A dream over 20 years in the making: The road to adding his passion project Son Bunyola in Majorca's Serra de Tramuntana to his prestigious Virgin Limited Edition was a long one for entrepreneur and hotel magnate Richard Branson – but his patience has paid off. He had already purchased the property back in the late 1990s, but problems with the building permits hampered his vision. As beautiful as the Finca in the Majorcan countryside was, renovations were essential. He eventually sold the property again, but he could not let it go. When it unexpectedly reappeared on the market, he bought it back, securing official permission from a new city council to begin work. After two years of intensive renovation, the idyllic hideaway finally opened its doors this June - and Falstaff TRAVEL was there.

Exterior view of the secluded Son Bunyola on Mallorca © Virgin Limited Edition

Why book?

Mallorca has many facets - but Son Bunyola shows the iconic Balearic island at its most idyllic, far from any party areas. Nestled in the unspoiled Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, the new hotel offers casual luxury, welcoming accomodations, top tier cuisine, and a range of Majorcan experiences. If you'd like to enjoy Mallorca's quieter side, you couldn't find a better place.

The reception of the new hotel © Virgin Limited Edition

Location

Just under 45 minutes from Palma airport, arriving at the picturesque village of Banyalbufar feels like landing in another world. Or at least in another time. The hustle and bustle of the island's capital couldn't seem further away as you make your way through the narrow serpentine roads that run through the rugged mountains. The journey alone is an adventure in itself, and the views of the landscape are correspondingly beautiful. Once you've arrived in the valley, the luxurious Son Bunyola awaits amid absolute solitude, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. By the time you exit your car and see the bright blue sea glistening in the distance, you'll understand why Richard Branson could never let go of this place.

Apart from the hotel, there is nothing but pristine nature as far as the eye can see. © Virgin Limited Edition

Rooms & suites

Unmistakably Majorcan and individually designed, no two of the cozy and thoroughly stylish accommodations are alike. Twenty rooms and six suites offer every creature comfort you could wish for, including gorgeous views of the mountains and the sea. The hotel's highlight are the two Tower Suites, which are located in a 13th- and a 19th-century tower respectively, with both featuring their own roof terrace.

Interior of a Deluxe Sea View Room with its own terrace © Virgin Limited Edition

The bathroom of a Deluxe Suite © Virgin Limited Edition

If you'd like even more space and the ultimate in privacy, there are three luxurious villas that take the notion of "home away from home" to the next level. These dreamy Balearic retreats boast private pools, rustic design, cozy elegance - and room for up to ten adults.

The private roof terrace of a Tower Suite © Virgin Limited Edition

Food

Head Chef Samuel spares no effort to make every meal an event. His farm-to-table ethos honors Majorcan tradition – and makes full use of the hotel's location, which counts its own garden, olive groves, and vineyards among its treasures. Many of the products Samuel uses come from the hotel's own backyard. The Sa Terrassa restaurant is open all day to hungry guests who can't get enough of the kitchen team's delicious creations.

Interior of the Sa Terrassa Restaurant © Virgin Limited Edition

Breakfast leaves nothing to be desired, but a special highlight is their delicious pastries and fresh fruit. Dinners are characterized by culinary variety, with modern European cuisine and Spanish classics. Private dinners can also be organized upon request. The upcoming opening of Sa Tafona Restaurant will add a tapas bar, further expanding the hotel's gourmet options.

The terrace of the house offers an amazing backdrop.© Virgin Limited Edition

Wellness & Activities

While modest in size, the spa offers a range of soothing treatments using Gaia Natural products, as well as couples' massages. Yoga and Pilates classes refresh and re-energize, while the heated outdoor pool invites you to swim, no matter the season. As a sports aficionado, it was important to Richard Branson to include the surrounding Tramuntana mountains in the hotel's fitness regimen: Bike tours and hiking excursions are a must for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

The pool of the new luxury hotel in Mallorca © Virgin Limited Edition

There's also a private tennis court on the property, and outings to one of the island's 20 golf courses can be booked upon request. For the sporty and serious, there is the opportunity to work out with a personal trainer. The ocean is about a 20-minute walk away with a shuttle service running regularly to the beach, where sailing and kayaking are also options. Since Branson is a well-known chess nut, you'll find boards throughout the hotel.

The game room including chess boards, Richard Branson's favorite game © Virgin Limited Edition

In conclusion

Even if you think you know Mallorca like the back of your hand, the Son Bunyola might prove you wrong. Like a microcosm of its own, the hotel proudly showcases its breathtaking surroundings. The fact that Branson has fulfilled his heart's desire and created something more than just another luxury hotel on the popular Balearic island can be felt in every corner. Even the staff seems proud of the house, where every little detail has been handled with love and care. It feels almost surreal to be so secluded from civilization and to inhabit such a special corner of the world. Both down-to-earth and exclusive, the Son Bunyola sets a new standard for supreme luxury.

Son Bunyola
Ctra. C, 710, 83km, 07191 Banyalbufar, Illes Balears, Spain
Tel.: +34 871 62 06 02
Web: virginlimitededition.com
Price: doubles from €600

Continue reading: New villa on Branson private island Moskito Island