Finca Melvin is situated close to the village of San Carlos, an area that was famous in the 1960s and 1970s as a hippy village but that is still popular today with those that enjoy peace, tranquillity and community spirit.
The village enjoys a bohemian yet cosmopolitan ambience, featuring a mix of traditional, modest fincas alongside newer properties that have been built to reflect the style and charm of this beautiful location, all surrounding the beautiful white church at the centre of the village. You’ll find a good selection of bars and restaurants in San Carlos, including the famous Anita’s Bar - once famous with the hippy community as they had the only phone in the village - the original booth is still there (and functional!) today. Whether you’re after a sleepy cafe or a fine-dining experience, you’re sure to find a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and once you’ve enjoyed some of the local delicacies on offer, be sure to stroll through the village to the surrounding shops where you can browse for colourful fashions and charming souvenirs.
While you are staying in the village, Oliver recommends heading to nearby Las Dalias (less than 1km from San Carlos) and visiting the original hippy market, where you’ll find larger-than-life characters and vibrant stalls on the ivy-covered terraces and courtyards. During the summer months, the market is there long into the evening, slowly giving way to the nighttime events that take place on the beautiful open-air terrace, continuing later in the village’s club, Akasha, which features incredible acoustics, cool design, and DJs and live acts from around the world.
San Carlos itself is at a junction that branches off to some gorgeous local beaches, including Cala Lena, Cala Nova and the nudist-friendly Aguas Blancas - all featuring facilities including loungers, parasols, and lifeguards, with restaurants and beach bars nearby. Cala Lena is particularly popular with families as there is good access for pushchairs and the disabled, toilets, clear, shallow waters (ideal for the kids!), and pine trees offering shade - perfect for a secluded and relaxing picnic with family and friends.
Please be aware that the location tab shown on the website is not based on the property's exact location; therefore, all location amenities are an approx of facilities, restaurants, and villages/towns you might find around the property. The property's exact location will be provided to you before arrival and might come along with some recommendations about the area and what to visit.
The Region
Pretty, convenient and family-friendly, the northern village of San Carlos is one of the most charming villages on the island. Once the hippie heart of the island, there is plenty of history soaked into its streets and today still boasts a wonderfully bohemian vibe.
There is a good selection of restaurants and bars - they all have one thing in common; a friendly, welcoming atmosphere; it is easy to get into a conversation here. The surrounding shops invite you to browse through colourful fashion or householding items, here you can find nice souvenirs at reasonable prices.
Nearby beaches include the diminutive and lovely Cala Mastella, Pou des Lleo and the dramatic Cala Boix. Oh, and don’t forget to try the amazing ice cream at Vicio on the main street.
