Unmissable Mallorca
Our guide to the local secret gems...
Towns & Villages
FORNALUTX
Twice voted one of Spain’s best preserved villages, Fornalutx has lovely mountain walks and stunning views. The village itself has banks, a post office, shops, a hairdresser, a butcher, an iron monger, a carpenter and a fisherman. Of course, the lovely little plaza is home to the church, bars, and restaurants.
VALDEMOSSA
One of Mallorca’s prettiest villages (yes, another one!), Valldemossa sits in the hills of the Tramuntana range, and has narrow streets made of beautiful blonde stone.
DEIA
On the northern coast of Mallorca, the ridiculously picturesque village of Deia sits on an almost perfect cone ringed by terraces of olive trees.
POLLENÇA
Situated at the eastern end of the Serra de Tramuntana, tucked between two hills, Pollença (pronounced Poyenca) is a charming and enchanting town with ancient stone architecture and cobbled pedestrianised streets, like the Mallorca you always hoped to discover.
PALMA
The island’s capital is full of surprises. Its labyrinthine streets are fantastic for strolling, full of buzzy bars, relaxed cafés, chic boutiques and historic architecture.
SOLLER
Some would say that the laidback port town of Soller is Mallorca’s best kept secret. It’s a wonderful place to relax, people watch or amble the narrow streets. Look out for shops selling locally made wares featuring figs, olive oil and oranges.
A note on parking: The beautiful towns of Mallorca are often limited on parking so it’s best to plan any outings for early morning before settling into one of the many wonderful rerstaurants for lunch. The card payment options at parking meters are often tempramental so we highly recommend bringing a supply of coins.
Dining
El Olivo
Set in a 16th century olive press, La Residencia’s gourmet restaurant is wonderfully romantic.
Booking is essential.
Deia | +34 971 63 9011 | 0845 077 2222 | belmond.com
Restaurante Sebastián, Carrer de Felip Bauzà
A must visit restaurant for dinner: European fine dining with a nod to Asian cuisine. Set in a former stable, it has exceptional mountain views and an elegant yet relaxed candle lit atmosphere.
Opening hours vary seasonally.
Deia | +34 971 63 94 17 | closed Wednesday
Béns D’Avall, Carretera de Deia
Cliff top Balearic fine dining restaurant – one of the island’s best – with a stunning sea view terrace. The top class wine list is Mallorcan, Spanish, French and Italian with pedigree names at every turn. Located about 4km north of Deia off the road to Soller.
Deia | +34 971 632 381 | bensdavall.com
Es Raco des Teix, Calle de Sa Vinya Viejais
A Michelin starred restaurant with amazing village and mountain views.
Deia | +34 971 639 501 | esracodesteix.es
Sa Vinya, Carrer Viña Vieja
Set in the sloping hillside just above the streets of Deia serving rustic local Spanish cuisine amongst a picturesque tree-shaded terrace dotted with pretty geraniums. The paella and pasta is especially delicious here and children will love the humongous ball glasses of homemade lemonade. The restaurant is open from 12pm-8pm and serves food throughout so it’s a great place to take children needing an earlier supper.
Deia | +34 971 639 500 | restaurant-savinya.com| closed Tuesday
S’Hortet
Healthy breakfast and lunch options in a jolly café setting.
Deia | facebook.com/hortetdeia?ref=6&_rdr
De Monio
Cool vegan café serving delicious food, with a great shop.
Deia | @de_monio2020
Ca’s Patro March
Iconic restaurant on the beach, featured in the BBC series ‘The Night Manager’ serving f abulous seafood with an amazing view. Luckily the restaurant is uncorrupted by its recent fame and the staff are welcoming and friendly- although the best experiences here will always be had outside of July and August. We strongly recommend booking well in advance. Parking can be tricky, the small car park at the beach fills up early during high season so it may be easier to park in Deia and walk the 30 minutes to the restaurant, or take a taxi. If you want to avoid the busiest part of the day, come early for breakfast instead- their freshly squeezed orange juice, Mallorquin almond cake or ‘Gato Almendras’ and cheesecake are not to be missed.
Cala Deia | +34 971 63 91 37
Can Lluc
Another fabulous seafood restaurant on Cala Deia. Not so famous but just as good.
Cala Deia | +34 649 19 86 18
S’Estret
A gem of a restaurant with only three tables outside and three inside. Serving modern tapas dishes of high quality.
Valldemossa | facebook.com
QuitaPenas
Atmospheric, tapas bar in one of the old buildings of Valdemossa. Their particular speciality are pambolis- toasted ciabatta type bread with the most delicious toppings using local, seasonal ingredients.
