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Banyalbufar

Pretty coastal village in the west of Majorca

featured in Towns & Villages Updated

Banyalbufar is one of the last remaining authentic coastal villages in Mallorca. It clings to the western coastline of the island on a steep hillside at the edge of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. Most people come to Banyalbufar to see one thing, its ancient terraced hillsides descending down to the sea, but glorious views of the Tramuntana mountains and amazing sunsets also await you here.

There is little sign of tourism in Banyalbufar - you will find a couple of simple hotels, cafés and an art gallery. Its remote location means there’s only a small number of residents in the village. If you're keen to get away from the touristy side of Mallorca, then Banyalbufar is the place to visit. This small and traditional village is steeped in history, which is amplified by the ancient blonde stone buildings that line every road and lane. Its charms have attracted many artists to the point that many say that Banyalbufar will be the next Deià.

The land surrounding the village was developed by the Moors and divided by dry stone walls. These ancient terraces still stand today and speak powerfully of man's ingenuity in creating farmland out of inhospitable cliffs. Until recently it was the custom for each generation to add a further tier to the landscape. 

Nowadays, the terraces are mostly used to grow vegetables and fruit. Tomatoes are the town's most famous crop but a few vines have been planted once again.

History & Culture in Banyalbufar

Banyalbufar's early history

The Moors famously settled in this area during the 10th century and cultivated around 2,000 dry stone terraces on the mountain slopes, along with a sophisticated irrigation system of aqueducts which are still in use today. Banyalbufar, whose Arabic name means 'vineyard by the sea', was famed for its Malvasia wine. During the Middle Ages and up until the 15th century, the valley was ruled by the Barony of Banyalbufar under a practically absolutist government. 

Wine cultivation

Locals devoted themselves almost exclusively to agriculture and the area became famous for the cultivation of the widely popular Malvasia grape, used to produce Malvasia wine. It is said that this sweet wine was one of the motives for the re-conquest of Mallorca by Jaume I. Unfortunately, in 1891 the Phylloxera virus caused devastation and put an end to wine production in Banyalbufar. 

In recent years, local vignerons have been successfully working to re-establish this grape variety.

See our History Guide

Sights & Attractions in Banyalbufar

History, architecture and culture in Banyalbufar

Built to protect the area from pirate attacks, Torre del Verger is a watch tower dating back to 1579 and can be found between Banyalbufar and Estellencs. It has become quite an iconic image on the island, so it’s more than likely to you spot this image on a postcard whilst visiting Mallorca. If you get a chance, it's well worth seeing it for yourself and you can climb to the top for some breathtaking views across the sea.

The church of La Nativitat de Santa Maria houses one of the most valuable Baroque organs in the world, and definitely adds to the old-world charm of the place. 

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Beaches in Banyalbufar

There are no sandy beaches in the vicinity of Banyalbufar as the village is mainly bordered by cliffs plunging into the sea. However, there are a number of tranquil coves and pebbled beaches nearby if you want to do some sunbathing or swimming and, a short walk away, you will find Cala Banyalbufar. Alternatively try Es Corral Fals, Son Bunyola or Es Port des Canonge.

Beaches in Mallorca

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Events in Banyalbufar

Religious festivals

Banyalbufar’s patron saint festivities are celebrated the first week in September when the village comes to life with street parties and entertainment for all the family. 

Dining in Banyalbufar

There are a few good restaurants and cafés in Banyalbufar, most are traditionally decorated and serve up good honest traditional Mallorcan and Mediterranean cuisine. Relax and enjoy the celebrated ancient terraces with breathtaking views of the sea. Paella is the thing to order, alternatively you'll find good quality meat and fish, along with some good old favourites like pizza.

Restaurants in Banyalbufar

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Things to do in Banyalbufar

Being a sleepy rural mountain village, there isn’t a great deal to do here except admire the views. It’s more of a day-trip destination for cyclists, hikers and artists.

Wine tasting

You'll find a small and beautiful bodega with an enchanting terrace that is a wonderful place to try the native Malvasia grape.

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Cycling in Banyalbufar

Being on the edge of the Serra de Tramuntana along a popular coastal road means there are lots of cyclists riding through Banyalbufar. 

If you aren’t staying here, it also provides the perfect pitstop on the cycle route from Andratx to Valldemossa along the C-710 road. Expect winding roads, steep climbs and descents, the perfect ingredients for a challenging cycling ride.

Cycling Routes in Mallorca

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Hiking in Banyalbufar

Hiking is especially populare around Banyalbufar and there are plenty of paths to explore, many of which are signposted from within the village. 

One of the prettiest is the Volta des General route, a popular well-marked hiking path from just outside the village to the fishing port of Es Port de Canonge along the coast. 

There’s also the Old Postman’s Route from Banyalbufar to Esporles, which is part of the GR221 or Dry Stone Route and offers some of the best views of the terraced landscape.

Walking Routes in Mallorca

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Hotels in Banyalbufar

There is a handful of hotels in Banyalbufar, simple and traditionally decorated, most offer wonderful sea views. 

You can expect charming boutique hotels set within a historical buildings where each room is individually decorated and has a home-from-home rustic ambience complimented by modern amenities like flatscreen TVs. Others are a little more old-fashioned, but still comfortable with all the basics caterd for. 

Some have an outdoor terrace, usually surrounded by blonde stone creating a wonderfully romantic setting, or you may find a pool and gardens to relax in.

Hotels in Banyalbufar

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How to get to Banyalbufar

By car

Car hire is still a viable option on Mallorca, and with Banyalbufar being on the west coast of Mallorca, it's around a 40-minute drive from Palma airport. Access to the village is by small and windy coastal roads, often occupied by cyclists so this route isn’t for the faint-hearted driver. To avoid driving altogether you can book a private transfer to get you there and back.

Public transport

You can catch the bus from the bus station in Palma, but it's not regular and we wouldn't recommend it as your first choice of travel.

Transfers for Mallorca

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See our Getting Here Guide

Location

Map of the surrounding area

News

Events

  • Sunset Market, Puerto Portals
  • Copa del Rey, Palma
  • A steinway & sons piano with a violin on the keys
  • Nit de l'Art S'Arraco
  • Los Secretos Port Adriano
  • La Patrona Festival, Pollenca