This must be the place. It sits at the foot of the Alaro twin peaks, the gateway to the Tramuntana mountain range, an area that has gained popularity in recent years. Under a sky full of stars, there's a 13th-century estate on a 40-hectare property. Designed as a private hotel, it offers complete privacy and unforgettable experiences. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, this secluded retreat focuses on tranquillity, great food, and sustainable living.
Published 15 July, 2024
“The earth has music for those who listen” - Shakespeare
Mats Wahlstrom, owner of the estate, believes the right location can change everything in life. With art gathered from years of travelling, the farm mixes Spanish, North African, and American Wild West influences. It is reminiscent of the bold, intense, eccentric style of Quentin Tarantino.
Son Fuster makes no compromise on quality. The farm was recently renovated to world-class standards, even adding special “Spirit of the Nomad” Egyptian cotton bed linens and towels that are top-notch. Service is laid-back yet attentive, and all experiences will be adjusted to match your preferences.
Written by My Private Villas
Spirit of Son Fuster - “Possessió”
Son Fuster is a historic estate seamlessly blending old-world charm with cutting-edge technology to offer luxurious living and exceptional sustainability. Located in Mallorca, this manor house and farm, traditionally known as a “possessió”, ensures exclusive use for ultimate privacy. Unlike many other European estates, possessiós were historically self-sufficient, supporting diverse agricultural activities like farming, livestock rearing, and wine production.Son Fuster provides year-round satisfaction. It includes 10 spacious double bedrooms arranged around a charming courtyard, expansive sun terraces, and a beautifully landscaped lawn featuring a volleyball court. The estate also boasts a stunning pool, accompanied by a Geneva sound system, a private spa, and a cosy cinema room. The interiors, redesigned by Scandinavian experts, prioritise comfort and insulation. Dedicated staff members ensure privacy while catering to every need, from personalised dining experiences to a range of recreational activities like horse riding and yoga. Groups can enjoy a private nightclub, while families with children can enjoy amenities such as a sandpit, board games, and nanny services.
Alaró: A place under the stars
Set against the Tramuntana mountains, Alaró is a tranquil town of 5,000 residents in Mallorca that enchants visitors with its stunning scenery and rich history. Its narrow stone streets wind through a landscape dominated by the flat twin mountains and the ancient Castell d’Alaró, offering a journey through the centuries. Lonely Planet recommends hiking to Castell d’Alaró for travellers seeking a blend of adventure and history. This rock castle, mentioned in documents dating back to AD 902 during an invasion of Muslim conquerors, was renowned for its nearly impregnable position. Legend has it that on one of its stones remains an imprint of a horse’s hoof—a mark left when King James I’s horse rose in readiness for battle against the enemy. The area is beloved by cyclists and hikers alike, drawn to its beautiful nature.
In the heart of Alaró lies Place de la Vila, a bustling square surrounded by inviting bars and restaurants that offer a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll or indulge in treats like ice cream from the popular local parlour. For those seeking a unique souvenir, the Tony Mora factory shop allows visitors to create personalised cowboy boots, selecting leather, stitching, and embroidery to their taste. Alaró also serves as an ideal base for exploring Mallorca’s almond orchards, particularly during spring when the island bursts into bloom with almond trees adorned in white and fuchsia flowers. Alaró, with its serene charm and array of historical and natural attractions, promises a memorable experience for every visitor.
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Gastronomy and Sustainability
Embracing the essence of traditional dining, Spirit of Son Fuster’s organic farm-to-table experience is a celebration of sustainability and quality. The focus is on providing slow, mindful meals that are both nourishing and delicious. Fresh, organic ingredients sourced from local farms and neighbourhoods are at the heart of their offerings, ensuring every dish is of the highest standard. Enjoy premium meats and fish, presented in a rustic, communal style, alongside a bountiful selection of seasonal vegetables and vibrant salads. Between meals, indulge in a variety of fresh fruits, artisanal cakes, and healthy snacks. You will enjoy a 24-hour self-service bar offering an array of refreshing beverages at your leisure. There is also a dedicated chef who is always ready to accommodate any special dietary needs, ensuring each meal is a personalised culinary delight.Experiences for the Body and Soul
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." — Helen Keller
Spirit of Son Fuster is among the few properties that have a special focus on the range of experiences it offers. If you can dream it, you can do it. Helicopters can take off from the on-site helipad for an Ibizan lunch or a scenic tour around the island. If you are a fan of horse riding, you can spend a fun day with a guide or trainer. Mallorca also has amazing hiking trails around the Tramuntana mountains. If you would like to arrange a picnic lunch or dinner on the property or watch the sunset from the property’s mountain hangout, the team would be happy to help.
