Talati de Dalt

Not far from one of the island’s fascinating, historical talaiotic villages, amidst scenic countryside of meadows, wild olives and indigenous shrubs, we were delighted to discover this charming early 19th Century farmhouse which has been restored and refurbished over the years by its proud local owners to provide a picturesque and characterful rural retreat.

As we were shown around the spacious grounds, we were particularly captivated by the secluded garden, which blossomed with the rich colours of flowering shrubs, the silvery-grey leaves of mature olives and the ripening fruits of lemon trees.

Almost entirely encircled by one of the charming stone walls so typical of Menorca’s rustic landscape and bordered by the lush foliage of mature trees and plants, this outdoor area provides the most picturesque of surroundings in which to enjoy the generously proportioned pool, its adjacent sun terraces and the in-built barbecue area which is conveniently located on a terrace just outside the kitchen. At the same time, however, it is within pleasingly easy reach of the island’s south eastern towns and beaches: just 4km away the city of Maó rises above the southern shore of its bustling, restaurant-lined harbour; a cross-country drive of the same distance reveals Sant Climent with its local shops, restaurants and laid-back village ambience; for days on the beach a range of sandy coves can be reached by way of a 15 minute drive.

Within the house itself, lofty ceilings and traditionally deep walls of crisply painted white ensure a pleasing sense of spaciousness throughout smartly furnished rooms. Adding delightful character, original fittings such as an eye-catching front door embedded with colourful stained glass and some typical fireplaces are just some of the charming features that have been carefully retained.