hero media

Osa Major: Explore the paradise that is ‘Majorca’s Tuscany’

A rustic finca on the sun-bleached Spanish island of Majorca offers a retreat for the body as well as the soul, writes Tessa Jol.

 

After many holidays spent sailing around Spain’s idyllic Balearic Islands, an archipelago of four main islands off the country’s east coast, Brenda Ooteman and her husband Roland Verbeek decided to do a deeper dive into the destination, setting off to explore the main island of Majorca by motorcycle.

The couple felt instantly connected to the breathtaking nature and picturesque villages they passed through on their travels. And then, in the heart of the island, they found their own piece of paradise on top of a mountain. They had to have it.

“For as long as I can remember, I have had a deep connection with nature," says Brenda. “I grew up in Africa with my bare feet in the sand, being one with the earth’s heartbeat, rhythm and scent. My dad was an engineer and built dams and shipyards in Libya and Nigeria. I was 12 when we moved to the Netherlands where I adjusted with great difficulty. It marked a time in my life when I became certain of my need to connect with nature and be free."

After securing the land, Brenda and Roland set about establishing a finca (rural property) here that would allow them to make the most of the laconic pace of life on Majorca, and the stunning surrounds. But the project took time to realise; the couple could not start building for three years after a previously planned build by a German architect unearthed items and remains of historical significance.

The land sits at the foot of what is believed to have been a holy mountain where the first inhabitants of Majorca built their settlements. Pieces discovered during archaeological investigation seemed to confirm that this particular mountain was used for medicinal rituals by traditional healers.

“It’s peculiar, but when we drove up the gravel road for the first time, we felt the therapeutic effect of this mountain washing over us," says Brenda. “And we didn’t even know its history. An old Majorca man who used a dowsing rod to find water sources confirmed the powerful and pure energy of our mountain."

mallorca Spain Spanish island stay accommodation osa major
Objects sourced from travels adorn the home (photo: Tessa Jol).

No place like home

Now complete, the house, called Osa Major (meaning ‘great bear’, after the constellation as well as the animal’s Native American symbolism of power, wisdom, freedom and motherhood) boasts phenomenal views and an infinity pool. Here, Brenda welcomes and cares for her guests, offering a place to heal body and spirit. She serves vegetarian food and detox shakes, offers massages, meditation and adventurous hikes, and teaches yoga.

“During my travels to Asia – especially to India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka – I discovered the Eastern philosophies of Hinduism and Buddhism and I felt like my spirit was coming home," explains Brenda.

“The teachings fit well into my lifestyle; the art, atmosphere, colours and design. The Zen principles inspired me, and I started to apply it in my interior, art choice, clothing, cooking and even the presentation of the food."

mallorca Spain Spanish island stay accommodation osa major
Osa Major: A peaceful place to sleep in the Mallorca countryside (photo: Tessa Jol).

Is Majorca the new Ibiza?

Situated near Montuïri and Santa Maria del Camí in the heart of Majorca, the area is referred to as the Tuscany of Majorca. It is a perfect comparison given its unspoilt natural surroundings, but the hip and happening atmosphere of the island also begs comparison with the likes of Ibiza as well, albeit a bit more peaceful.

“When we have a free moment, we take a 30-minute drive to our favourite fish restaurant on top of the rocks in Deià, or go to one of my favourite beaches like Muro or Es Trenc for a typical Majorcan late lunch/early dinner. At S’Illot we like to sip on a martini while the sun sets into the mountainous landscape and erratic coastline. And Palma is buzzing with design concept stores, fusion food restaurants and hip beach clubs."

Osa Major, which was completed in 2011, possesses a bohemian soul that allows it to sit harmoniously within the rugged landscape and the laid-back culture of the island.

“We spent the first years figuring out how to best set up a self-sufficient lifestyle. We had nothing: no water, no electricity, not even a normal road. Building our home, installing wells, building a swimming pool, and installing solar panels and a generator took a lot of time and effort," remembers Brenda. “We experienced common setbacks such as our contractor going broke and the ‘tranquilo’ mentality of the Spanish."

But in spite of all of this, the island got into their blood. For a while the couple flew between the island, their home in the Netherlands and a rental in Venice Beach in LA, where Roland’s company, Spinn Coffee, is based. But ultimately they felt drawn to Majorca as their home base.

mallorca Spain Spanish island stay accommodation osa major
Tuscany comes to the Balearic Islands: Osa Major, Mallorca (photo: Tessa Jol).

Inside out: interiors inspired by Shamanism

And then the guests started to arrive. “We didn’t plan to make Osa Major into a guest retreat, but our friends and family visited this magic place so often that the concept naturally evolved," according to Brenda.

“My walks along the beautiful coastline with its romantic bays became popular too. Now I offer a hiking program. Everything just came together at the right time in the right place. I think it is no coincidence that Osa Major is now a place where people can feel at peace and reconnect with themselves and with nature; it is a place to enjoy sunshine, the pool, delicious meals and the beautiful surroundings."

The interiors of the house lend it a considered, rustic feel, mixing a barefoot luxe vibe with eclectic influences and objects, many inspired by, and brought home from, Brenda and Roland’s extensive travels.

“I am a true collector and I like to hang things on hooks, branches and statues. Lately I have been inspired by Shamanism. I feel a deep connection with [its principles], which show respect for everything that is living and non-living: everything has a soul, even a rock."

Guests can stay in the Aboriginal room, which is decorated with images by the celebrated British photojournalist Jimmy Nelson, a friend of the couple’s, whose portraits of tribes and indigenous peoples around the world are truly breathtaking. There’s also cosy teepees and recently, Brenda added a yurt perched on a mountain to the Osa Major room roster. And there are always new plans on how to become that little bit more self-sufficient.

