
Mallorca Classic Week
Mallorca's classic cars come together for this special affair
© James Bennett
© SeeMallorca.com
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© James Bennett
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
Pretty rural town in the mountains of west Mallorca
A village steeped in old-world charm, Valldemossa lies in an idyllic valley in the midst of the Tramuntana mountains. Its ancient blonde stone houses contrast vividly against the surrounding green forests of olive, oak and almond trees, and the blue sky above.
With a local population of around 2,000 residents, Valldemossa's quiet and picturesque streets are brimming with artisan shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Doorways are lined with beautiful plants and flowers, and many houses feature a portrait of Saint Catalina Thomàs, the first saint to be born in Mallorca. In recent years, Valldemossa’s rising popularity has led to an increase in visitors, meaning its once peaceful streets can now feel noticeably busier, especially during peak summer. Most tourists come to Valldemossa on day trips to see the Real Cartuja, the Carthusian Monastery where Chopin and George Sand once spent a winter. Visitors tend to stay for a few hours before continuing on towards Deia, another mountain village on the west coast that overlooks the sea and the setting sun.
Valldemossa’s beautiful countryside naturally draws hikers and nature lovers here. It’s also a favourite destination for those looking to escape the island’s more crowded beach resorts in favour of a tranquil mountainside retreat.
It’s the kind of place you can sit back and soak up the scenery with a warm drink and pastry in the winter and a cold glass of wine and nibbles in the summer.
The celebration of patron saints has traditionally been very important to the Catholic culture in Spain. Valldemossa is no exception to this custom and celebrates two important days. Firstly, the ‘Festes de la Beata' on the 28 July honour Santa Catalina Thomàs, originally from Valldemossa who then became the first saint of Mallorca. This is the most important fiesta for the Valldemossins and hundreds of people flock to the streets to watch and take part in parades where the statue of the saint takes centre stage.
The second important fiesta is that of Sant Bartomeu, the patron saint of Valldemossa, on the 24 August. Festivities such as music events, sports and concerts all take place in the town at this time including performances in the cloisters of the Real Cartuja.
For the culture vultures, the annual Artdemossa Fair, which takes place in July is an absolute must. The event entails an evening of art, performances, exhibitions and concerts.
In August, Valldemossa hosts the Chopin Music Festival and with it brings the opportunity to listen to a variety of international musicians playing the music of the famous composer.
Mallorca's classic cars come together for this special affair
This weekend sees the annual autumn fair in Consell with traditional parties, parades, live music and activities for children.
The Challenge Peguera Mallorca, is well-known for its stunning scenery, and the combination of challenging routes and a fun, festive environment.
Since its launch in 2004, the Festival of Classical Music in Port de Sóller has become one of the outstanding events for the lovers of classical music in Mallorca.
The Palma de Mallorca Marathon is an officially recognised International long distance event.
As part of the “Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival”, Port Adriano will collaborate with four movies screening in a very special way. You only need to come with your car, tune in the indicated radio channel and enjoy the movie as never before!
The name Valldemossa comes from the Moorish name for the town: Musa Valley. The Arabs were rulers of Mallorca for 300 years from the 10th century and introduced irrigated terracing to the island, allowing for the cultivation of the hilly landscape.
A few decades after the Arabs were driven out of Mallorca by Jaume I in 1229, the local philosopher Ramon Llull founded a monastery just outside Valldemossa on the current site of the Miramar Estate in 1276. The monastery became a centre of learning for Franciscan monks and led to the first printing press on Mallorca being introduced here in 1485.
Tourism began in this small mountain village when composer Frederic Chopin arrived in Valldemossa with his lover, George Sand in the 1830s. Renting a former monk's cell to conduct their love affair away from the gossips of Paris, and hoping that the climate would benefit Chopin's health (he had tuberculosis), it didn't work out as planned. The weather was wet and windy, the couple were shunned by the locals and Chopin's piano was late to arrive. Sand took out her anger on Valldemossa in a spiteful book, 'Winter in Mallorca', which the locals, labelled as thieves and savages, still gleefully sell to visitors. It is said however that Chopin worked on some of his finest pieces during this very winter in Mallorca.
