Jill MedingerTorralbenc is rich in serenity, history, and eco-consiousness.
PHOTOS BY Courtesy of Small Luxury Hotels
On the captivating island of Menorca in Spain’s Balearic archipelago, a unique destination awaits: Torralbenc. It’s not a traditional resort; Torralbenc is a stunning agritourism estate, meticulously restored from a historic farmstead. It offers a connection to the island’s culture and landscape, blending centuries-old heritage with modern, tranquil luxury.
The estate is a collection of historic whitewashed farm buildings; some of its structures date back to the 17th century. These buildings, once a hub of agricultural activity, have been carefully brought back to life, preserving their original architectural integrity and rustic charm. The property is set on a gentle hill, surrounded by its own vineyards and rolling farmlands, providing a spectacular vantage point of the Mediterranean Sea.
Torralbenc’s collection of 27 elegant rooms and cottages each thoughtfully reflect authentic Menorcan charm with the use of natural fabrics, soothing colors, limestone, and wood. A defining feature of these accommodations is the inclusion of private outdoor spaces, each with a balcony, terrace, or a secluded garden.
A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
Torralbenc’s story is woven into the island’s past. When the country house was acquired in 2005, it was largely in ruins, and the expansive lands had been unworked for many years. The painstaking restoration project spanned several years, culminating in the property’s opening in 2013.
The estates’ 190 acres include 35 acres of vineyards, where Torralbenc proudly produces its own-label wine since 2016. The grounds are rich with history, from ancient threshing floors, traditional stables, and the iconic dry-stone walls. The estate stands on land that has uncovered significant archaeological remains dating back to the second millennium BC, including the enigmatic taulas, distinctive T-shaped Talaiotic constructions found exclusively in Menorca.
CULINARY DELIGHTS AND SERENE RETREATS
The gastronomic experience at Torralbenc’s restaurant is a central pillar of its commitment to the “Menorcan slow-life”. Under the expert guidance of Michelin Star chef Gorka Txapartegi, the cuisine embraces simple, honest Mediterranean techniques while deeply honoring the roots of traditional Menorcan gastronomy. A robust “zero-km product policy” is rigorously implemented, ensuring the kitchen prioritizes local and organic ingredients. Many of these ingredients, including their distinctive wines, olive oil, fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and farm-fresh eggs, are cultivated directly on the Torralbenc estate.
The Torralbenc Cellar has garnered significant recognition, notably being awarded “Best Wine Tourism Hotel at the International Wine Challenge Merchant Awards Spain.” The journey to cultivate these vineyards was challenging, transforming hard, chalky, unworked land into productive soil. Today, the vineyard cultivates 10 grape varieties, including Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay.
Torralbenc’s dedicated wellness area offers a comprehensive menu of treatments, including Swedish massages with rosemary essential oils and deeply relaxing Aroma Soul massages, designed to foster both physical and emotional balance.
The property has garnered prestigious accolades, including a Michelin Key from the Michelin Guide and a ranking as the 3rd best hotel in Spain and Portugal by Condé Nast Traveller.
MENORCA ON HORSEBACK
The estate offers horseback rides through the vineyards. The sure-footed Menorcan purebred is a horse renowned for its agility and its integral role in the island’s vibrant local festivities, including the iconic revetlles of San Juan. Each ride is accompanied by a history guide, who provides traditional Menorcan saddles and insights into the history of the cellars. The experience culminates in a guided tasting of Torralbenc’s wines, perfectly paired with a selection of local Menorcan products. No prior riding experience is required, with the route typically lasting about three hours.
For those looking for more expansive exploration, Torralbenc accesses the ancestral “Camí de Cavalls.” This historic 115-mile horseback trail, whose origins trace back to the 14th century, encircles the entire island. Guests traverse diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches and secluded coves, to dramatic ravines.
SUSTAINABILITY AT HEART
At its core, Torralbenc operates with a deep commitment to the island, dedication to sustainability, and responsible stewardship of its natural resources. This ethos is integrated into the design of the property, which blends into the natural environment, utilizing natural raw materials and thoughtful landscaping. Operationally, Torralbenc implements a comprehensive recycling plan and is proactively pursuing a zero-plastic policy. Furthermore, the property actively strives for self-sufficiency, leveraging a centralized system of renewable energy, primarily through solar panels, to supply a substantial portion of the energy required for hot water and air conditioning across the hotel.
The zero-km product policy championed in its acclaimed restaurant, which involves working exclusively with local suppliers, significantly reduces emissions while simultaneously fostering local job creation. This holistic approach elevates the property beyond a typical luxury hotel to a destination that offers purposeful, responsible indulgence.