Valldemossa | quitapenasvalldemossa.com
Pastisseria Ca’n Molinas
Not to be missed on a trip to Valldemossa- traditional Menorcan bakery selling the famous sweet potato buns ‘coca de patatas’ and the sweet pastries ‘ensaimado’.
Valldemossa | maps.app.goo.gl/1nLNBDTLpyTdZzcf7
Gelati Mossa
The best gelato in town, and a good place to take a stroll in the monastery gardens.
Valldemossa
Aromas
Charming restaurant with a shaded courtyard area offering welcome respite from a hot days’ sightseeing. Make sure to request a table in the courtyard if the weather is good.
Valldemossa | mallorca-touristguide.net
Sa Cova
Small restaurant with fabulously creative tapas platters. Beautifully presented and delicious but only four tables.
Valldemossa | facebook.com/sacovavalldemossa
S’ort de Cartoixa
A cave of grocery treasures, perfect to stock up on lovely local produce. There are also a couple of tables where you can eat in.
Valldemossa | facebook.com/valldemossadeli/
Barba Florida
Homemade cakes and great lunch options. Eat inside or out on the terrace under the trees. Great coffee.
Valldemossa
Es Taller
A well known, local chef serving tapas with a modern twist, in an original venue (a former mechanic’s garage). Simple, delicious and friendly... and popular, so book ahead!
Valldemossa | +34 971 616 396 | estallervalldemossa.com
Roseta
Café and shop- perfect for coffee and a browse.
Valldemossa | @roseta_valldemossa
Ca’n Uetam
A brand new restaurant set in the old orchards and terraced groves of Valldemossa with incredible views of the Tramuntana mountains. Reasonably priced food with a varied menu, serving tapas, salads, burgers, steak and a good children’s menu. There is a great atmosphere here and a lovely outdoor area where children can play.
canuetam.com/en-gb
Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel, Carrer de Bèlgica
Three restaurants to choose from: Mediterranean dining, relaxed tapas or sushi. Plus, there are two bars. Most come with stunning views.
Soller | +34 971 637 888 | jumeirah.com
Can Llimona
Fresh pasta and organic food.
Soller | canllimona.com/en
La Romaguera
Beautiful, romantic restaurant in Soller. Lovely for a special occasion.
Soller | laromaguera.eatbu.com
Barrettes
Sophisticated restaurant with a magical garden and stunning views.
Soller | barretesrestaurant.com
Es Canyis, Passeig Platja d’en Repic
This restaurant has superb views of the bay of Sóller from the terrace and indoor restaurant. It’s been run by the same family since it opened in 1954. Think Mallorcan food with a twist.
Soller | +34 971 631 406 | escanyis.es
Sa Barca
Sunset dining here is a pleasure. This seaside favourite serves fresh Mediterranean cuisine with a touch of Asian flavour.
Soller | +34 971 639 943
Es Vergeret
Just above the bay of Cala Tuent. Serving traditional Mallorcan rice and seafood dishes.
Soller | esvergeret.com/en
Finca Son Mico
French style café with lovely garden seating and amazing views.
Soller
ReOrganic
Gluten and dairy free restaurant serving delicious options which can be hard to find on a restricted diet.
Soller | reorganic.es/soller-restaurant
Sa Figuera
Hotel restaurant surrounding the pool offering a selection of international dishes with a Majorcan accent.
Port de Soller | safiguerarestaurant.com/en/
Blai Bar
Natural wine and cocktail bar serving bistro style food.
Port de Soller
IO Gelats
The best ice cream in Port de Soller.
Port de Soller | iogelats.es/flavors.html
Goia
Japanese meets Mediterranean food. Beautiful restaurant with amazing views of the port.
Port de Soller | goia.com.es/
Beach House
Smoothie and milkshake bar on the waterfront promenade serving pancakes and ice cream too.
Port de Soller
Bar Ocea
Wraps, smoothies and toasties. Right on the waterfront and great for a quick snack with kids.
Port de Soller
Ca n’Antuna, Carrer Arbona-Colom
Traditional Mallorcan dishes served under vine draped pergolas, overlooking the village.
Fornalutx | +34 971 633 068
Bar Depor
A lively bar serving tapas and breakfast open from morning till midnight.
Fornalutx | +34 971 63 19 53
La Placeta
Serving a mixed menu with freshly caught fish. A family vibe and great courtyard setting, away from the main squares, to watch the world go by.
