From Sunlit Suppers to Private Palacios: Savoring the Magic of Spain

April 24, 2024 by Hidden Doorways

A favored destination for travelers from far and wide, Spain is a country that’s serious about high-end hotels, tantalizing gastronomy, and experiences so diverse it can be hard to know where to begin. Spoiled for choice in the very best way, we’ve put together this round-up of the newest must-dos from our partners in Spain so you’ll have the crème de la crème of the country at your fingertips.

Take it Outdoors at Mas d’en Bruno 

Set in the heart of Catalonia’s renowned Priorat wine region, Mas d’en Bruno is opening 2024’s season with plenty of newness to shout about. Picture-framing those never-ending vineyard views, from spring onwards its poolside restaurant Tarraco offers sunlit or star-studded suppers best complemented by choosing a wine for its 200-strong cellar (returning guests are invited to start their own private wine collection to make their stay even more memorable). Pre- or post-dinner, guests can wander down to Mas d’en Bruno’s own amphitheater complete with fire pit and abundant green garden. Here they harvest the organic vegetables and herbs served up morning, noon, and night under its “km 0” philosophy to honor locally sourced produce.

Cycling Adventures at Son Net

Nestled amid the rugged beauty of the Tramuntana mountains, Son Net is a palatial retreat with 57,000 square meters of landscape, a private Malvasia grape vineyard, centuries-old olive trees, and a pool flanked by chic, shaded cabanas. The property recently unveiled a boutique cycling program that invites guests to explore the serene landscapes of Mallorca. From leisurely coffee rides to Esporles, where the tranquility of the village complements a vibrant local market, to challenging ascents towards the picturesque villages of Calvià and Capdellà, cyclists can embrace the island’s diverse terrain at any level of experience. Discover Palma’s historic center on two wheels, navigating cobblestone streets and enjoying seaside vistas, with the iconic Coll de Sa Creu awaiting on the return. For the adventurous, the ‘Challenge’ route through Banyalbufar and Estellencs follows spectacular coastal roads but demands good physical fitness and cycling prowess. Each route is designed to showcase the rich tapestry of Mallorca’s landscapes, making every pedal a moment to cherish.

Private Villas & Privileges Aplenty at Finca Cortesin 

The sister hotel to Son Net, this sprawling 532-acre Andalusian estate reopened for the 2024 season with its championship golf course, collection of private villas, and impressive 67 award-winning suites welcoming all those who enjoy the finer things in life. Overlooking the shimmering Mediterranean, shouldered by Marbella and Sotogrande, Finca Cortesin’s location gives guests a taste of the luxe, the historic, and the peace and solitude of the Andalusian coast. Choose one of its private villas that range from four to six bedrooms – with ensuites, state-of-the-art kitchens, private gardens and pools – and lap up all the hotel has to offer too – incredible Japanese cuisine, contemporary art gallery, beach club, heated indoor saltwater pool and all.

Head Out on Horseback at Son Vell 

Explore one of Spain’s lesser-known Balearic Islands on horseback should Menorca’s Son Vell resort be the direction in which your clients are headed. A creature inextricably linked to the island’s history, horses will allow travelers to tread the ancient Camí de Cavalls bridlepath that lies just footsteps from the sanctuary of Son Vell. New for spring 2024, they welcome their own elegant harras of horses to offer lessons for all ages and abilities as well as daybreak and sunset tours of Menorca’s landscapes and coastlines from a whole new perspective. Or, for those who prefer four wheels to hooves, guided island tours in its fleet of luxury 4x4s are on offer too which can sweep guests away to an exclusive and private tour of nearby Cuitadella to uncover galleries and studios with opportunities to meet the artists themselves thanks to Son Vell’s intimate connections with the creative scene. 

The Sweetest of Escapes at Majestic Barcelona 

It’s all go in Spain’s laidback and beachy Barcelona for those staying at its grander than grand hotel, Majestic Barcelona. On top of its already extensive list of luxurious amenities, this February saw a new edible concept arrive at its El Bar del Majestic – Sweet Majestic Pastry Corner. An ever-evolving carousel of sweet creations by its pastry chef will give guests the mouthwatering opportunity to savor seasonal delicacies, from the well-known coca de Sant Joan during the summer solstice to turrones on Three Kings Day. And between seasonal dates of significance, there will be an ever-present display of delicacies including the famous Jean-Marie Hiblot cake, pistachio cookies, almond praline, and gateau de Savoie too so that the finest patisserie in the city is always within reach.

And with the newly announced direct flight from Dallas to Barcelona on American Airlines, jet-setting to Spain for Texans and surrounding states just got a whole lot easier.

Be in Awe of Asturias with Madrid & Beyond

For highly curated custom tours of Spain’s crown jewel hotels and hideaways, it’s hard to beat Madrid & Beyond. From almost untouched areas of Galicia to the very best of the Basque Country, its tailor-made trips are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. For a section of Spain that holds tremendous heritage and a different flavor to the rest of the country, head to Asturias in northern Spain. Small but mighty, this microcosm packs in snow-capped mountains, sandy beaches, raucous fiestas, and silent valleys where bears and wolves roam free. A little cooler than the rest of Spain, it’s a great spot to visit in summer to escape fierce heat and focus entirely on the captivating itinerary its travel specialists have designed. The birthplace of renowned chef Jose Andres, Asturias is a haven for foodies, who can explore everything from humble tapas bars to avant-garde restaurants. Tread in some of the world’s largest dinosaur footprints along the Jurassic Coast; step inside a by-invitation-only family farm to sample Asturias’ centuries-old delicacies grown and crafted just meters away; get lost in never-ending landscapes on a private full-day excursion to the spectacular Picos de Europa National Park check; uncover hidden fishing villages where you’ll taste award-winning anchovies and crisper than crisp ciders before checking into a private palacio with butlers and chefs there to ensure its privileged (and quite possibly adventure-tired!) guests want for absolutely nothing…