© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
© J. Rains
Traditional rural town in the south-west of Mallorca
The town of Andratx is located in a valley on the southwestern tip of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Surrounded by orange groves and almond trees, which leave a 'snowfall' of blossom each February, Andratx is a pretty, sleepy rural town that embodies the authentic Mallorca.
Like many towns around the coast, Andratx was built several kilometres inland from its port, Port d'Andratx, in a bid to deter pirate raids. Today, Andratx remains a pretty and authentic Mallorcan town almost untouched by tourism, which means there are only a few options for visitors to base themselves here. The port and the surrounding hillsides, on the other hand, are scattered with holiday homes and villas targeting affluent tourists.
The town only really gets animated on Wednesdays when the quaint streets are taken over by market stalls selling vegetables, cheeses and fish. This is the best time to visit. When you have finished your shopping, climb to the top of the town to see the 13th century church of Santa Maria.
It's likely that the name 'Andratx' has Latin roots, where 'antra' translates into caves. The nearby caves at Son Bosc and Son Fortuny are a couple of examples that were used by humans in prehistoric times. Traces of the Talayotic culture (1300 to 1000 BC) are evident at Son Fortuny (Biniorella Talayot) and Es Castell in S'Arraco. The Romans arrived here in 123 BC but there are no significant remains of their presence on this part of the island.
The Muslim ruled from the 10th century brought irrigation techniques to the area, creating large agricultural fields here. After the Catalan conquest in 1229, the area was ruled by feudal lords. Pirate raids in the 15th century saw some attempts to build a defensive wall around Andratx but this was never finished, probably because it's situated several kilometres away from the coast and up a hill - not exactly a pirate's dream we imagine!
The 16th and 17th centuries were blighted by poor harvests, leading to hunger and poverty and an exodus to the city. It was not until the 18th century that a recovery took hold. The implementation of a centralised state administration promoted agriculture and fishing to provide for the growing population.
The town of Andratx expanded further in the 19th century when industries such as soap manufacture and timber processing plants were established here. This was not to last, however, and, by the end of the century, large numbers of the population migrated to the Americas and France. The next major boom was not until the 1960s when tourism began to establish itself.
Major construction created residential areas around the coast of Andratx, in Port d'Andratx, Camp de Mar and Sant Elm. Nowadays, and tourism remains the main economic force in the area.
The church of Santa Maria was founded in the 13th century but the current building dates back to the 18th century.
There are also a handful of modernist palaces in Andratx, including the town hall.
However, Andratx's main cultural treasure is the impressive arts centre, one of the largest establishments in the Balearics dedicated to the creation and exhibition of contemporary art. To the general public, it offers a unique cultural experience, whereas the studio program is open to national and international artists.
The CCA Andratx Art Centre is dedicated to the creation and exhibition of contemporary art and is one of the largest centres of contemporary art in the Balearic Islands as well as the rest of Europe. The art gallery displays paintings, sculptures, installations, graphics and photographs from international and local artists, some of which are also for sale.
There are several beaches near Andratx, mainly located around the neighbouring coastal areas of Sant Elm, Port d'Andratx and Camp de Mar. The closest ones, in Camp de Mar, are only within a five-minute drive or a 15-minute bus ride away.
Tucked away in a sheltered bay on the southwest coast and protected from the island’s gusty winds, surrounded by the wonderful aroma of the neighbouring pine trees, Camp de Mar is a modestly sized purpose-built resort.
Cala Fornells’ overhanging pine trees offer ample areas of natural shade and retreat away from the Balearic sun, not to mention adding to the overall charm of the Mallorcan cove.
Tucked around the corner from Port d'Andratx, Cala Llamp Bay offers one of Mallorca’s most superb views. High cliffs from the surrounding Tramuntana mountains, create the crescent shaped bay filled with calm and beautifully clear water.
Sant Elm has the largest sand beach in the south west corner of Mallorca, beyond Andratx.
The beach at Santa Ponsa is a lovely golden sandy beach in the heart of the resort, backed by shady pine trees for when you need some respite from the heat.
