Small but charming: S’Hotelet in Santanyí

S’Hotelet is located practically on Santanyí's Plaça Major, at Plaza Mayor 23 — you may occasionally hear the church bells, but never so loudly that it bothers you. The hotel has only five suites; each is named after a local plant or flower (Erika, Romero, Evergreen — you immediately notice the Mallorcan touch). The decor is quietly modern: light walls, natural wood and some hand-picked artworks that differ in each room. Breakfast is often served on small plates: Mallorcan bread, ham, olives, fresh cheese and homemade jam in summer. The hosts are uncomplicated and usually speak English, Spanish and German, which makes check-in relaxed. A small extra I like is the courtyard, a shady spot with plants, ideal for an afternoon with a book. Practical tips: a rental car is recommended for beach trips; parking in Santanyí exists but is in high demand on market days (Wednesday, Saturday). If you want quiet, ask for a room that doesn't face the main street. For longer stays the hotel offers the Sempreviva House — perfect if you want to cook in the mornings or travel with children.

S’Hotelet is located practically on the Plaça Major of Santanyí, at Plaza Mayor 23 — you may occasionally hear the church bells, but they never ring so loudly that it becomes a nuisance. The hotel has only five suites; each is named after a local plant or flower (Erika, Romero, Evergreen — the Mallorcan character is immediately noticeable). The interior is quietly modern: light walls, natural wood and a few handpicked artworks that differ in each room. Breakfast is often served on small plates: Mallorcan bread, ham, olives, fresh cheese and homemade jam in summer. The hosts are relaxed and usually speak English, Spanish and German, which makes check-in easy. A small extra I like is the courtyard, a shady spot with plants, ideal for an afternoon with a book. Practical tips: for beach trips a rental car is recommended; parking in Santanyí is available but in high demand on market days (Wednesday, Saturday). If you want peace and quiet, ask for a room that does not face the main street. For longer stays the hotel offers the Sempreviva House — perfect if you want to cook in the mornings or travel with children.

The region's best-known beaches are Es Trenc and Cala Mondragó — they couldn't be more different, and that's exactly what makes the area exciting. Es Trenc is the classic postcard bay: a long stretch of fine white sand, clear water and space, even on sunny days if you arrive early enough. Parking can be tight; my advice is to arrive before 10 a.m. in summer or go in the evening for a quieter beach walk. Cala Mondragó lies within the eponymous natural park and offers several coves, hiking trails and picnic areas. Here the water is often calmer, with no motorboats nearby, making it particularly family-friendly. Observe the nature protection rules — no fires, take your rubbish with you — because the park is actively protected. Practical notes: bring water, sun protection and a small beach towel; food stalls are not always open outside the high season. If you plan to visit several beaches in one day, plan your driving times and perhaps bring a small picnic with local specialties from the Santanyí market.

For guests who prefer more independence, the Sempreviva House is a very practical solution. It is a small apartment with a junior suite and an additional double room as well as a well-equipped kitchenette — enough space for four people, ideal for families or friends. The kitchen is not huge but functional: small oven, hob, coffee machine and basic pots and dishes. The best thing about this option is the freedom: breakfast from the market, a later snack in the courtyard, and no pressure from set breakfast times. Nearby there is a supermarket for everyday purchases and very good butchers and bakeries offering fresh products. Cleaning and linen changes are available on request; the hosts respond quickly if something is missing. Practical tips: bring your favourite spices if you stay longer, and plan the weekly shopping after visiting the market — especially on Wednesdays and Saturdays Santanyí has a good selection of regional products. For arrivals in the evening, clear arrangements about check-in are useful because reception is not staffed around the clock.