Xescas house on the outskirts of the beautiful town of Binissalem was exactly what we needed for our one-week holiday in Majorca. The home is fitted out as if Xesca lived there herself, i.e. it is not some generic, bland guest house, but full of personal touches, e.g. loads of books, pictures on the walls, ornaments, a beautiful garden with lemon and orange trees heaving under the load of their fruits, a kitchen equipped with everything one might need to cook an elaborate meal, maps and information leaflets, an open fireplace (great for cold winter evenings), you name it.
The location is perfect for those wishing to explore the island by car: Palma (20 mins), Pollença (30 mins), Soller (35 mins), the northern beaches (30-40 mins), the airport (20 mins). Binissalem is also located on the Palma-Alcudia train line.
The house is a five-minute walk from Binissalem town centre offering a plethora of bars and restaurants, most of which serve simple but delicious local food. If you care for high-end Mallorcan food, there are at least two top restaurants in the nearby town of Lloseta. Inca, less than 10 minutes by car, has a number of cellars - rustic mallorquin restaurants in former bodega wine cellars.
Binissalem itself doesn't look like much from the main road, yet it's a very attractive small town on the inside, always with a view of the Tramuntana mountains. There isn't much in the way of mainstream tourism; even in summer few tourists remain in town in the evenings. Therefore, the bars and restaurants cater mainly for the locals, which is great if you want to see what country life in Majorca is like. There is live music every Saturday at the s'Hotel bar, and every Thursday evening there is a "Tapas Route" where most bars serve a drink and a small plate for next to nothing.
The locals really appreciate it if you practise your mallorquin on them, no matter how little you know. ;)
Sure, if you're after a family beach holiday, this place is not for you, but if you're interested in exploring the island by car, bicycle or on foot and/or want to find out about the real life in Majorca, then you couldn't find a better base. We will definitely be back!