To relax, you can treat yourself in the spa composed of an amazing team led by Bettina Papenkort. It is an incredible experience of touch and scent. A wide range of massages and facials are available, all with Bettina’s signature style and using organic products. The luxurious spa area has a steam bath, infrared and traditional saunas, and a massage and beauty treatment room. You can also enjoy a private yoga session or high-altitude training with renowned international trainers.
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Last but not least is music and sounds. Nature provides a soundtrack that matches the vibes of Son Fuster. In addition, every public indoor and outdoor space boasts state-of-the-art speakers and subwoofers that provide energy for the body and mind. The cinema room’s sound system ensures pristine quality even at low levels, while the “Shark Tank” nightclub and yoga space has its own DJ equipment and speaker system, perfect for those moments when you want to push it to the next level.
We spoke with Mats Wahlström, owner of Spirit of Son Fuster, to learn more about his high-end estate.
Interview: Mats Wahlström, owner of Spirit of Son Fuster
What is one unique aspect of the Spirit of Son Fuster?The main aspect that the property is well-known for is its exceptional service levels in a private house setting. Spirit of Son Fuster is a unique and lovingly restored farm mansion that sleeps up to 20 in 10 ensuite bedrooms, giving guests an all-inclusive experience of a boutique hotel in a private villa. Set on a secluded 40-hectare estate a short drive from Palma airport, guests can relax and make the most of their time together with a heated outdoor swimming pool, cinema room, spa with three saunas, gym, and massage room, as well as outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and horse riding. A dedicated team is on hand, including a private chef catering to all requests and a concierge to organise bespoke excursions and activities.
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You have a focus on high-quality home textiles and music systems in the villa. Can you tell us the story behind them and why these are important to you?
The challenge of modernising the finca with state-of-the-art technology required for comfortable living and a high level of sustainability has been an exciting project. I set up my world-class linen company, Spirit of the Nomad, drawing on my experience as a seasoned global traveller and developer of lifestyle hotels and luxury homes. I became more sensitive to the quality of linen, not only in my own home but also when travelling, realising the huge impact it had on sleep, mood, and general wellbeing. I spent six years sourcing the right long-lasting materials and suppliers to create my own brand with high-quality Egyptian cotton produced in Portugal. My main goal was to provide high-quality bed linen to ensure a good night’s sleep for guests.
Music has always been a big part of my life, and I feel it’s an important element in creating mood and atmosphere, both inside and outside the house. Therefore, I ensured an excellent sound system was accessible both inside the villa and by the pool. Ultimately, guests need to feel relaxed when they stay at the farm and enjoy the freedom of the private estate. Guests can choose whatever music they wish to create the perfect atmosphere for any occasion and truly feel at home.
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What makes the area special?
The estate is set at the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, offering sensational views of the mountain landscape and valleys. As an avid traveller, the mountain setting reminded me of Utah, with such a special backdrop. Mallorca is a popular destination and is always highly visited, but the estate, with 40 hectares of land surrounding it, offers exceptional privacy and elevated views of the valley. The location itself is very strategic as it is very quiet and remote but within reach of the bustling areas of Palma and Deia, so that guests can explore all options.
Are there any upcoming projects planned to enhance the property?
I am always working on projects to enhance and improve the property. Recent projects included the refurbishment of the gym, the implementation of a new vegetable garden–which will be fantastic for growing more seasonal ingredients for the chef and providing activities for families who stay–plus imminent plans to add a padel court to the property.
