Pedruxella Gran, a Historic Villa & Farm in Mallorca, Spain

Shhh … this ancient hilltop estate is a true secret on Mallorca! I only recently discovered this spectacular villa outside the medieval village of Pollença, near the Spanish island's northern coast. I was tipped off to Pedruxella Gran by its owner, Elizabeth Barratt-Brown, a D.C.-based environmental attorney and one of my Insiders. The 620-acre farm and olive grove has been in her family for 40 years, and they've renovated the entire place. The grand farmhouse is ideal for a large family (there's room for a nanny) or for a few couples to share. Elizabeth has quietly started renting Pedruxella to others beyond her circle of friends, and I've got the scoop:

"Pedruxella is an opportunity to go back in time," she told me. "Our fortress-like house is more than 1,000 years old, and includes a 13th-century Moorish watchtower. It's like coming into your own world, surrounded by wildlife and 360 degree views. We've upgraded the house with modern amenities and filled it with traditional Mallorcan furniture and colorful woven fabrics made by local artisans."

I love the spacious courtyards and dining terraces that just beg for festive dinner parties, which you can cook up in the gourmet kitchen! Additional authentic flair comes from fireplaces in most rooms, a new pool built into an old grain mill, and the pièce de résistance: an oak beam olive press which they use to produce organic oil. (Go during the fall harvest to pick olives and watch their horse pull the crushing stone around the mill; if you don't require a villa, Elizabeth recommends Son Brull, her friend's hotel nearby.) Keep in mind that Pedruxella is private home so is largely self-catering. There's an English-speaking caretaker, and a maid comes 2 to 3 times per week to clean, but you'll have to pay her extra to do laundry (or do it yourself in the new laundry room). A chef can be arranged in advance. Elizabeth prefers to rent to no more than a party of 10, and requests that smokers light up outside.

What to do? The house has TV and Wi-Fi, but you'll be exploring the farm full of sheep and gardens. Spend your days hiking, hunting, caving or bird watching, or head to beach coves and golf courses. "There are tons of fun things to do near us," says Elizabeth. "But then you come back from the mad tourist areas to our beautiful, quiet farm with doves flying over the patio in the evening." Ahhh, sounds like paradise indeed! 45 minutes from Palma Airport.

From €4,700 to €6,700 per week depending on season; rents Saturday - Saturday but that's flexible off-peak.

SUZANNE'S FILES EXCLUSIVE: Mention "Suzanne's Files" when booking and receive a 10% discount in May, June, August, September or October 2009, and a 15% discount in other months; additional discounts if you book more than one week. Plus, you'll be greeted with a bottle of Pedruxella's own Extra Virgin olive oil and a basket of seasonal veggies from their farm. (NB: Pedruxella is booked June 14 - August 8, and the last week of November, 2009.)

Contact pedruxella@pedruxella.com to learn more about or book a stay at Pedruxella.