Stay Here: This Spanish Countryside Villa Is on Our Summer Bucket List

This summer, we're dreaming of Menorca, one of Spain's untouched Balearic islands where cerulean seas and long stretches of golden sand mingle with wild countryside and quaint villages filled with laid-back locals. Its vibe is more calm than its nearby neighbours Mallorca and Ibiza, making it the ideal place to get back to nature and experience the authentic architecture, food and experiences the slice of Mediterranean paradise has to offer. Perched high on the hillside and with a name that translates to 'the eagle's beak', Es Bec d'Aguila is a 19th century finca (estate) that's part boutique hotel part family home, offering its guests exclusive access to sixty hectares of natural landscape and a range of bespoke services. Pottery workshop anyone?

You might already know from reading this article we put together on how to nail the Mediterranean minimalist look at home, but we're pretty smitten with the organic and authentic aesthetic that radiates from this beautiful part of the world. To say that the interiors at Es Bec d'Aguila are to die for is a huge understatement. Atelier du Pont, a Paris-based interior design and architecture studio was brought on board to breathe new life into this historic site, and they've achieved a breathtaking result that's a lesson in old and new, mixing design styles and remaining authentic at all costs. Authenticity is a theme that runs throughout the entire operation at this Spanish villa, from the whitewashed walls to the handmade geometric mosaic tiles whose rustic and tactile texture begs you to slip off your shoes and experience this retreat with all of your senses. Throughout the eleven-bedroom villa, mid-century furniture sits alongside organic rattan and timber objects from local craftsman as well as from various countries across the globe. Every now and then you'll catch a glimpse of vintage photographs of the original owners and workers of this site to remind you of the rich historic value of this villa. 

The team of designers have been strategic when it comes to colour here, with a selection of lively spaces that feature a bold palette of mustard and deep blue, while some of the rooms have been designed to remain as a place to wind down slowly, decorated in subdued tones that are no less stunning. A French influence has been carried out to the jardin à la française (formal garden) where a twenty-five metre swimming pool is calling your name and is flanked by a pavilion with custom comfortable daybeds.You won't find it hard to find a special spot to admire the world-class views, with outdoor terraces on all levels that provide the perfect vantage point to catch the magnificent sunset. After dark, an aperitif in the communal living room sounds like the perfect way to end the day, complete with marble bar, library and a dedicated games table. 

Images courtesy of Es Bec d'Aguila. Photography by Karel Balas.

For more travel inspiration, check out this jaw-dropping Tasmanian retreat.