A charming alternative to Menorca’s busier beach hotels, Cristine Bedfor Hotel sits in the heart of Mahón’s old town, just a minute’s walk from the pedestrianized center. Occupying four adjoining townhouses, this 30-room boutique guesthouse feels less like a conventional hotel and more like stepping into the home of a well-traveled collector with impeccable taste.
Homely yet undeniably stylish, Cristine Bedfor is the creation of designer and antiquarian Lorenzo Castillo, who has packed charm and character into every corner. An eclectic mix of flea market finds, objets d’art, vintage furniture, and a wealth of colorful textures and patterns evoke a vibe that’s both bohemian and evocative of an English country home.
The philosophy here is about celebrating the island—its history, culture, and gastronomy—while staying deeply committed to sustainability. The entire guesthouse is plastic-free, the restaurant sources ingredients from nearby farms, water comes in glass bottles, and even the carpets are made from recycled plastic.
Thoughtfully conceived to offer a warm welcome year-round, the cozy beamed lounge and library—stocked with books and games—feature roaring fireplaces in winter. Baskets of blankets invite guests to linger outdoors in cooler months, while in summer, the patios and shady terraces with inviting seating nooks truly shine.
What you might not expect to find in the center of town is a perfectly private, stone-lined pool tucked away in the secret garden. Stretching from the back of the property, the pretty, flower-filled gardens are enchanting, with tinkling fountains and sunbeds under leafy trees—an urban oasis in every sense. At the far end, a small but well-equipped fitness center and massage room let guests stay grounded in their wellness routine.
Cristine Bedfor’s location offers a rare combination of tranquility and convenience. Tucked on a quiet street in Mahón’s gentrified old quarter, it’s just a minute to the main squares and café-filled streets, and less than five minutes to the stunning port. (If you don’t fancy the walk, a dramatic glass elevator will whisk you down in seconds.) Menorca’s beaches and bucolic countryside are just a 15-minute drive away.
Each of the 30 rooms is different, with its own charm—think soaker tubs in the middle of the room, rooftop terraces, or exposed blue-painted beams. Some embrace rustic island character, while others lean more refined, with botanical prints and plush upholstery. For the best views, request one of the fourth- or fifth-floor rooms (note: not all have elevator access). For an extra dose of authenticity, opt for a room in the oldest section, where sloping ceilings and original architectural details evoke a strong sense of place.
What you won’t find in your room is a television or telephone—a deliberate choice that encourages guests to disconnect. (For the digitally dependent, tablets are available on request.) Instead, you’ll find luxurious touches: embroidered linens, sumptuous mattresses, fluffy towels, and locally made bath products in refillable metal bottles.
Chef Pau Sintes, who won the "European Young Chef Award" at age 21, heads up the culinary program, La Cocina de Cristine. Dozens of local producers supply the kitchen with everything from Menorcan sea salt and sobrasada to world-famous Mahón cheese, seasonal vegetables, and freshly caught seafood. Expect hearty, modern cuisine rooted in tradition and infused with international flair. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and picnic hampers can be prepared on request.
In keeping with the guesthouse’s “make yourself at home” spirit, there’s also an honesty bar, stocked with premium spirits, teas, and soft drinks, available 24/7.
This is a property that celebrates the pre-loved, breathing new life into historic buildings and embracing vintage finds. It’s a seamless blend of preservation and innovation, creating a hospitality experience as authentic and multifaceted as Menorca itself.
Top Takeaways
Location: Mahón, Menorca, Spain
Rating: 4-Star
The vibe: Homely yet stylish with eclectic, vintage décor, Cristine Bedfor blends Menorca’s charm with an artsy, bohemian atmosphere.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: The beautiful, private stone-lined pool hidden in the tranquil garden – an urban oasis in the heart of Mahón.
Food + Drink: Seasonal Menorcan cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, all curated by European Young Chef Award winner Pau Sintes. Don’t miss the homemade sobrasada and the signature Mahon cheese!
Amenities: Secret garden pool, wellness center, a cozy lounge with a fireplace, an honesty bar, and a unique culinary program.
What’s nearby? Just a short walk from Mahón's charming pedestrian streets and the stunning port, with easy access to Menorca’s beaches and countryside.
Rooms: 30 individually designed rooms, from rustic island-style to elegant botanical suites, each offering luxury touches like embroidered linens and locally made bath products.
Pricing: Rooms start from $150 (€130) per night.
Closest Airport: Menorca Airport