Pollensa | +34 680 198 564
R3SPIRA
Located just outside the touristy centre of Pollensa, this is worth the little extra effort to get to. A delicious mix of Italian and Mallorcan dishes - we recommend the tapas and the service here is excellent.
Pollensa | +34 971 50 80 59
Il Giardino
Situated in the main square of Pollensa and great for families, it has a busy happy vibe. Perfect who those who like pasta or fish – isn’t that pretty much everyone?
Pollensa | +34 971 53 43 02
365 Restaurant at Son Bruller Hotel
Open to non-residents, this is a very civilised place for lunch or supper. The Mallorcan chef creates innovative dishes with ingredients from the hotel’s very own organic plot.
Pollensa | +34 971 53 53 53
La Llonja
Located in the old fish market of Port de Pollença, the restaurant has a beautiful view over the bay. These guys really know how to do fish and have a great 3 course ‘menu of the day’ option for lunch. There is also a less formal ‘cantine’ on site.
Port De Pollensa | +34 971 868 430
One Touch
Sweet tapas and wine bar, perfect for refuelling after a bit of sightseeing.
Port de Pollensa | @onetouchpollensa
Amazo
Stylish restaurant with an Asian influence.
Port De Pollensa | +34 971 48 52 23
Oliu
Beautiful during the day, but particularly at night when the building is lit up. The tasting menu is €60 per person for 8 courses. Fine dining with great service.
Port de Andratx | oliu.es
Avocado Club
Small but flamboyant restaurant, great for sushi.
Port d’Andratx | avocadoclub.es
Es Baluard Restaurant, Plaça de la Porta de Santa Catalina
Right by the modern art museum, this restaurant has a great menu of modern Mallorcan dishes, such as prawn salad with mango dressing. It’s also a fabulous spot for sundowners.
Palma | +34 871 234 954 | restaurantesbaluard.com | closed Monday
Marc Fosh, Carrer de la Missió
Michelin starred Mediterranean cuisine by renowned British chef, Marc Fosh (a long-time Mallorca resident). Dishes might include beetroot gazpacho with horseradish “ravioli”, pistachios and mandarin.
Palma | +34 971 720 114 | marcfosh.com
Bar España, Carrer de Can Escursac
Tapas heaven! Great value tapas and wine – the chef is influenced by Mexico, India and Thailand, so expect dishes to have a spicy kick. Grab a stool by the bar to get a better look at the tapas on offer, and check the blackboard too. If you are going for dinner, arrive before 9pm as it fills up fast.
Palma | +34 971 724 234 | closed Sunday
Drinks
Sa Fonda, Carrer Arxiduc Lluís Salvador
A fabulous local bar renowned for its live music and glitzy clientele – Branson has a house in town and friends have been known to jam here…
Deia | +34 971 63 63 93
Opio Bar, Carrer de Montenegro
Puro Hotel’s lounge bar is as cool as it gets in Palma. Pop in for a pre or post dinner cocktail.
Deia | +34 971 425 450 | purohotel.com
Best Beaches
Cala Deia, north east coast
From Deia follow the winding road down through the olive groves until you hit its small, rocky and very pretty cove – made famous by 2016 TV series, The Night Manager. A swim out into the surrounding cove is a must if you're up to it: you'll find yourself floating amid gigantic rocks and coral in fresh saltwater. Two unassuming restaurants blend into the surrounding rocks, serving nigh on perfect fish and salad, washed down with delicious Mallorcan wine or cold San Miguel beers. It's quite a happening scene at any time of day. Word of warning though for high season, the small car park fills up quickly so be sure to arrive early. Another option is to park in Deia and walk down, or take a taxi. The rocky cliffs surrounding the cove can be loose so best to sunbathe away from the egde.
Son Real, north coast
In the large Bay of Alcúdia, this beach popular with naturists is part of a nature reserve reachable only on foot. The shortest route is from the harbour at Son Serra de Marina, where you can park your car. Dogs are allowed on the beach.
Alcúdia, north east coast
The largest beach of all the Balearic islands with 7km of sand. A ‘blue-flag’ beach with a wide range of facilities, beach bars, restaurants and watersports facilities and no big waves, so perfect for children. The beach can be divided into two sections; the first half, from Port d'Alcúdia to Ciudad Blanca, where most of the facilities and services are, but it’s busy with many hotels. Further up the bay, as you head towards Playa de Muro, it is easier to find quieter spots.
