Es Pins was definitely the Squire's house. It is closer to the village of Alqueria Blanca than our other finca, C’an Bassa Coll (which we bought a few years before Es Pins), and situated on the village outskirts facing towards Santanyi and the sea. Many locals have memories of working here. Working in the grand old house and grounds with almonds, apricots, chickens and sheep. It was a large working farm, dominated by the house, which had also served as a home for chickens, pigeons, horses and tractors, when first we saw it in 1988.
We loved the huge carob tree beside Es Pins and the twittering of the birds frightened by the unaccustomed noise of visitors. We found the large number of abandoned barns, pig sties, sheep pens and cow stalls quite amazing. How could we ever make any sense of this project? Inside we found another ruined interior. Larger this time, with old beams, high ceilings and an interior space more like a manor house against the traditional country feel of C'an Bassa Coll. Again, we had no water, no electricity or plumbing. The roof upstairs would need to be re-built and raised very considerably. The whole living space and bedroom areas needed replanning. Everywhere, old wooden doors hung, half eaten by age and worms. There were saddles, bridles, a tractor, animal food, an old round stone covering a sunken grain store.
Our plans developed slowly and the transformation started in late 1988, taking about three years until we had completed the main house, pool and garden layout. Sebastian, our builder for Can Bassa Coll, was on site for most of this time with his team. We can remember having an early drink with local friends on the terrace beside the main bedroom before we started. Raised glasses for success accompanied by raised eyebrows at the extent of what we were embarking upon....
Later, we tackled the surrounding barns and farm buildings. We have promised ourselves we will now enjoy our Fincas and our friends who stay with us. No more projects. Certainly no more projects, we say as we gaze out toward the huge umbrella pine which gave Es Pins its name.... Well, maybe......
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