Menorca, Spain / Menorca Experimental

What started life as a 19^th century farmhouse, has now been tenderly transformed. Craft cocktails, untrammelled design and pops of playfulness throughout, this is agritourism with a cool twist.

The young Frenchmen behind Experimental Group’s hip bars and restaurants are adding hotels to their portfolio, and we’re absolutely hooked. Away from their usual trendy urban watering holes, here, chirping crickets mark your arrival, whilst prickly pear leaves hang like decorations against whitewashed walls. The former military base was brought back to life under the guidance of Parisian designer, Dorethée Meilichzon, who has expertly created a delightfully soothing Balearics-boho chic vibe. The décor is simple and neutral, with brighter splashes of colour against pastel hues, terracotta tiling, rustic rattan and playful retro pieces. The best accommodations are the ones that come with a plunge pool, including the room positioned in the old chapel. From mismatched slippers to binoculars in the rooms, Experimental’s trademark fun touches can be found throughout.

This is a rural setting to be sure (access is via a dusty track lined by fragrant juniper shrubs, lush pine groves, and sweet-smelling wildflowers), but what you discover when you turn up is a cool hangout that’s attracting fun-loving individuals. Nothing here is too stressful. It’s a place to kick back and do nothing but chill by the infinity pool and indulge in imaginative food and drink. Redefining cocktail culture, the bar here is less low-lit, reserved speakeasy, and more a social hub for connecting with people. The food, as you would assume, is farm-to-fork; expect a social dining scene with benches and sharing dishes around a 30-person communal table. There’s also yoga, pottery and painting classes offered to the sound of birdsong and smell of the sea. Hire a car if you want to explore more of the island – the chefs will happily pack you a picnic.

Travel notes:

• 34 rooms in the main building and 9 standalone private villas
• Two farm-to-fork restaurants headed by renowned chef Sylvain Roucayrol
• Learn the secret of a perfect serve with a signature cocktail by the hotel’s infinity pool
• Rejuvenate the soul with yoga, painting and pottery classes
• The beach is a 15-minute drive or comfortable 40-minute walk away
• Spa area equipped with 3 massage rooms, a sauna and hammam and a beautiful yoga room