“This year, I’d like to build my own produce and herb garden, and orchard with mangoes, kiwis and lemons," Brenda explains. If she approaches this project with the zest and determination she has put into every aspect of Osa Major, it is a given that it will happen.

 

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

Details: Osa Major, Majorca

Getting there: Vueling Airlines has daily flights from Barcelona to Palma; flying time is 50 minutes. Osa Major is a half hour’s drive from Palma de Majorca Airport.

Staying there: Osa Major offers guests retreat-based stays concentrating on yoga, good food and lots of sunshine, or it can be exclusively booked.

MORE… 5 you-really-shouldn’t-miss Majorca highlights

Want to see more stories from International Traveller in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set International Traveller as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "International Traveller". That's it.

View profile and articles
La Sagrada Família’s exterior is finally complete – but it’s not over yet
Barcelona

La Sagrada Família’s exterior is finally complete – but it’s not over yet

Here’s why it took 144 years to complete Spain's most iconic building.

Read more
la sagrada familia aerial shot
Barcelona

Thousands of free tickets to La Sagrada Família are up for grabs

Here's your chance to see the inside of La Sagrada Família for free.

Read more
casa batllo's blue exterior
Barcelona

Gaudi’s Casa Batlló opens its hidden second floor to the public for the first time

Visitors can now explore this once-secret section of Casa Batlló, which will host contemporary art exhibitions.

Read more
the Azimuth rooftop bar, Almanac Barcelona
Barcelona

The 21 dreamiest Barcelona accommodation

The Catalonian capital is no hidden secret, but we can’t help but pursue our passionate love story with Barcelona – especially when we spy these hotels.

Read more
hero media

What the European heatwave means for your summer travel plans

    Rachael Thompson Rachael Thompson
    Continue
    Temperatures are soaring this summer, breaking records across Europe and the UK. 

    Euro summer is a feeling like no other. But when a heatwave hits? The dream trip quickly turns into a sweaty mess. Extreme heat is sweeping Europe and the UK this week, with record-high temperatures impacting travel plans across the continent.

    And while Australian summers are typically hotter in absolute temperature, many European cities aren’t equipped for high temperatures, resulting in unbearable weather.

    Why is it so hot in Europe?

    Signs of a hot summer loomed in May, when the mercury hit unprecedented spring highs. Now, extreme high temperature warning alerts have been issued in countries such as Spain, Italy, France, England, the Netherlands and Germany.

    France saw its hottest day on record on Wednesday, with an average temperature of 30°C across the day and night. This surpasses the average temperature for June, which is 15°C to 25°C. Dozens of people have died, including 40 from drowning.

    In Spain, 212 deaths have been linked to the heatwave.

    The UK recorded its hottest June day ever on Wednesday with temperatures soaring to 36.1°C. In an article published by the Met Office – the UK’s national meteorological service – Professor Stephen Belcher CBE, Met Office Chief Scientist, shared his concerns about June’s heat. “To see temperatures like this in the UK in June is sobering. Events like this bring home the implications of climate change, with very high temperatures and humidity bringing significant health implications from heat stress, as well as impacts to a range of sectors such as transport, energy and water supply,” he said.

    Heatwaves are becoming increasingly common in Europe and the UK, neither of which is prepared for such extremes. The World Meteorological Organization reported that in 2025, at least 95% of Europe experienced above-average annual temperatures and that the continent was heating up twice as fast as the global average.

    How travel is impacted

    A pharmacy sign displaying 40 degrees Celcius
    A pharmacy broadcasting local weather data. (Credit: Getty/Dragoncello)

    During a heatwave, power grids, water systems and transport networks can be affected, resulting in disrupted itineraries for travellers. In France, power outages have left thousands without electricity and early closures have been implemented for two of Paris’s biggest attractions, the Eiffel Tower (early afternoon rather than late at night) and the Louvre (two hours early). Eurostar cancelled its London to Paris and Paris to London services from the 22nd to the 25th, and major UK rail companies have been advising travellers to avoid using trains where possible, or to travel during early hours.

    If a heatwave is predicted, being flexible with your itinerary and having fully refundable/changeable tickets is key, as extreme heat can force the cancellation of outdoor activities, impact rail and flight services and change the opening hours of sites and eateries.

    Why does summer in Europe often feel hotter than summer in Australia?

    people swimming in the Canal Saint-Martin in Paris
    People swimming in the Canal Saint-Martin in Paris to cool off. (Credit: Rachael Thompson)

    With some of the highest UV levels in the world, Australians are no strangers to the heat, adapting well to intense weather. But our infrastructure is largely equipped to withstand soaring temperatures with climate-responsive passive design, refrigerated air conditioning or evaporative coolers, as well as swimming spots aplenty.

    Buildings in Northern and Western Europe and the UK, however, are constructed to retain heat and handle frosty winters. The lack of universal air conditioning means it generally feels hotter even though the temperature on your app might not look it. During a heatwave, it can feel like you’re in a sauna as cities act like heat traps.

    How to stay cool and prepare for another heatwave

    Relief is expected across Europe and the UK later this week, but more heatwaves are still possible in the coming months. Summer heat typically peaks in July and August.

    Public transport often doesn’t have air conditioning, and buses in particular can be swelteringly hot. If you’re heading outside or your accommodation has no air conditioning, it’s worth buying a spray bottle and a handheld fan from a pharmacy or tourist stand. Check ahead of time if restaurants and cafes have air conditioning and make a booking in advance. The highest temperatures typically hit between 3pm and 6pm, so aim to head outdoors outside of these hours.

    Rising temperatures invite travellers to enter a more intentional era of seeing the world. Now more than ever is the time to embrace lower-impact “coolcations” and off-season getaways.