The first in the series will take place at Son Bunyola withJuan Antonio Flecha and José Pizarro
21 November 2024 – Virgin Limited Edition, Sir Richard Branson’s unique collection of award-winning hotels and retreats, has partnered with LeBlanq, curators of the world’s most luxurious cycling and culinary escapes, to launch an exclusive series of the latter’s signature Joyride Experiences. The first in the planned series will take place at Son Bunyola Hotel & Villas in Mallorca during 27-30 March 2025. The expertly curated three-night escape will combine breathtaking cycling routes through the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Tramuntana mountains, guided by former professional cyclist Juan Antonio Flecha, with exquisite gastronomic menus created by acclaimed Spanish chef José Pizarro.
LeBlanq’s pioneering Joyride Experiences are luxury retreats designed to seamlessly blend world-renowned cycling locations with Michelin-level gastronomy, led by legends from the world of cycling and internationally famous chefs. Each Joyride experience is perfectly and uniquely tailored to its location. Following the inaugural retreat in Mallorca, two further Virgin Limited Edition properties will be announced as hosts for future Joyride Experiences in 2026.
James Bermingham, CEO of Virgin Hotels Collection commented: “We are thrilled to be partnering with LeBlanq to launch a series of the most incredible tailored experiences across several of our Virgin Limited Edition properties. Many of our nine magical retreats are located within some of the world’s best cycling locations, with locally sourced cuisine at the heart of their ethos. Combining this with our shared commitment to offering the most amazing experiences to our guests, and the best personalised service, makes for a really exciting partnership.”
The inaugural experience will take place at Virgin Limited Edition’s 810-acre Mallorcan estate, Son Bunyola, which is home to a 16th century finca hotel that debuted in June 2023, alongside three luxurious private villas. The pinnacle of the long-weekend itinerary will, of course, be the opportunity to join legendary former-professional cyclist Juan Antonio Flecha to ride Son Bunyola and the Tramuntana’s iconic cycling routes. Flecha, winner of the 2004 Züri-Metzgete and Giro del Lazio, as well as the 2010 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, will lead guests along routes of varying difficulty levels, adapted to suit all abilities.
Often described in the UK as “the Godfather of Spanish cuisine”, the critically acclaimed Spanish chef José Pizarro is also on board to curate the gastronomic delights and personally create tailored menus for the retreat. Pizarro is known for his celebrated restaurants in London and Abu Dhabi. He has authored six cookbooks and is a regular guest on popular British TV shows, including Saturday Kitchen and This Morning. His belief in fresh, seasonal and quality ingredients, as well as simplicity, marries perfectly with Son Bunyola’s own culinary philosophy.
The Son Bunyola estate itself lies within the Tramuntana mountains and dates back to the 13th century, benefiting from its own coastline, orchards of home-grown produce and its own vineyard. It’s reputation as a holistic wellness haven makes it the ideal starting point for launching the partnership. During the retreat, guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy a range of wellness activities including yoga sessions, guided hikes of the local area, and racket sports on the estate’s courts.
Rates for LeBlanq’s Joyride Experience at Son Bunyola start from £3,975 per person, including three nights’ accommodation, all meals and selected beverages, riding experiences, test rides, custom Rapha kit and an annual subscription to the RCC. Visit here to book. For more information on Son Bunyola Hotel & Villas visit www.virginlimitededition.com/son-bunyola or email enquiries@virginlimitededition.com