Attracting thousands of tourists annually and especially popular with Brits and package holiday makers, Palmanova is a purpose built resort next to Magaluf in south west Majorca. Palma Nova actually hosts three separate ‘Blue Flag’ beach areas, Playa de Palmanova, Playa Son Matias and Playa Es Carregador.
Dining in Andratx is all about local flavour and laid-back charm. While most of the area’s
dining scene is centred around nearby Port d’Andratx, the town of Andratx itself still has a handful of great places to eat. You'll find a mix of traditional Mallorcan spots, known for their home-style cooking and relaxed courtyards, as well as a couple of friendly Italian eateries that are favourites among locals. Whether you're after a long lunch in the sun or a casual evening meal, Andratx offers an authentic, no-fuss dining experience that gives you a real taste of everyday life in this part of Mallorca.
Andratx hosts a lively market on Wednesday mornings where you'll find a wide selection of local produce, handicrafts, clothes, pottery and flowers.
There is a spring agricultural fair held at the beginning of April, which is one of the town's biggest events of the year and a great family day out. People will travel from across the island to take a look at livestock and an assortment of modern and old farm machinery or to buy some local produce or arts and crafts made on the island.
Sant Pere (or Saint Peter in English), is the patron saint of fisherman as well as of the town of Andratx and is celebrated on 29 June. The celebrations kick off with a high mass in the church of Santa Maria. There is a full program of activities which include music concerts, exhibitions, sporting events and more.
This year promises to be an unforgettable edition, featuring superb sailing conditions, friendly competition, and the debut of a cruising class for newcomers or those looking for a more relaxed experience on the water.
Llucmajor holds its annual harvest festival, with arts & crafts market, horses and dogs shows, live music and parties.
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.
For one weekend, the small town of Sant Joan in the centre of Mallorca honours one of the island's most traditional product, the botifarron or blood sausage.
Deep in the Tramuntana mountains lies the lovely village of Esporles. Every year, they host a sweet festival, full of local goodies for you to indulge on.
Get to know the best roads of the island with the exclusivity of having them closed to road traffic.
Andratx is set in beautiful countryside in the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, only a few kilometres from the coast, making it an ideal base for lovers of the great outdoors.
The Natural Park of Sa Dragonera island is situated around 10km away, in front of the beach town of Sant Elm. There are frequent boat trips connecting this coastal village with the beautiful, uninhabited island.
From Andratx, cyclists are spoilt for choice when it comes to cycling routes. The roads and scenery are very diverse, with a choice of coastal paths or thigh-busting ascents and descents found deep in the Tramuntana mountains.
The route from Andratx through to Port de Pollença has been described as one of the best in the world. It passes through some wonderfully pretty coastal villages including Estellencs and Banyalbufar then cuts across through the iconic mountain villages of Valldemossa, Deia, Soller, Lluc and Pollença before ending in Port de Pollença. Whichever route you decide to take, there are various companies on hand to rent you a bike.
A fairly easy cycle with a few hills to get the lungs and heart going - be careful of the midday sun!
A nice quiet route, if you stay away from the main roads and enjoy these resorts in a more laid back fashion.
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.
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.
On Saturday we hired bikes and set off on a hot afternoon to explore the beaches of Palma Bay. A shoreline cycle path runs from the northern end of Palma docks all the way to the resort S’Arenal in the south.
A flat road cycle but at a distance of 60km this could be a long ride for a beginner so be prepared!
Being at the bottom of a valley on the edge of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, there are plenty of walking trails to try in the area. The first stage of the famous Dry Stone Route starts in Port d’Andratx, travelling to Coma d’en Vidal.
Andratx is located in the south-west of Mallorca. From Andratx, the walk begins in the direction of S'Arracó, three kilometres away. A short rest in this delightful village gives you enough time for a visit to the parish church, where there is a statue of the Virgin "Our Lady of la Trapa".
Puigpunyent is located on the south-west of the island. This walk provides some magnificient scenery without having to leave the road, which goes from Capdellà to Puigpunyent. The route takes in a series of ascents and descents, and cuts across woods and fields, with different views at each curve of the road.
