Hidden gems to stay & unwind #1 – Can Quince de Balafia Ibiza
Sant Lorenzo is best known to many for its famous restaurant La Paloma, but underestimated hidden gem Can Quince de Balafia not. After a trip over dusty dirt roads through the hills of San Llorenzo, you will arrive in a serene oasis of peace. As soon as you enter the wooden gate of Can Quince, you enter the 700-year-old village center of San Lorenzo de Balafia, where it literally feels like you have stepped back in time...
Read more: Hidden gems to stay & unwind #1 - Can Quince de Balafia in Ibiza
This special rural hotel with 6 guest rooms is located in and around one of the two old towers from the 13de century village, which is one of the few places on the island that has remained intact after the pirate raids in the 16e in 17de century. The tower and associated estate (one of the seven located between the old towers) has been inhabited by the lovely Belgian owner Sophie and her artistic family for more than 25 years. At the end of the 20th century, this place was placed on the cultural heritage list. Certainly not just any village.
So much for the numbers. Back to the lush garden full of colorful bougainvilleas, enormous cacti, pergolas full of ivy and shady seating areas with charming cast-iron brocante vintage furniture. Add to this a swimming pool surrounded by large comfortable sunbeds and views that extend beyond the rolling hills lukewarm valley, and you never want to go home again.
In estate, where the olive press from the 13de century, it is still completely intact (you would almost think it is still in use), there are 4 luxury suites. There are also 2 rooms in the old tower itself. All rooms have their own private terrace. The authentic character of the thick white estate walls, the original Sabina wooden beams on the ceiling and the centuries-old wooden doors contrast beautifully with the sleek cast floors and modernized bathrooms, the crystal clear beds and the fresh interior that is a stylish combination of local finds and (French) vintage design.
Breakfast is served in the garden, with homemade granola and homemade jam from figs & apricots from our own garden. For whom this is still not enough ge-unwind several evenings a week, you can join the yoga class that is given in the garden where locals and guests come together in a friendly atmosphere.
If you are no longer able to opt for this ultimate this season unwind going on, the good news is that this place is open all year round, and is also a damn good place to be during the autumn and winter months. In the large common room in the finca, a huge fireplace burns non-stop and, as icing on the cake, the swimming pool is also wonderfully heated in the early and late season. So no more excuses. Just go go go.
