Special Places to Stay - More than a bed for the night

Unravel slowly in the unique charm of Es Pins within sight of pretty Alqueria Blanca. Beautifully renovated, each room in the 18th-century manor has a history to tell, such as the separate suite with arched ceilings that sheltered a Republican soldier during the civil war. A system to feed him was adapted by means of holes, a dining etiquette that has since changed; feasting on fresh tumbet, a local speciality and favourite of the Filipino housekeeper/cook, is no hardship. The gardens are another delight. Stone paths lead from the huge raised pool, one through a sea of oleander, another into an olive grove and a short cross-country walk to the village. Enormous rocks surround a Japanese zen garden and vegetables grown on site are yours for the picking. Original terracotta and hydraulic tiles have been preserved with the old fireplace, while antiques from Lots Road in Chelsea – Harvey's favourite haunt – fill bedrooms without disguising their peachy afternoon glow. The farmhouse has a superb kitchen and all the electro-domestics you could need. Great for families.