Playa de Formentor, north west coast
This sheltered sandy beach has turquoise waters, good facilities and no big waves – perfect for children. Ensure you go early as this is a very popular beach – you will feel entirely on your own until about midday when the hoards arrive. Best advice? Go first thing in the morning and head home for lunch!
Cala Mesquida, north coast
Good sandy beach, can get busy during the summer months.
Playa del Puerto de Soller
Surrounded by beautiful mountain views, the sandy strech along the port in Soller has umbrellas and sunbeds. Perfect for children. A little further around is the rocky beach of Playa d’en Repic. Ideal for snorkelling as the water is crystal clear. There are two areas for paid parking depending on which side of the beach you want to go to. The first is a large paid parking lot that connects to the small parc Sa Torre, or take the signs towards La Muleta and Repic along a small 1-kilometre long road that will lead you to the other side of Repic, where there is another paid parking area. There are a few water sports along Playa d'en Repic such as paddleboats, and just a short walk away along the beach, in front of the Esplendido Hotel is a SUP shop, which also offers yoga on the beach classes. The restaurants can be quite touristy along the waterfront so a good idea would be to pop into Soller to stock up on sandwiches and take a picnic.
Cala Tuent, north west
Beautiful horseshoe shaped cove and pebble beach surrounded by pine trees. Accessible by car. There is a dive center and kayak and paddles board hire on the beach. On the cliffs above is a pretty restaurant ‘Es Vergeret’.
Alconasser (Llucalcari), north west
A rocky outcrop which only reachable on foot. Although if you’re eating at the restaurant above ‘Ben d’Avalls’ then you can park there. Locals gather here to sunabthe and swim from the rocks. Not suitable for very young children or people with limited mobility.
Es Trenc, south coast
The most unspoilt beach on the island, particularly at La Rapita.
Son Real Natral Park, South of Alucida, north east
Protected natural parkland with unspoiled beaches. There is also the chance to visit the prehistoric burial ground right on the waters’ edge. There are no amenities so make sure you take everything you need, however there are toilets at the nearby museum.
Do & See
Viewpoints
Valldemossa has some of the most beautiful viewpoints on the island- ideal for the perfect ‘Kodak’ moment. Our favourites are linked here:
Miranda des Lledoners
Mirador Valldemossa
Mirador de Valldemossa II
Mirador de sa Foradada - Just outside Valldemossa
Robert Graves’ House, Carretera Deià a Sóller
One of Deia's most famous residents was the English poet and novelist, Robert Graves, whose most famous work includes I Claudius. His former early 20th century home is now a museum, preserved to reflect how he lived there. The beautiful garden has almond, olive and carob trees. Graves is buried in a tiny churchyard at one of Deia's highest points, overlooking the valleys and the sea.
Deia | +34 971 636 185 | lacasaderobertgraves.org/en
La Residencia Spa, Son Canals
Fabulous bespoke treatments in a gorgeous setting, complete with indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and terraces.
Deia | +34 971 636 055
La Seu Cathedral
Palma Cathedral’s gothic grandeur is a must see, especially when sunlight filters in through the enormous rose window. The great Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudí, redesigned parts of the interior in the early 20th century. In recent years, an astounding ceramic chapel was created by Miquel Barceloó (one of Spain's leading contemporary artists). The organ plays at 11am.
Palma |catedraldemallorca.org/en
Cartoixa de Valldemossa
A Carthusian monastery with pretty gardens to wander around. Once home to Chopin and George Sands. A fascinating outing.
Valldemossa | cartoixadevalldemossa.com/en/home/
Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum
Housed in a revamped 16th century fortress and forming part of the old town walls, the museum exhibits works by artists such as Picasso and Miró.
Palma | +34 971 908 200 | esbaluard.org/en
Palma by bike
Hire a bike for the day and cycle along the promenade around the bay. Head east in Palma down to the chi chi Portixol marina for a coffee or ride west past the fish market to the main harbour to ogle at the yachts. There are a number of good rental companies in Palma, this is just one.
Palma | +34 971 718 062 | palmaonbike.com
C’an Prunera, Carrer de sa Lluna
This impressive modernist art museum’s biggest attraction is the building itself. Designed in 1911 by renowned Spanish architect Joan Rubi i Bellver, it has been fully restored and is a true cultural landmark.
Soller | +34 971 638 973 | canprunera.com | closed Monday
365 Calvari Steps
These old steps (allegedly 365) lead from the Placa Major to the top of the town. The walk up is not too hard and goes through a pretty part of the town. You are rewarded with views and a very sweet church to visit at the top.
