Tranquility by the Sea in Portocolom at Casa Toni

We guarantee that this property will offer you a taste of Spain from the moment you set your eyes on it. Lush potted plants line the path to the Mallorcan entrance adorned with a silver bell, welcoming you with open arms. But the welcoming embrace of the cacti aligned along the low stone facade is far from prickly. Greenery flourishes from every corner, thanks to the favorable climate. There′s even a carefully tended vegetable garden. In the garden, where even the resident turtles would be delighted to bask and relax, it′s the towering palm trees, with their trunks firmly rooted in the ground like elephant legs, that greet guests: this is a place where you can lounge, stretch out, and let the sun warm your face, both on the lawn and by the pool. The L-shaped layout of the main house, with its surrounding terrace roof, creates such a variety of seating and lounging spots that everyone will find a cozy corner for themselves, but when it′s time for a barbecue, all the tables can be brought together in a snap. Those sleeping in the annex also have their own private outdoor domain. Not even cars can complain about a lack of parking space or shade, as they′ll soon be back on the road, from which, depending on the wind, the sound of engines may occasionally drift.

This estate is the ideal place for those who appreciate exceptional comfort, solid furniture, heavy fabrics, and trinkets abound, not to mention a cheerful mix of shapes and colors. The guestbook at the entrance is filled with enthusiastic notes from previous guests. The lounges are spacious and airy, made for groups and large families. Everyone will gather around the long dining table like knights of the round table for a traditional feast of tapas, soups, and paella, with one or two jugs of the island′s sweet wine. At first glance, the kitchen might seem designed for a dollhouse, but it′s deceiving. Look again: it′s open and inviting, with a cozy corner to chat and keep the cook company, and it′s thoroughly modern; the high-tech fridge-freezer can hold enough food for the whole group, with plenty of room left for refreshments. You have the option to sleep in the main house or in the (quieter) annex next door. Separate bedrooms give you the opportunity to retreat for a while to unwind. Single or double bed? Simple or stately? With a bathroom in sunshine yellow, navy blue, or a psychedelic look? Which best reflects your holiday mood?

PORTOCOLOM AND SURROUNDINGS:

The blue and white striped lighthouse on La Punta peninsula knows where the center of attention should be: the holiday port of Portocolom, with its picturesque streets of hillsides that, fortunately, are not yet crowded with tourists. In the new town, you′ll find excellent fish dishes; in the north end, the old town is perfect for an evening stroll. Further south, the holiday region of Cala d′Or, with its steep cliffs and attractive marina, should be at the top of your list of day-trip destinations. From here, an enthusiastic cyclist can comfortably reach the tranquil Portopetro and the beautiful double sandy cove of Cala Mondrago, possibly the island′s most beautiful spot for a swim. Then, at the southernmost point of Mallorca, Cap de ses Salines, awaits a "Far," to illuminate the path of solitary coastal walkers.