This famous walk runs from Port d'Andratx, in the south-west of Mallorca, all the way to Port de Pollença, in the north-west, following ancient cobbled paths through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
Camp de Mar is a purpose built beach resort with a really lovely beach, located on the south-west coast of Mallorca. This walk takes you along the coast and then over to Port Andratx, with an optional continuation to Sa Mola on the peninsula.
Mallorca offers excellent hiking and walking opportunities, and the months between October and May provide the perfect weather conditions for hikers keen to explore Mallorca’s varied and spectacularly scenic terrain.
From a distance this mountain looks like an impossible challenge, but the route is well graded with a handful of paths leading to its summit.
Paddle around the south western coast of Mallorca on our kayaks, exploring at your own pace and enjoying the stunning scenery this beautiful coastline has to offer.
Discover the southwestern coast of Mallorca on a stand-up-paddle board at your own pace, and enjoy the stunning scenery while practising an outdoor sport.
Your first underwater experience. For those who just want to try diving where fun and safety are guaranteed!
Paddle along the coast and between islands on our kayaks to visit the most interesting places of this beautiful area of Mallorca, such as a cave and a natural pool where you can snorkel or swim in crystal clear waters!
Snorkelling trip to the Malgrats Marine Reserve where you will be able to see a wide variety of marine wildlife.
Funny beach operates on Magaluf Beach, in front of MH Royal Beach, just down from Pirates.
Spacious five-bedroom villa with private heated pool, classic Mallorcan features, and a wealth of thoughtful facilities.
This elegant villa, set within the private Son Bunyola Estate, combines modern comforts with a serene atmosphere to ensure a truly relaxing holiday in Mallorca.
Historic four-bedroom villa with a unique bedroom set in a turret, private heated pool, and stunning coastline views.
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.
Price: €1,666
Villa Can Sort is located in a picturesque setting surrounded by the Serra de Tramuntana, for a relaxing holiday. It is a short drive from the old town of Soller, as well as the beach and restaurants of Puerto de Soller.
Empaltada is a truly luxury and stylish villa with private pool, combining a great privacy with classy details. The truly perfect holiday home for an unforgettable holiday on Mallorca.
Staying in short-term rental accommodation in Andratx gives you the freedom to enjoy the town at your own pace. Whether in the historic centre or near the mountains, it’s a relaxed and flexible base. With extra space and the option to cook or dine out, it’s ideal for a comfortable holiday.
The town of Andratx offers a couple of small hotels and holiday homes for rent. The neighbouring areas of Port d'Andratx and Camp de Mar have more choice of accommodation including boutique hotels.
First mentioned in 1450, this site consists of various properties united in the 18th century to form a 132-acres estate. The current buildings, reformed in the 19th century, have been lovingly restored in 2013 to open as a luxury hotel that includes beautiful gardens.
Price: €6,305
Located in the beautiful, peaceful valley in the southwest corner of Mallorca you will find the charming village of S’Arracó. The hotel is situated in a delightful, converted schoolhouse, rich in history and style, with stunning views and comfortable accommodation.
This sea-front hotel has 24 suites, all with a sea view. The sea, beaches and pinewoods create a peaceful, relaxing and comfortable atmosphere where you're sure to be able to unwind.
A 4-star beachfront aparthotel enjoying a stunning location at the base of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, with panoramic views over Sant Elm Bay and the nearby islands of Sa Dragonera and Es Pantaleu.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca, and Andratx is just under a 40-minute drive from Palma airport. Head towards Palma along the Ma-19, then use the Ma-20 ring road around Palma to avoid the city centre. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport by booking a private transfer.
There is no direct bus to Andratx from the airport, you'll have to change in Palma. Basically it wouldn't be our first choice of getting to Andratx.
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 transfer company offers cheap and reliable Airport Transfers to all destinations in Mallorca with official vehicles and professional drivers.
Multilingual company offering transfers from the airport to your destination.
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.
Find out all about what is happening in Mallorca and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience on the island.
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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