Housed in three historic palaces, the Faustino Gran hotel in Menorca has a restrained style that nonetheless offers up the ultimate in comfort and relaxation
Words: Ruth Bell
Located in the historic centre of Ciutadella on the west coast of Menorca, the Faustino Gran is also nestled within 15 acres of pine forest and within easy access of some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The hotel’s white walls, tiled floors and arched ceilings reflect its 16th to 18th century origins and give it a classic Mediterranean feel. However, this is just the bare bones of the hotel and there is nothing plain about its overall look and feel. It is filled with features that recall its rich history and has been designed with effortlessly stylish yet comfortable touches at every corner.
The range of beautiful bedrooms and suites includes those with their very own terraces, some even featuring a bath for alfresco soaking (see featured image, top). The suite shown above is an open-plan space and has luxurious touches such as a freestanding bath within the room. A change of flooring from warm wood to slate tiles delineates the bathroom area. Note: if you’ve always liked the idea of a bath in your bedroom, it’s not only a must to surround it with waterproof flooring, but this will also make the bath a focal point too.
In keeping with the theme of simple Mediterranean style, wicker pendant lights hang either side of the beds. However, modern comforts include an upholstered headboard and individual reading lights that can be angled for each sleeper’s convenience. This is a top tip, as visually interesting pendants often don’t provide the targeted lighting you need.
The ensuite bathrooms (above) at the Faustino Gran are elegant in their simplicity. In keeping with the décor elsewhere, white is the predominant shade, but it is offset with luxurious stone panelling and warm metallic brassware and accessories. Contemporary pendant lights add a focal point above each basin.
The Faustino restaurant (above) is housed on the patio and offers the ultimate in alfresco dining. Though undoubtedly elegant, it also has an emphasis on comfort, with upholstered seating and generous cushions, plus both adequate shade and good lighting. This is key when you’re designing an outdoor eating area – think about shading overhead and seating that is a pleasure to relax in!
Delphine Nény is the artist responsible for the charmingly painted birds and lush trees seen on the walls of the public areas of the hotel, including the bar (above). It adds character and interest and to the white walls, while still drawing your gaze upwards to the beautiful curves of the high ceilings. Otherwise, the bar needs little adornment – chairs upholstered in subtle shades are the perfect complement to the original stone floors (below).
Native trees, flowers and plants are the only addition to the splendid setting of the patio courtyard with swimming pool (above), which also enjoys splendid views of Menorca Cathedral. This and many of the outdoor terraces show the influence of the island’s Arab past.
For more information on the beautiful Faustino Gran – and to book your stay – visit the website.
If you’re inspired by these fabulously simple and stylish interiors and are looking for more, check out our feature on Herdade da Matinha in Portugal’s Vincentine Coast Natural Park.