Pollensa
Museo Dionis Bennassar
An unexpected treasure just off the main square. It’s the beautiful home of a famous local artist used to showcase his works.
Pollensa | +34 971 530 997 | museudionisbennassar.com
Pro Cycle Hire, Pollença, north coast
Serious bikers can hire quality carbon frame bicycles on the island, avoiding the stress or worry of transporting your own bike. Book before you go and get ready to enjoy some of the best bike routes in Europe. This is one of many cycle hire companies on the island.
procyclehire.com
Tramuntana Tours, Soller, north east coast
Get closer to the real Mallorca, with an experienced guide. Activities include walking excursions, mountain bike tours, canyoning, boat charter, deep sea fishing and sea kayaking. Book before you go.
tramuntanatours.com
Binissalem Wineries, central Mallorca
Many of Mallorca’s wines are made in and around Binissalem village, which has been awarded designation of origin status (the Spanish equivalent of appellation d'origine contrôlée). The main grapes used are the local varieties Manto Negro and Callet for red wines and Moll for whites. While the best known vineyard is José L. Ferrer, it is also worth visiting Macià Batle, Vins Nadal and Son Prim, to name just a few.
+34 971 512 191 | binissalemdo.com
Son Marroig, near Deia, north east coast
A beautiful estate that once belonged to the Archduke of Austria, Luis Salvador of Habsburg. It includes beautiful gardens with pavilions and gates, greenhouses, grottoes, pagodas and balconies overlooking the cliffs and the sea.
+34 971 639 158 | sonmarroig.com | closed Sunday
Cap de Formentor, north coast
The wild Cap de Formentor peninsula, Mallorca's most northerly point, has scenery as dramatic as anyone could wish for. Cliffs 400 metres tall jut into the sea, their weird rock formations attracting nesting seabirds, whilst pine trees seem to grow out of the rocks. The drive is also famously scary, but many love this rugged region.
Tramuntana Train Journey
The vintage wooden train from Palma to Soller follows a pretty route through the Tramuntana mountains. A string of tunnels cut through the rocks, passing pine forests, olive groves and citrus orchards. Afterwards, take the tram down to Port de Soller for lunch by the harbour or beach.
+34 971 752 051 | trendesoller.com/en
From the Port Sóller marina, about a 10-minute walk away, you can book ferry boat trips to Sa Calobra and Cala Tuent up the coast, and you can rent your own small boat for the day as well.
Son Termens Golf Course, west Mallorca
A charming course set in a beautiful valley.
+34 971 617 862 | golfsontermes.com
Golf Son Vida, near Palma
Mallorca’s oldest course – prestigious and traditional.
+34 971 783 000 | arabellagolfmallorca.com/en target="_blank">arabellagolfmallorca.com/en
Golf Son Quint, near Palma
Mallorca’s youngest course, inaugurated in 2007.
+34 971 606 175 | arabellagolfmallorca.com/en
SUP Soller
Paddleboard and kayak hire. Great for a potter around the harbour.
Port de Soller
Botanic Gardens
An interesting collection of plant species from the Balearic islands, Canary and Madeira Islands, and Mediterranean islands. There is a medicinal plants collection, cactus collection and indigenous fruits and vegetables collection.
Soller | mucbo.org/
Jardines de Alfabia
A stunning house, gardens and orchard right in the heart of the Tramuntana mountain range. The estate appears in literature which dating from the arab era of Mallorca.
Bunyola | jardinesdealfabia.com/en/
Jardin Rei Joan Carles
A small but enchanting garden in the heart of Valldemossa. A great place for children to have a run around.
Valldemossa
Shopping
Reynes Bakery and Supermarket
A great little grocery shop, lots of good quality ingredients including dietary options. Also an island famous bakery. Email marc_reynes@hotmail.com for deliveries.
Deia
Comestible Bernat
Handy grocery store. They will make up filled baguettes to take away.
Deia
CoAliment
Very handy mini supermarket- has a good amount of dairy and gluten free options.
Valldemossa
Eroski
Supermarket.
Soller
BipBip
Supermarket
Soller
Mercat Tramunata
A gorgeous little cafe come deli, wonderful produce. Eat in or takeaway.
mercattramuntana.com
Puigpunyent
Weekly Markets
Sunday - Valldemossa and Pollensa
Wednesday - Deia
Saturday - Soller
Please call first to check restaurants and museums are open, and check the relevant government guidance before travelling.
No responsibilty can be accepted by Scott Williams for any issues that may arise as a result of the enclosed recommendations and information.