For Olof and Sofia Skarman, travel has always been about more than just a change of scenery. With a family of six children, it’s about space, ease, and creating moments together that linger long after the trip ends. That’s exactly what first drew them to The Hideaways Club back in 2017.

"We joined after attending an event in Stockholm," they recall. "A colleague, Johan, had spoken so highly of the club and encouraged us to come along. The concept immediately resonated with us, especially with a large family. The villas, the service, the ease of travelling together - it just made sense."

Nearly a decade on, that decision has shaped countless journeys. From Europe to Asia, South Africa, Mauritius and even New York, Sofia and Olof have explored 32 destinations, primarily staying in the club's owned villas, and a handful of reciprocal partner properties too. Along the way, a few favourites have emerged.

"Villa Ombak stands out," they say, "and we also love the properties in the South of France, though that's as much about the location as the villas themselves."

The beautiful Balearic, Mallorca

Their latest trip took them to Villa La Pleta in Mallorca, a destination chosen with purpose.

"The tennis court was the main reason," they explain. "We LOVE tennis, and we were travelling with another tennis-loving family."

From the moment they arrived, the setting delivered. Surrounded by Mallorca's rolling countryside, the villa offered both beauty and energy, perfect for a group with teenagers.

"The first impression was fantastic. The surroundings are stunning, and the outdoor space really stood out. Between tennis, table tennis and beach volleyball, there was always something happening."

Space to come together - and be apart

What makes La Pleta particularly special, they note, is its thoughtful design.

"It's very well planned. When travelling with two families, you still have your own privacy, which makes a big difference."

That balance - togetherness without compromise - defined their stay.

Days of rhythm and ritual

Life at La Pleta quickly fell into a natural rhythm.

"Every day began with a calm breakfast outdoors," they say. "Then a few hours of tennis, and sometimes a run."

Afternoons were for exploring, whether heading into Palma for lunch or discovering the coastline around Cala d'Or, with its beachside walks and relaxed dining.

"We'd pick up some nice ingredients on the way back, play a bit more tennis, then ease into the evening."

And those evenings? They were the highlight. "Barbecues, long conversations, and good wine, those are the moments you really remember."

Discovering Mallorca

While the villa itself offered plenty, one experience stood above the rest.

"We would definitely recommend a day on the sea," they say. "It's such a beautiful way to explore Mallorca."

A private yacht day turned into something unforgettable. "We even saw dolphins, it was incredible."

Back on land, the island delivered in other ways too.

In Palma, they enjoyed cocktails on a sun terrace and dinner at Nobis Hotel Palma, while in Cala Marçal they found a more relaxed favourite in Bar Blau.

"The atmosphere there is so easy-going, and the food was delicious."

The Hideaways difference

Across all their travels, one thing has remained constant. "The concierge service is always absolutely top-class," they say. "It makes everything seamless."

It's that consistency, paired with the freedom to explore, that has kept them returning, year after year.

Looking ahead

And the journey is far from over. "This summer, we're very excited to visit Masseria L'Olivo in Puglia."

Another destination and no doubt, more shared moments waiting to unfold.