Valldemossa is also the birthplace of Santa Catalina Thomas, Mallorca's patron saint. A peasant girl born in 1531, she became a nun in Palma and was renowned for her humility. Catalina died in 1574, was beatified in 1792 and achieved sainthood in 1935. Almost every home in Valldemossa has a plaque imploring her prayers and her birthplace at Carrer Rectoria 5 has been turned into a shrine.
This 13th century monastery is a tourist hot spot thanks to its link to the internationally famous Polish composer Frederic Chopin. Known as the ‘Real Cartuja de Valldemossa’ this old Carthusian monastery was originally founded as a royal residence until it became a monastery in 1399. Writers, artists and composers have famously found inspiration in Valldemossa, and Chopin who lived in Valldemossa during the winter of 1838-39, is probably the most famous. It was in 'cell' number four at the Real Cartuja that Chopin spent the winter with French writer Aurore Dupin, who was better known as her alias George Sand. This room, still in its original state, is now something of a shrine to the lovers and even has Chopin’s music and piano on display.
There is also a fine modern art museum with works by Picasso, Miro and Juli Ramis. The Palau del Rei Sanç (Palace of King Sancho) is located right next to the Cartuja and was originally built in the 14th century.
The Centre Cultural Costa Nord de Valldemossa acts as the headquarters for the Foundation for Sustainable Development of the Balearic Islands. It should be your first stop if you want to learn more about Valldemossa. It includes a 15 minute portrayal of the history of Valldemossa narrated by Hollywood actor Michael Douglas who owns a property a few kilometres from the village.
The Jardins Rei Joan Carles are lovely gardens well worth visiting for a stroll or a moment of relaxation. They can be found near the Chopin Festival Association.
The agricultural estate of Son Moragues, just outside of Valldemossa, has been described as the epicentre of the area's agricultural scene. This 14th century estate can be found in the foothills on the north side of the village and claims more than 100 hectares of olive groves, specialising in the production of organic olive oil. Visits can be arranged if booked in advance and they also sell olives, olive oils and preserves.
Stay on your feet - Years of wear have polished the stones of Valldemossa’s streets, making them slippery, though many are fitted with mats to make walking safer, especially in the rain.
Visit the monastery at Valldemossa, where Chopin and George Sand spent the winter of 1838-9. The Real Cartuja (Royal Carthusian Monastery) was originally a royal residence, until Carthusian monks occupied the building from 1399 until 1835.
Although close to the coast, Valldemossa is not a beachside town. There is a small mooring harbour for a couple of fishing boats at Port de Valldemossa which is about 7km away. There is a pretty little restaurant here and a small pebble beach, 'Cala Sa Marina'.
Cala Deia is a very beautiful small rocky cala with clear waters and rock pools, one of the few beaches on the west coast of Mallorca. It's quite a rugged beach here so you might need to bring a chair or a lilo to lie on.
Offering a distinctly different experience from the more typical Mallorcan beaches, Banyalbufar is carved into the dramatic foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana. This small bay bears a few signs of regular usage, with terraced slopes and protective structures that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Once difficult to access, Cala Banyalbufar is now easily reachable via a windy round, allowing all to discover its quiet beauty.
The Port of Soller offers the only sandy beaches on the west coast of Majorca. This lovely little resort offers two beaches along it's horseshoe bay, all with golden sands and clear blue seas.
The closest beach to Palma is at Ca'n Pere Antoni. This stretch of golden sandy beach starts just beyond the cathedral. A promenade and cycle path runs along its length but behind these lies the main road that takes you to Palma airport.
Portixol is found just to the east of Palma's cathedral and is home to a little bay within which a little sand and shingle beach known as D'es Portitxolet Beach resides. The water is generally calm here due to the sheltered nature of the bay.
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
Traditional cafés and family-run bakeries are scattered throughout Valldemossa, offering local treats like the sweet potato cake, a soft, sponge-textured bun made with boiled potatoes. These are best enjoyed with a coffee or rich hot chocolate.
For more substantial meals, the village has plenty of opportunities to sample classic Mallorcan dishes, from hearty stews and roasted meats to fresh vegetable preparations, often served in charming rustic settings. Nearby countryside spots also provide the perfect end to a walk, with menus showcasing seasonal local ingredients.
