Mediterranean Hideaways: Places Not Everyone Knows About Yet

Away from the well-known grand hotels and iconic luxury resorts, a new generation of exceptional boutique retreats is emerging along Europe’s coastlines. From Spain to France and Italy to Greece: we present four hidden gems for the coming summer.

Son Ermità & Binidufà

MENORCA, SPAIN

Based in Asturias, the Vestige Collection is a family-run enterprise with a discerning vision: to rescue historic buildings from decline and impart a contemporary future. Collaborating closely with local artisans, the company crafts boutique hotels that harmoniously blend past and present—in keeping with the Vestige philosophy: “History is only the beginning.”
In Menorca, Vestige brings this mission to life in a particularly impressive way. With Son Ermità, which opened in 2025, and the new Binidufà (opening April 2026), extraordinary retreats have been created in the unspoiled north of the island on a private estate spanning approximately 800 hectares, with access to three virtually untouched coves.

Vestige Binidufà is nestled in a gentle valley of red earth, green hills, and pastures. The boutique hotel features just eleven rooms and suites, designed with natural materials and warm, earthy tones. Much of the furniture is sourced from the in-house Vestige-Estudio and was crafted locally, complemented by antiques and contemporary art. The culinary centerpiece is the vegetarian-inspired restaurant Mesura, while Son Ermità offers its own gastronomic concept based on seafood and local specialties. Shared nature, culture, and wellness programs round out the offerings.





www.vestigecollection.com

Hotel Cap Estel

ÈZE, FRENCH RIVIERA

Situated on a private peninsula between Nice and Monaco, Cap Estel presents itself as a world of its own. A historic villa, modern pavilions, and spectacular suites over the water blend seamlessly with the rocks, garden, and sea. An infinity pool, a spa with panoramic views, and a secluded cove create the feeling of being a guest at a private estate. At the gourmet restaurant La Table du Cap Estel, Kévin Garcia—who previously served as executive chef under Frédéric Anton at Jules Verne in Paris—pampers guests with locally inspired haute cuisine of the highest caliber.


www.capestel.com

Porto Zante Villas & Spa

ZAKYNTHOS, GREECE

Porto Zante is a retreat for those who consider privacy the ultimate luxury. Just a few spacious villas are situated directly on the beach—each with its own pool, garden, and personalized service. The day begins with breakfast overlooking the Ionian Sea, continues with spa rituals or boat excursions to hidden coves, and concludes with fine dining by the water. The sheltered location of the bay enhances a sense of complete seclusion. Two restaurant concepts define the culinary offerings at Porto Zante: At the Club House Restaurant, the emphasis is on Greek and Mediterranean classics, with a particular focus on fish, seafood, and premium cuts of meat. The beachfront Maya restaurant specializes in creative Asian fusion dishes. The experience is further enhanced by bespoke private-dining experiences—from a casual dinner on the sand to a multi-course meal within the privacy of your own villa.





www.portozante.com

Capofaro Resort

SALINA, Aeolian Islands, Italy

Perched high above Salina’s volcanic cliffs, surrounded by Malvasia vines and the seemingly endless horizon, Capofaro commands a windswept promontory of singular beauty. Its whitewashed architecture blends harmoniously into the landscape, while the rooms and suites, with their understated elegance, deliberately leave space for nature, light, and openness. As a member of Relais & Châteaux, the resort also sets culinary standards: Executive Chef Giuseppe Biuso translates the flavors of the Aeolian Islands into modern cuisine, served with fine wines from the resort’s own vineyard.



www.capofaro.it