An evening celebrating the true essence of Mallorca

There are some evenings that stay with you — where every sense is gently awakened and time seems to soften. My recent visit to Lucinda Sanderson’s organic citrus farm, in Lloret de Vistalegre, was one of those evenings — a soulful gathering under the stars, surrounded by nature, creativity, and community.

Lucinda, an organic citrus farmer dedicated to permaculture and creative living, has cultivated more than just a thriving orchard in the rolling countryside near Sineu. She has created a living, breathing expression of connection — to the land, to the seasons, and to the people she welcomes to her table. Officially certified organic, Lucinda produces her own exquisite organic lemonade, as well as supplying Montimare Spritz, a refreshing citrus aperitivo inspired by the Mediterranean.

Throughout the year, Lucinda curates exquisite farm-to-table experiences that celebrate the land’s natural abundance - “pick-your-own” vegan and vegetarian cooking classes, immersive sensory games with herbs and plants, and gatherings that invite guests to slow down, reconnect with nature’s cycles, and share meaningful moments with a community of like-minded people.

This evening’s pop-up event was billed as “The Essence of Tuscany – Dinner Under the Stars,” and it truly lived up to its promise. Partnering this evening with Chef Andrea Bettin, a Venetian chef whose roots run deep in Italian culinary tradition, Lucinda hosted an experience that wove together the authenticity of both Italy and Mallorca.

From Rugby Fields to Fine Cuisine

Chef Andrea’s story is as rich as his dishes. Born on the outskirts of Venice, his early love of food was nurtured in his grandfather’s vegetable garden and through his mother’s homemade bread. Before turning his passion into a career, Andrea played for the Italian national rugby team, even winning the national championship. After hanging up his boots, he dedicated himself fully to the kitchen, training across Italy and eventually working alongside Michelin-starred chef Floriano Pellegrino at Bros.

Now based in Mallorca, Andrea brings with him that unmistakable Italian spirit - robust, soulful, and generous - perfectly complementing the setting of Lucinda’s farm.

Walking the Land

As guests arrived, we were greeted with a refreshing herbal tea infusion, served as the late afternoon light softened over the citrus groves. Lucinda led us on a gentle walk through her orchards, their trees heavy with fruit, the air rich with the scent of oranges, lemons and herbs.

We continued up through her vegetable and herb gardens, learning about her dedication to organic farming and permaculture principles - how every plant, insect, and patch of soil has its role in the delicate balance of her ecosystem.

At the top of the path, we reached a pergola overlooking the valley, where we were welcomed with Montimare Spritz, made from Lucinda’s own lemons and oranges, alongside bowls of Lucinda’s citrus hummus and Andrea’s warm olive and tomato focaccia. From this spot, the view stretched across the orchards and towards the distant mountains, bathed in a golden evening light, whilst some old friends.gathered and new friends were made amongst the guests.

Dining Beneath the Stars

As dusk fell, long tables were beautifully set beside the pool, adorned with a beautiful arrangement of flowers and vegetables from the garden, flickering candles, and a soft soundtrack of Italian melodies.

Dinner unfolded as a sumptuous Italian-style buffet, crafted from Lucinda’s organic produce and ingredients sourced from the organic market in Inca. Each dish felt like a celebration of the Mediterranean — vibrant, fresh, and full of love.

The evening closed with a perfect finale: a Tiramisu infused with lemon mascarpone, followed by a smooth Limoncello digestive — a sweet, citrusy nod to Lucinda’s beloved lemons.

A Taste of Connection

As the stars shimmered above and conversation flowed among the 26 guests, it felt like more than just a dinner - it was a celebration of community, creativity, and conscious living.

Lucinda’s vision and Andrea’s artistry came together seamlessly, reminding us how food, land, and connection intertwine. It was a night that captured the true spirit of slow living in Mallorca - where the simple act of sharing a meal becomes a moment of beauty and belonging.

Lucinda, an accomplished vegan and vegetarian chef, runs “Farm-to-Table” experiences throughout the year, as well as partnering with other pop-up chefs. Lucinda is also a twice gold medal winner for floral design at London’s prestigious Chelsea Flower Show.

With gratitude to:
🍋 @lucinda.mallorca Organic Citrus Farmer & Host
👨‍🍳 Andrea Bettin @ab_privatechef — Private Chef, Mallorca
🥂 Montimare Spritz — The taste of Mediterranean summer

By: Amanda J Butler
Founder of AJButlerProperty.com & WellnessTraveller.co
Exploring the intersection of home, wellness, and conscious living in Mallorca.  Follow Amanda on IG @amandabmallorca