Valldemossa also caters to international tastes, with restaurants serving contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, inventive vegetarian options, and globally inspired dishes. Seafood lovers can find freshly caught fish and shellfish along the nearby coast, often served on terraces with panoramic views of the sea, offering a relaxed dining experience in a picturesque setting.
Cappuccino has a number of stylish brasseries in Mallorca, some of which are housed in the most beautiful historic buildings. This branch is located on a central square and has a large terrace.
A unique culinary experience in the centre of Palma with a daily changing menu of the day
Away from the tourist trail in Valldemossa, Es Taller is a bright, contemporary restaurant serving delicious tapas and Mediterranean cuisine using the finest fresh and local ingredients.
Cycling, horse riding and rock climbing are popular activities in the area, and there are several golf courses within a short drive.
Valldemossa might only be a small village but there are gorgeous boutiques, interior design shops, arts and crafts, and handmade jewellery to be discovered along the cobbled streets. Being a tourist hot spot, you won’t have to travel too far to find souvenir and gift shops either. Don’t miss Valldemossa’s weekly market which takes place on Sunday mornings throughout the year when the whole village comes to life.
This company offers guided hikes and trail runs for all levels. Discover mountain paths, coastal trails, and hidden spots with expert local guides.
Whether you want to learn the basics, learn to lead outside or just get out and about on some great climbs, Rock and Ride will find the right venue for you: sunny cliffs in winter and shady limestone in summer.
This year Rock & Ride will be offering open group climbing sessions at one of Mallorca’s extensive and impressive limestone rock climbing venues.
Valldemossa is a popular spot for cycling, offering a mix of challenging climbs, scenic routes and quieter country lanes. The village itself sits in the Tramuntana hills, so expect steep ascents and winding roads that reward riders with panoramic views of terraced hillsides, olive groves and the surrounding coastline.
The southern end of the Sierra Tramuntana does not have the epic climbs of the north, however this rolling ride provides no less than six different summits as well as some of Mallorca's most scenic roads.
Cycling from Port de Soller along the coast and through Deia, you will then travel on to Valldemossa before heading back inland and finishing over the Coll de Soller.
Starting and finishing in Port de Soller this ride has a half way point in Cala Deia where you ahve the chance to stop for some lunch, a snack or even a dip in the sea to cool off.
With undulating roads and an altitude gain of almost 2000m this relatively short ride, at just 75km, will get your lungs and your legs pumping.
Palma is a really bike friendly city. The giveaway is the prominent red cycle route running all along the Paseo Maritimo and through the city centre. The weather is perfect for it too. Despite the obvious benefits of urban exploration on two wheels, Palma on Bike was my first experience of cycling in the capital.
Enjoy a flat route by the sea that is completely on purpose made cycle paths so that it is safe for all the family to cycle. It takes you from the capital city of Palma to the beach resort area of Playa de Palma.
Valldemossa’s beautiful countryside naturally draws hikers and nature lovers to enjoy the myriad of trails that wind up through the wooded hillsides. Upon reaching the summits hikers are rewarded with panoramic views over Mallorca and the Mediterranean.
There are many well-signed trails in the hills surrounding the village. Take a look at our guide for ideas or visit the tourist office near the main car park for maps and advice on routes. It is also a good idea to arrange a guided hike with a local adventure company to benefit from their expert knowledge of the area.
Valldemossa is located towards the west coast of Mallorca. The bus line to Valldemossa, Deia and Llucalcari allows access to some fantastic places of interest, the woods and mountains, and some tranquil coves to swim in.
Valldemossa is located near the west coast of Mallorca. This walk was mapped out by Archduke Ludwig Salvatr during tours of his estates by mule.
When a post for the Mallorca Hiking Club popped up on Facebook on a miserable February day, it immediately grabbed my attention. My New Year's Resolution to get fit was but a distant memory, and this sounded too good an offer to pass up. I have always fancied mooching around the pretty part of Mallorca that I knew existed, but with a hopeless sense of direction, I was nervous to go off on my own in case I got lost and ended half way up a mountain in the middle of nowhere.
On a sunny February Saturday morning, we drove towards Banyalbufar to try the leisurely but beautiful Port des Canonge hike, along a coastal path at the very edge of the majestic Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. The path is called Cami de Sa Volta des General, named after General F. Cotoner who, in the 19th century, was the owner of the Baronia estate, now a hotel in Banyalbufar.
