The Big Six: Boutique Balearic retreats

Cap Rocat, Mallorca

This revamped 19th-century military fortress presides over a secluded headland on the Bay of Palma, south-east of the capital. Maintaining its architectural integrity, Cap Rocat recently opened as a luxury hotel where former munitions stores and military quarters have become bedrooms, a gunpowder storehouse hosts special events and the kitchen now serves upscale Mediterranean cuisine and offers wine tasting and cookery classes.

Cap Rocat, Carretera d'Enderrocat, Cala Blava, Mallorca (00 34 971 747 878; caprocat.com ). Doubles start at €324, including breakfast.

Aguas de Ibiza, Ibiza

The east coast town of Santa Eulalia may be the family's choice of Ibizan resort, but one of its swankiest addresses, Hotel Aguas de Ibiza, is aimed squarely at the beautiful crowd. Its decadent rooms are awash with pale stone hues and iridescent fabrics. Guests without a sea-view can head instead up to the rooftop pool and bar where the vista takes in the neighbouring island of Formentera. The restaurant serves modern interpretations of classic dishes.

Hotel Aguas de Ibiza, 9 Salvador Camacho, Santa Eulalia del Rio, Ibiza (00 34 971 319 991; aguasdeibiza.com ). Doubles start at €335, including breakfast.

Son Julia, Mallorca

Just 15 minutes from both Palma and the beaches of the south coast – but deep in the countryside – this 15th-century mansion offers privacy and exclusivity. The 25 rooms are sumptuously decorated in earthy or eye-catching tones. Cycling, swimming pools and tennis are all on offer.

Son Julia Country House Hotel, Carretera De S'Arenal a Llucmajor, Llucmajor, Mallorca (00 34 971 669 700; sonjulia.com ). Doubles start at €180, room only.

Gecko Beach Club, Formentera

On this tiny island's longest beach, Migjorn, Gecko Beach Club offers chic accommodation to the party-weary. Guests can lounge in hammocks in the lush gardens before heading to the restaurant for fresh fish and cocktails.

Gecko Beach Club, Playa Migjorn, Ca Mari, Formentera (00 34 971 328 024; geckobeachclub.com ). Doubles start at €245, including breakfast.

Sant Joan de Binissaida, Menorca

The owners of San Joan de Binissaida have reforested half of their sprawling estate with pine and wild olive trees, leaving the other half for sheep and pure-bred Menorcan horses to roam. In the midst of it all stands a once-decrepit homestead that has been rescued and restored to become an elegant rural hotel with an acclaimed gourmet restaurant. Rooms are named after great composers and are either bright and rustic or sleek and contemporary.

Sant Joan de Binissaida, Cami de Binissaida 108, Es Castell, Menorca (00 34 971 355 598; santjoan.binissaida.com ). Doubles start at €140, including breakfast.

Atzaro, Ibiza

Away from the bustle of San Antonio and Ibiza Town is Atzaro, on the north coast. In this century-old finca, surrounded by orange groves, traditional architecture meets Asian and African influences. Offering a gentler take on the hedonistic isle, Atzaro hosts chill-out DJs and art exhibitions throughout the summer.

Atzaro Agroturismo, Sant Joan, Ibiza (00 34 971 338 838; atzaro.com ). Doubles start at €173, including breakfast.