The interior of Mallorca is mainly agricultural, with a high proportion of the land dedicated to vines, almond and fruit trees. This agricultural heritage has resulted in many of the old manor and farmhouses being turned into rural tourist accommodation. Many of these rustic hotels, also known as 'fincas' the Spanish word for estates, are overflowing with character. Fully modernised but retaining the charm of the original buildings, they offer a unique and peaceful escape at an exceptionally good price.
Generally, fincas have an informal home-from-home atmosphere with between four and ten bedrooms, pretty gardens and a swimming pool. These hotels provide modern facilities in the bedrooms, including WiFi and satellite TV, as well as breakfast and sometimes evening dining options.
Some of the most beautiful fincas are situated to the west of the plain, close to the mountains with a magnitude of outdoor pursuits on offer, including cycling and hiking, on your doorstep. The east offers the best beaches, caves and a more relaxing pace of life. Keep an eye out for the rural hotels within close proximity to famous beauty spots of Sóller, Deià, Valldemossa and Pollença, and be sure to scope out the hidden treasures around Campos, Binissalem, Llucmajor, Santanyi, Alaró, Artá and Felanitx.
It is strongly recommended to rent a car whilst staying in these retreats, allowing you the freedom to get to and from local villages and towns, explore the countryside and visit the island's beautiful beaches. Mallorca is relatively small and wherever you choose to stay, you are unlikely to be more than a 20-minute drive away from the sea.