds a Michelin star and offers a creative tasting menu that celebrates local ingredients with international flair. The more relaxed Olivera is perfect for al fresco lunches and candlelit dinners under the stars.
There’s also a top-tier spa, large outdoor pool, and plenty of walking trails through the surrounding countryside. If you are seeking a quiet retreat that balances luxury with authentic Mallorcan charm, Castell Son Claret is a perfect fit.
Next, I headed to the much-anticipated Son Bunyola, part of Richard Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition portfolio. Newly opened in summer 2023, this is a destination that’s already creating a lot of buzz, and for good reason.
Set within a 1,300-acre private estate on the island’s rugged northwest coast, the hotel occupies a beautifully converted 16th-century finca, surrounded by mountains and olive groves, with sweeping views over the Mediterranean. It’s hard not to be impressed from the moment you arrive.
The interiors are warm and inviting, think terracotta tiles, exposed stone, and soft Mediterranean hues, perfectly balancing traditional style with contemporary comfort. Rooms and suites are spacious, with thoughtful touches and, in many cases, expansive terraces.
There are two standout restaurants: one focused on refined Spanish cuisine, the other more relaxed and Mediterranean in feel. Both use ingredients grown on the estate or sourced locally. The estate also includes private villas, ideal for families or groups looking for more space and seclusion.
What struck me most was the sense of privacy and exclusivity, yet with a warm, laid-back energy. The staff were effortlessly attentive, and there’s a strong focus on sustainability and community, which adds to the appeal.
This visit coincided with the Ironman 70.3 in Alcudia, which created an electric atmosphere on the island. The town was buzzing with energy, and it was a fantastic opportunity to soak up the community spirit while supporting the athletes. If you’re ever visiting during this event, even as a spectator, it’s well worth experiencing.
Outside of the hotel visits, I managed to explore a bit more of Mallorca’s natural beauty and local charm. Driving across the island is easy and scenic, with plenty of opportunities to stop in postcard-worthy villages like Valldemossa and Deià, or find quiet coves for a swim. The diversity of the landscape, from rugged mountains to hidden beaches, makes this a perfect destination for active travellers, couples, and families alike and is only a short 2 hour flight from any London airport.
No trip to Mallorca would be complete without mentioning its world-renowned cycling scene. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a weekend enthusiast, the island offers some of the best road cycling in Europe. Smooth, well-maintained tarmac winds its way through dramatic mountain passes, sleepy villages, and coastal switchbacks, making every ride feel like a scenic highlight reel.
During my stay, I spotted dozens of cyclists tackling the climbs and enjoying the long descents, especially around the Tramuntana range. The famous Sa Calobra climb, with its hairpin bends and epic views, is a rite of passage for many, while routes near Alcudia, Pollensa, and Valldemossa offer equally rewarding rides with slightly gentler gradients.
What makes Mallorca especially appealing for cyclists is the island’s infrastructure: bike-friendly hotels, dedicated cycle cafés, rental shops with top-of-the-range gear, and respectful drivers. Both Castell Son Claret and Son Bunyola are well positioned for riders looking to explore quieter, more scenic routes with full support back at base, luxury recovery, anyone?
Whether clients are planning a full cycling holiday or just want to get a ride or two in during their trip, Mallorca ticks every box. It’s easy to see why so many professional teams and amateurs return year after year.
Mallorca continues to impress with its blend of understated luxury, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Castell Son Claret and Son Bunyola offer two very different, but equally special, experiences of the island, whether you’re looking for refined peace or relaxed coastal elegance.
For the best experience, we recommend visiting between May and June or September and October. These shoulder seasons offer warm weather, quieter roads and beaches, and a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for making the most of everything the island has to offer without the crowds of summer's peak.
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