This route includes an attractive ascent on cobbled paths via the Mont-Reials path and a descent via the Rocafort joined by a stretch of the Castello path. This walk captures some of the best views of the Soller valley.
This trip actually begins in Palma, where one takes the electric train that joins Palma to the 'valley of the oranges' - Soller.
Mallorca has a great variety of canyons suitable from beginner level to advanced, with each of them offering a unique experience.
Swim in the crystal clear waters on the north-west coast and discover its stunning underwater world on this snorkelling trip
Daily trips for certified divers in a great diversity of dive sites
Enjoy an exhilarating day trekking and scrambling through gorges, waterfalls and jumping into giant rock pools.
Lessons delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
An exhilarating rock and water activity suitable for families and adrenaline-junkies, a great way to explore the coastline of Mallorca.
Cosy family house of 270 m² in the centre of Valldemossa. High quality finishings and modern equipment, swimming pool (5 x 5 m) and large terrace. An ideal accommodation for a perfect holiday in the Serra de Tramuntana.
Staying in short-term rental accommodation in Valledemossa is a wonderful way to experience the village’s laid-back charm and natural beauty in your own time and space. Often set in traditional buildings with mountain or sea views, apartments are ideal if you want a simple, comfortable base whilst exploring the area. With the freedom to cook, relax and come and go as you please, it’s a great option for anyone who enjoys a slower pace surrounded by natural beauty.
The rustic fincas made from traditional blonde stone are a popular choice for a rural retreat and can be found in the valleys around Valldemossa. Some are more traditionally furnished, whilst others are kitted out with all the latest mods and cons, but most have their own swimming pool and gardens. This style of accommodation is perfect for a group getaway keen for a quiet and private Mallorcan holiday.
Cosy family house of 270 m² in the centre of Valldemossa. High quality finishings and modern equipment, swimming pool (5 x 5 m) and large terrace. An ideal accommodation for a perfect holiday in the Serra de Tramuntana.
Valldemossa offers a wonderful range of rustic-style boutique hotels and charming country fincas. Within the village, visitors can stay in historic buildings featuring exposed beams, stone arches, four-poster beds, pretty gardens, outdoor pools and small wellness areas, offering a blend of comfort and character. Smaller, more intimate hotels provide a home-away-from-home atmosphere, with traditionally styled rooms and stunning views over the village and surrounding hills.
Beyond the village, boutique fincas and rural retreats are dotted across the hills. These offer seclusion, lush gardens, swimming pools and individually furnished rooms, perfect for a restful escape. Some larger properties can be rented as a whole, with multiple bedrooms and additional features such as wine cellars, ideal for groups seeking privacy, tranquillity and a taste of traditional Mallorcan life.
A new concept in accommodation that promises to surprise and delight you, and where you are guaranteed to feel at home.
The hotel, formerly a stately manor house called Son Escanyelles, is situated in a beautiful natural setting on the outskirts of Valldemossa. Located just a few minutes from the town centre, it has an open-air swimming pool and extensive gardens, while boasting stunning views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.
This peaceful retreat promises a warm welcome and a chance to experience Mallorca’s quieter, more authentic side.
This hotel is located in the middle of the mountains, close to both the town of Deia and Palma.
This small hotel, situated in the village of Valldemossa, is 15 minutes away from the city of Palma de Mallorca. The old house has been totally renovated and its privileged situation offers breathtaking views of a village between valleys surrounded by lush mountains.
Situated in the heart of the valley, on top of a hill from where you can enjoy views over the bay of Palma from one part, and the Tramuntana mountain range and the monastery from the other.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Valldemossa is a 30 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
There are no direct buses to and from the airport.
Experience luxury and convenience with this company. Arrive at your yacht charter, sunset tour or boat trip in unparalleled style in a Rolls Royce Ghost.
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
A group of taxi drivers with many years of experience in the sector of airport transfers in Mallorca. You can book online in advance or call to book last-minute.
Multilingual company offering transfers from the airport to your destination.
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See allLatest News & ReviewsThe island hosts all sorts of events, including agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, live music and DJs in the summer, religious fiestas and international sporting events. Some of the most popular are the Mallorca 312 cycling race in April, the Copa del Rey sailing regatta in July and the Moors vs Christians mock battle in September.
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