What is the trademark of Spirit of Son Fuster?
I designed the logo, my version of the flower of life, and had it tattooed on my arm 25 years ago. It symbolises my various ventures over the years.
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What insights have you gained from working at Spirit of Son Fuster?
On the property, we meet so many guests from all over the world, and we are so proud that they choose us for their vacation. We love to meet new people and welcome back friends time and time again. We have learned that it is important to never judge a book by its cover and always to expect the unexpected!
How do you handle guests’ requests for additional services?
Whenever guests request additional, new, or off-the-menu services, we are always open and flexible to provide them with what they need! Our cohesive and experienced team is well-equipped to work with high-demand clientele. We handle most requests in-house, but we also have a dedicated concierge manager offsite to assist with more complex requests.
What is the most memorable feedback or review you’ve received from guests?
One of the most memorable experiences was having an entire family in tears because they did not want to leave this haven, which left us all feeling very emotional and bonded. For us, we relish allowing guests to focus on what is important in life – like being a family and enjoying life together – as everything is taken care of for them. Guests often tell us that the house has a lovely spirit, and they feel touched and privileged to have the opportunity to stay here.
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Are there any interesting stories or anecdotes from the property’s history that you’d like to share?
The twin mountains of Alaro, where Son Fuster is set in the foothills, are said to be full of legend and are an entrance to a magical world. The two mountains face each other in a symmetrical way, looking like an entrance or guard to another world – leading to the Castell d’Alaro, which was one of the most important fortresses on the island. The castle provides the most impressive panoramic views of Palma but is also home to Sa Cova de ses Meravellas (the Cave of Wonders), where legend says that witches were hiding with treasures. There is something very mysterious and magical about the mountains.
Are there any nearby events for which Spirit of Son Fuster is a great accommodation option?
The property is just 25 minutes from Palma airport and the coastline, making it well-located for any occasion on the island. It is also a very special location to host a small celebration – such as a wedding, big birthday, or life event. There are also some lovely hotels or fincas nearby for overflow guests. As there is a helipad on site, guests can choose this mode of transport and experience some of the most spectacular views that Mallorca has to offer.
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What dish do you crave the most at Spirit of Son Fuster?
What Spirit of Son Fuster does best is provide guests with the freshest seasonal and local ingredients, herbs, and spices. Mediterranean cuisine is our most requested, but our international chefs can cater to all requests. Lubina a la Sal is excellent, and the chef prepares the sea bass by oven-baking it in salt and filleting it in front of guests, which is a lovely experience.
What activity do you enjoy most as part of your daily routine at the property?
One of the best parts of our job is meeting and greeting all of the wonderful guests from all over the world. Additionally, we have an excellent team who are a pleasure to work with every day, all with an amazing spirit, creating the best working atmosphere. The sunshine also helps!
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From your perspective, what would a perfect day or weekend look like for a guest at Spirit of Son Fuster?
It depends on the group, family, or friends, but an example for a group of friends could be:
- Relaxing and enjoying the freedom of the house and the outdoor space.
- A tapas cooking class or wine tasting with a private chef and wine master.
- Yoga or a 60-minute massage treatment of choice.
- Horse riding or biking along the mountain trails.
- Sundowners at our viewpoint overlooking the property.
- Dinner prepared by the private chef using fresh and seasonal produce from the local markets and vegetable garden, served outside in the balmy Mediterranean weather!
There are also plenty of activities perfect for children that can be incorporated into any stay, including pony riding, swimming lessons, games, cooking with the chef, and movie nights in our private cinema.
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How do you infuse local culture and traditions into the guest experience at your villa?
One of the activities that we provide at the farm is the opportunity to visit the local produce markets with the chef by bike and select ingredients for the desired meal. Guests can then work alongside the chef to prepare the food in the chosen style. We also offer tapas cooking classes and traditional wine tastings to give guests an authentic Spanish feel.
If you could offer guests one piece of advice for making the most of their stay, what would it be?
Use this time to relax and reconnect with friends and family without the stresses of outside life. The house offers so many possibilities, so make the most of every minute.
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