Casa Cliffhanger II by architect Sir Basil Spence

The highlights are:

• magnificent location with incredible sea views
• many original features, including a raised fireplace and built-in sofas, have been preserved
• designed by the famous architect Sir Basil Spence in the late 60's
• just a short stroll from the picturesque and charming town of Banyalbufar

INTERIOR
Perched on the dramatic coastline of Mallorca’s west, Casa Cliffhanger II stands as a testament to understated mid-century architecture and was designed by the renowned architect Sir Basil Spence in 1966/67. Given its sporadic use, the house was thoughtfully designed to be easily secured when unoccupied.

Spanning 156 m² across two floors and situated on a 380 m² terraced plot, the villa offers an elegant balance between indoor and outdoor living. The upper floor serves as the heart of the home, featuring an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area anchored by a commanding fireplace. A guest toilet and storage room complete the layout, while three surrounding terraces blur the boundaries between interior and exterior. A pergola-covered terrace provides dappled shade, a northern terrace offers a cool retreat, and a balcony opens to panoramic views of the coastline and sea - an ever-changing tableau that can be enjoyed from nearly every room.

On the lower floor, the villa houses three tranquil bedrooms, each with fitted wardrobes, and two bathrooms, one of which is en-suite.

Remarkably, the house remains in its original, near-pristine condition. Its mid-century kitchen and bathrooms evoke a quiet nostalgia, while the material palette - stone, tiles, smooth plaster, and natural wood - creates a tactile, timeless aesthetic. Color arises organically from these surfaces, complemented by whitewashed walls and ceilings.

The design ethos is delightfully unpretentious, drawing attention outward to the breathtaking landscape.

EXTERIOR
The exterior of Casa Cliffhanger is a study in simplicity and deference to its environment. The architecture harmonizes with the rugged terrain, with proportions and forms that follow the natural contours of the land. Echoing Mallorcan traditions, the villa features a sloped gable roof clad in red clay tiles, quarry stone walls, and terraces paved with irregular natural stone slabs. A pergola of robust timber beams and green-painted louvre shutters further embed the house within its regional context.

The overall impression is one of quiet modesty, where architecture serves as a respectful backdrop to the striking natural surroundings.

LOCATION
Set just moments from the historic village of Banyalbufar, the villa enjoys the best of both worlds: convenient access to local shops offering regional delicacies, and a serene setting nestled between the Tramuntana mountains and the Mediterranean. The area is famed for its terraced landscapes, once used to cultivate Malvasia grapes for a renowned local wine.

Nearby attractions include the Sa Volta des General coastal hiking trail, the Torre des Verger watchtower, famed for its sunsets, and the secluded Cala Banyalbufar beach. Whether for hikers, nature lovers, or those seeking refuge from the island’s busier hubs, Banyalbufar offers an authentic slice of Mallorcan culture and tranquility.

Despite its peaceful setting, the bustling city of Palma and its airport are just a 40-minute drive away, making Casa Cliffhanger a truly enviable retreat.