SIR RICHARD BRANSON'S NEW HOTEL, SON BUNYOLA, OPENS TO FANFARE IN MALLORCA, SPAIN.

The magnificent property acquired by Sir Richard Branson over 25 years ago was unveiled as a majestic hotel with great fanfare last month. Son Bunyola Hotel, a Virgin Exclusive Edition, is situated between Mallorca's UNESCO-protected Tramuntana Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea on the picturesque northwest coast of Mallorca.

The Son Bunyola estate spans over 200 hectares (680 acres), with lush vineyards, reintroduced citrus orchards, olive groves and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Those in search of a peaceful sanctuary of tranquillity and calm will find a secluded haven. The property has been transformed, blending contemporary elegance with rustic charm. The décor is inspired by the island's colour palette of nature and culture with neutral tones and soft olive hues. Crossing the threshold, guests will find original stone flooring, wood-beamed ceilings, antique wooden doors, rustic wood furniture and traditional Mallorcan woven fabrics. Each of the 26 beautifully designed rooms and suites has a unique character, including two striking Tower Suites, one of which was originally a 13th-century defence tower. Rooms offer stunning vistas towards the sea, lush gardens and mountains, and some have private balconies. The overall effect is sumptuous yet unpretentious and feels homely.

The hotel's opening ceremony on a midsummer evening attracted distinguished guests, celebrities, and industry leaders to witness the unveiling. The sophisticated celebration included live music and showcased the hotel's excellent cuisine. Still, the real showstopper was the presence of Sir Richard Branson, who shared his passion and vision for his latest hotel.

"I fell in love with this property twenty-five years ago," says Branson. "It took me as long to get people into outer space as it did to build Son Bunyola," he joked, recalling the ups and downs of the hotel build and the challenges obtaining permits. "The positive thing about taking so long to make it a reality is that the environment and its coast have been preserved. We have to fight to keep it that way."

In his address to guests, Branson spoke about his vision behind the Virgin Exclusive Edition brand, emphasising commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. In restoring Son Bunyola, great efforts were made to preserve the original building, incorporate eco-friendly practices and preserve its natural surroundings. The property harnesses renewable energy sources and utilises energy-efficient technologies, with a biomass boiler powered by recycled wood chippings. Water is from a natural well, with grey water being reused for irrigation.

Branson's charisma and enthusiasm were palpable as he interacted with guests, sharing personal anecdotes and insights into the hotel's creation. I enjoyed chatting with the man who has transformed industries and left an indelible mark on the world. He tells me the Son Bunyola estate is open for everyone to enjoy. Non-resident guests can stop by for coffee, lunch, dinner or a cocktail in Sa Terassa or tapas in Sa Tafona, housed within the historic olive press.

I was excited that guests wellness has been considered in Branson's vision for the hotel. There is a stunningly positioned 28-meter infinity pool (heated in cooler months) with an adjacent jacuzzi and two treatment rooms offering a wide array of facials, body treatments and massage. Complimentary yoga and pilates sessions are offered most days in addition to private sessions, and there's a yoga mat for all guests as a gift in every room. The hotel offers a plethora of activities to keep the family occupied, including tennis, hiking, cycling, watersports, creative workshops and cookery classes, with a delightful array of activities available for children.

The opening of Son Bunyola Hotel, the latest addition to the Virgin Exclusive Edition, marks the beginning of a remarkable chapter in Mallorca's hospitality landscape. The combination of Richard Branson's visionary leadership and the breathtaking beauty of the Son Bunyola estate has resulted in a new standard of retreat. As the doors of this exquisite hotel open to guests, they are invited to embark on a transformative journey of relaxation, luxury, and environmental consciousness. The opportunity to relax in such a serene and idyllic environment is truly a gift for the soul.