Almost a year ago, I wrote a review about my stay at Es Racó d’Artà, an agrotourism retreat in the heart of the Mallorcan countryside. I know there are thousands of places to unwind, more eye-catching, more luxurious…, but they’re not Es Racó. It doesn’t impose relaxation on you; it gives it to you without you even realising. You arrive with your mind racing, but gradually the fresh air, the views, and that natural silence help you slow down.
With facilities that strike a perfect balance between rustic and modern, using local and sustainable materials, yet without losing an ounce of comfort, it demonstrates that it’s not necessary to sacrifice luxury for eco-friendliness.
Writing reviews isn’t something I usually do, unless the place has given me something significant enough to feel like sharing it. That was the case on my first visit and stay, and it was the same during this most recent, shorter visit, which was just as satisfying.
It was no surprise that they recently received the Michelin Key, an accolade that goes far beyond just food. The Michelin Key is awarded to places that significantly enhance the traveller’s experience, and Es Racó d’Artà does this with distinction. Being rated excellent in categories such as architecture and interior design, service quality, and personality — but most importantly, guest experience — is a true reward for things done well.
The food… Ah, the food. This is where the real magic begins. Everything they serve comes directly from their own garden, and you can taste it in every bite. The freshness of the ingredients, the authentic flavours, and the presentation of the dishes make you appreciate the food in a whole new way.
Speaking of experiences, which is the reason for this well-deserved article, I must mention the dinner we enjoyed a few nights ago with my wife. The menu change had come with glowing reviews from friends, so we couldn’t resist. The staff live up to the place: friendly, polite, attentive, and invisible when they need to be. Something that, these days, is hard to come by.
I must give special thanks to Tom, who guided us through the menu with such skill that we couldn’t resist his recommendations. What’s more, he’s not just knowledgeable about the products but truly lives and breathes them, and it shows. None of the dishes disappointed: authentic flavours, top-quality ingredients handled with respect, which left us completely charmed.
I’m not one for recommending specific dishes or listing off the menu. I think it’s something you should experience for yourself, so I avoid creating unnecessary expectations.
One detail I can’t overlook: the atmosphere of the restaurant. We were able to talk quietly, without raising our voices — something that nowadays feels like a luxury. The place encourages you to lower your tone, almost to a whisper, because there’s a respectful silence that all the diners seemed to understand. That tranquillity makes you enjoy the food and the company even more, without distractions.
And if you’re tempted to stay the night (because believe me, you will be), everything’s within reach, although not for every budget. The truth is, places like this do come with a high price tag, and that’s no secret.
EIn short, I hope that if you have the chance to visit this little gem nestled in the mountains of Artà, you enjoy it as much as we did.
Source and Images: Villegas Photo
Leave a Reply