“While much of the property’s elegantly conserved period character feels frozen in time, a subtle modernisation has ensured bedrooms and common areas all offer the contemporary comfort you’d expect from a luxury stay.”
Nestled deep in the Mallorcan countryside stands this wonderful example of a traditional centuries-old estate, surrounded by a vast swathe of landscaped gardens, olive groves and fragrant orchards. The impressive nine-bedroom mansion is located a short drive from the sleepy small town of Porreres, in the rural heartland of the island. You’re still less than half-an-hour’s drive from some of Mallorca’s most iconic beaches, such as Es Trenc, while the buzzing capital of Palma is just 40 minutes by road.
The Design
When it comes to finding a perfectly preserved slice of rustic-historic Mallorca, you’d be hard pressed to find a better example than Casa Duquesa. It was built in the 17th century, as a country estate and working farm and has maintained every bit of its rural grandeur through the years. Approaching the main house, the broad honey-hued facade lined with green shutters and topped with terracotta makes for a wonderful first impression. Walk inside, and it’s like stepping back in time, with its mix of flagstone floors, exposed timber beams and myriad of original historical features.
While much of the property’s elegantly conserved period character feels frozen in time, a subtle modernisation has ensured bedrooms and common areas offer all the contemporary comfort you’d expect from a luxury stay. Cosy lounges and broad terraces are filled with the likes of comfy couches and squishy armchairs. Rooms are filled with natural light, together with an artful blend of original hand painted tiling and colourful contemporary paintings. Outside, too, maintains the perfect balance of old-world charm and holidaying pleasure, with 150 acres of grounds to explore and a lovely secluded terrace pool area where you can relax and cool off in style.
The Details
The large, green-mosaic lined swimming pool is certainly a highlight of this historic villa – modern addition, but one that fits beautifully into the setting. Steps lead into this generously proportioned pool (75 square metres), which is more than long enough for a decent swim. The sun terraces here are spread over two levels, with a pool house occupying the upper terrace, complete with a chill-out area, bathroom and summer kitchen.
There are two modern fully-equipped kitchens in the main house, too, including one set up for big events (there’s a chapel here as well if you’re looking for somewhere to tie the knot). A regal dining room is perfect for grand suppers, but you’re more likely to be enjoying meals alfresco on the terrace with lovely views over the surrounding campo. You’ll find plenty of spots for relaxing with a book or a sundowner while gazing over the picturesque surroundings.
The villa’s nine bedrooms sleep up to 18 guests, so ideal for large groups of friends or extended families. Decor is traditional yet bright, with Mallorcan ikat fabrics, antique furnishings and plenty of period charm. All rooms have their own ensuite bathroom, most with walk-in showers with some adding freestanding soaking tubs.
