The island of Majorca is the largest in Spain – and has proved to be a continuously popular resort for the package holiday market, due to its magnificent resorts and wonderful climate. However, there is more to the island than just the holiday resorts of Magaluf, Santa Ponsa and Palma Nova!
The island is home to some timeless villages that have their own splendid character, history, charm and tourist attractions. Read on for more about the traditional villages of Majorca…
Deià
The village of Deià (pronounced Deya) is one of the most beautiful villages that you can visit in Majorca. It is located in the shadow of the Serra de Tramuntanta mountain range, in the area between Sóller and Valldemossa. The village has an approximate population of 850. The local economy is supported by craft, agriculture and tourism. Deià is located less than one hour from Palma Airport and is 25km by road if you take the rugged Valledemossa way. The village is characterised by houses made of Mallorcan rock around the valley and on the hill. Planning is strictly controlled in the area in order to keep the local charm and to protect the local landscape.
Located in the north of the island, the village dates back to the prehistoric times and derives its name from Arabic word for Hamlet, and was named so during the Islamic control of the island. There is much to see in this enchanting village, including the Parish Museum, the Son Marroig Museum and the Miramar Monastery which was founded at the request of King Jaume II. The village is now recognised as an artist’s paradise, with famous poet Robert Graves and artist Joan Miro residing there over the years. Find out more about Deià.
Banyalbufar
The scenery is stunning around this village, which has a population of around 500. The mountains form the scenery, along with the terracing used by farmers to cultivate their land, and the rugged coastline, which runs from Raco de s’Algar to the Port des Canonge. Like Deià, this village derives its name from Arabic, meaning "Built nearby the Sea". The principal industries in the village are agriculture, fishing, and wine production. One of the best things to see attractions wise is the route that goes from the village centre to the Port des Canonge, taking the old road known as the Volta des Generale. Make sure to catch the Talaia de ses Ànimes, which is a defence tower located on a cliffside on the road to Estellencs. Find out more about Banyalbufar.
Sóller
The charming village of Sóller is located to the northwest of the island. It is well known for the production of olives and oranges. This village is just a half hour drive from Palma Airport. There is plenty to do and see in the village – with spectacular scenery afforded by the Serra de Tramuntana, and plenty of walks and quiet beaches. If you take the tram to Puerto Sóller you can bask in the wonderful breeze and pick the oranges and lemons as the train winds up the hills. At Puerto de Sóller you can idle the time away by watching the fishermen at work on their boats.
Galilea
This is a small rustic community in the Puigpunyent area, and is located at an altitude of 500 metres. The village is made up of traditional Mallorcan houses that developed around the Immaculada Concepció church which was formed in 1810. This church is positioned right at the village square. Here there are wonderful views over the Calvià coast, winding stone streets, and clear mountain air. Around 200 people live at Galilea today, and many people who have chosen this place in the Serra de Tramuntana are artists who have moved to the village for inspiration.
Estellencs
This is a small village facing the sea in a picturesque valley of the Tramuntana Mountain range, and is positioned between Andratx and Banyalbufar. Estellencs has nearly 400 inhabitants, and you will see the typical sights of a Majoran village, with stone streets, agricultural terraces, scenic cove, and the historic old church of Saint John the Baptist.
Fornalutx
Fornalutx is located right in the heartland of the Tramuntana Mountains. The village is renowned for its spectacular scenery and policies of conservation, and the village has been awarded many titles in recognition of this. The village began life as an Arab village, and was conquered by Catalan forces and the present church was completed in 1639. The stone streets and buildings of this village make it an attractive place to visit. There is an outstanding mix of architecture and vegatiation here, like in many Majorcan villages, with the mountain terrace orchards a stunning sight.
Llucalcari
Llucalcari (also known as Es Carrer) is a tiny hamlet located on the coast of the Serra de Tramuntana, just three kilometres from Deià towards the village of Sóller. It is located 85 metres above the sea and is made up of around twenty buildings that make up some of the most picturesque images of Majorca. There used to be five defence towers to protect from pirates, three still are in existence. You can reach the tiny shingle cove from old steps that reach the seashore between olive and pine tree terracing.
Mairead writes for Novacarhire.com - an independent car hire reservation website where you can book low cost car hire at over 5000 locations worldwide.
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