Mallorca is just one of Spain's incredible islands that beckons visitors from all around the world for romantic getaways and family vacations. Both its natural beauty and many pristine beaches on the Mediterranean Sea are reason enough to make it the perfect vacation destination, but Mallorca also offers a wonderful selection of activities, attractions and events that are sure to entertain every visitor. While you'll consistently find opportunities for relaxation, fun and excitement right at your fingertips during your Mallorca stay, you should also plan to take some time out for a few of the area's incredible day trips. One of the most popular destinations is the Serra de Tramuntana, and you'll be so glad that you didn't miss the opportunity to enjoy this local treasure.
About the Serra de Tramuntana
Known as the northern backbone of Mallorca, the Serra de Tramuntana is a gorgeous mountain range that runs all the way from Andratx to the Cap Formentor. This stunning region is filled with traditional dry-stone buildings and walls, water mills, wonderful hiking paths and high cliffs that look out over the sea, and these things are naturally blended with agricultural terraces that include an abundance of orange, almond and olive trees, tomato plants and gorgeous vines. As a Mediterranean agricultural landscape, you'll find the Serra de Tramuntana to be extraordinarily unique, and nothing quite like it is found anywhere else on the planet.
A scenic drive through winding and often extremely twisted mountain roads offers stunning views and much to do and see as you travel through some 18 villages and municipalities. These include Calvia, Soller, Deia, Pollenca, Estellencs, Fornalutx, Valldemossa, Lluc, Escora and many more, and each offers something wonderful. There's really not enough time to stop at each village during your day trip, but these are a few of the highlights that you won't want to miss.
In Andratx
You'll find friendly locals who are always pleased to have visitors, and the narrow streets are perfect for a stroll. Once you've discovered the main square, you're likely to see craftsmen hard at work weaving palm leaves into baskets, and those who show up on Wednesday mornings will enjoy the weekly market that offers wonderful handmade items and delicious homemade Mallorcan treats. You may also like to make the short climb up to the old Sant Bartolomeu Church, which offers a lovely view of the thriving almond fields.
In Valldemossa
History buffs will definitely want to stop here for a look at the 15th century monastery that is known as Cartuja. In addition to being a very old standing structure, it's famous for housing Chopin for a full three months in 1838. Those with a weakness for sweets will also enjoy the incredible bakery found here, and you'll find it simply by following your nose to the mouth-watering scents. Even if it doesn't sound good, you'd be making a mistake to not order the potato starch brioche because it's divine.
In Deia
Beautiful Deia has attracted artists for centuries, and you'll see many examples of great art and architecture as you explore the area. Be sure to check out the fortified tower and the neo-classical temple that's made with the marble of Carrara. Take some time to visit the excellent museum, and those who are really lucky will turn up during the yearly Festival of Deia, which fills the town with beautiful music.
Michelin-star dining is available in Deia as well at the popular Es Raco d'es Teix. Chef Josef Sauerschell offers exceptional dishes that include his signature Mallorcan suckling pig, rack of lamb and braised veal shoulder, and excellent local wines are available with a different vineyard showcased each month. During the warm weather, you may dine outside on the terrace that boasts gorgeous mountain views, and you may take your meal inside the restaurant in the elegant dining area during the cooler months.
In Soller
You'll see nothing but orange everywhere that you look because Soller is known as the Valley of Oranges. The entire town smells wonderful thanks to this fragrant fruit, and you'll also want to stop in at the local ice-cream shop for a taste of some 30 homemade ice creams. Of course, orange is the most popular flavor.
Soller also offers another great dining experience at the Restaurant Bens d'Avall, which has been offering a healthy menu that is filled with natural, creative and delicious dishes since 1971. Chef Benet Vicens changes up his dishes with the seasons and always utilizes the freshest local ingredients, and favorite dishes include the suckling pig filled with local fruits and the Tranmuntana lamb, which is slow-cooked to absolute tender perfection. The restaurant sits high on a cliff with incredible views that may be enjoyed while dining on the outdoor terrace.
