Binissalem
Traditional rural town and wine growing region in central Mallorca
If you are familiar with Mallorcan wine, then it's more than likely you will have heard of Binissalem. This small town in central Mallorca is most famously associated with wine production. Surrounded by some of the island's best vineyards and bodegas, wine buffs should make it their mission to stop by on a trip to the island.
Aside from its wine roots, the town itself predominantly remains a sleepy, authentic, blonde sandstone Mallorcan village. There are a few bars and restaurants available servicing mainly the locals as well as a few tourists visiting the town. Binissalem lies where the Mallorcan plains meet the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, making it a popular pit-stop for outdoor enthusiasts, although many are drawn to the surrounding countryside filled with vineyards and orange and almond groves.
The town boasts excellent travel links as it is just off the main motorway travelling between Palma and Alcudia. The fact that the train service from the capital reaches Binissalem also means it is well connected to other towns around the island.
History & Culture in Consell
The Romans and wine
Viticulture was introduced to Mallorca by the Romans and Binissalem was one of the island's most prominent regions for growing wine right up until the 19th century. It famously exported high-quality produce to the rest of Europe but, like the rest of the island, this industry was completely wiped out by the plague of Phylloxera in the late 19th century.
In recent years, the wine industry has been revived and improved with Binissalem being the first area to be awarded a DO (Denominació d'Origen) in 1990.
Modern vineyards
The reputation of Binissalem red wines, made with the local grape Manto Negro, has seen the most growth during the last 20 years or so. Local growers are passionate about their product and are dedicated to raising the profile of Mallorcan wine. If you're buying, remember that 'crianza' wines are the youngest while 'reserva' and 'gran reserva' have been aged for longer.
Binissalem also developed a reputation for producing fine woodwork and stonework in the mid 20th century. There are still successful and active quarries in or near the town which are producing even today.
Sights & Attractions in Consell
History, architecture and culture in Binissalem
The most iconic piece of historic architecture in Binissalem is the 15th century Gothic church of Santa Maria de Robines, although its Neo-Gothic bell tower wasn’t completed until 1908.
Many of the buildings in town date back to the 18th century, and, in 1983, the Municipal Government of the Balearics declared Binissalem a historic-artistic site, awarding it special protection from future development.
Events in Consell
Wine festival
In the third week of September, the Festa des Vermar (Binissalem’s wine festival) takes place and all things wine appear on the streets, including special recipes with grapes and wine and, of course, many opportunities to taste some local potions. The most exciting part of this festival is the grape fight, where locals (and brave visitors) dress up in white clothing and paint the town purple as they pelt each other with bunches of grapes. It has to be seen to be believed! The festivities conclude with a harvest supper in which the town’s traditional dish, Fideus de Vermar, is served. This local recipe usually encompasses small noodles, red wine and mutton.
Craft fair
Binissalem is famed for its native stone and, at the end of May, the town puts on its annual Stone Craft Fair where this traditional craft is showcased around the streets of the town. The fair coincides with a local produce celebration, making it a popular place for locals to come together.
Weekly market
Binissalem’s weekly market is held every Friday morning in the square by the church. Other food and drink events are held throughout the spring and autumn, celebrating local agricultural successes.
Dining in Consell
If you're after something truly authentic, try a traditional Mallorcan delicacy – snails.
If that particular speciality doesn't tempt your taste buds, don't worry, there are other charming places that serve quality Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
Restaurants in Consell
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Es Rústic Restaurant
Located in Consell
This family run restaurant open since 2012, has a welcoming atmosphere and a small but varied menu. It is the ideal restaurant for a special evening.
Things to do in Consell
Unsurprisingly, wine is the main attraction in this area. Many enjoy visiting the local vineyards for tours and tastings. Most of the vineyards have shops with their wine for sale, so you can also take your favourite bottles home with you afterwards. There are lots of vineyards in the area but these are some who are especially well-versed in wine tours and tastings.
Villas in Consell
Holidays Rentals in Consell
It’s all about finca and villa rentals in this part of the island and you will find plenty of choice in the countryside surrounding Binissalem. This type of accommodation tends to appeal to families and large groups looking to escape the hustle and bustle of some of the tourist spots in favour of a rural escape in Mallorca.
Hotels in Consell
Alternatively, there are a couple of rural hotels nearby but nothing within the town itself.
You can expect boutique hotels housed in large old properties that are traditionally styled, with four-poster beds and antique furniture, swimming pools and wonderful restaurants with traditional local cuisine.
Hotels in Consell
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The Pink Pepper Tree Hotel
Nestled away from the hectic tourist areas, the Finca, dating back to 1570, is full of character and offers the perfect setting for romantic getaways.
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Son Palou Hotel, Orient
This hotel lies in the middle of a private estate of 150 hectares with large plantations of apple and cherry trees, cultivated fields and mountains. It is an ideal base for hiking, riding mountain-bikes or simply strolling around to watch the farmers pick cherries and apples.
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Finca Filicumis Hotel, Lloseta
Filicumis is a farm, built in 1828, situated on the slopes of the Tramuntana mountain range. The house is a typical Mallorcan farm with a central courtyard and a well, set in a typical Mediterranean landscape of almond, olive and fig trees.
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Casa Rural Ca'n Beia Hotel, Alaro
Charming rural hotel based on an old Mallorcan oil mill, in a property more than 200 years old. It has been recently refurbished, and is located in the heart of hiking and cycling land.
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Cas Comte Petit Spa & Hotel
Located in Inca
The building has a distinguished air, yet the hotel is a relaxed, friendly and comfortable place to stay.
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Es Quatre Cantons Agroturismo Hotel, Binissalem
Surrounded by gardens and Mallorcan style patios, with an extension of 10.000 m2, the house is located in Binissalem, one of the most important wine producers of the island. Within a 5 kilometres radius, there are the ten most important wine cellars of Mallorca.
How to get to Consell
By car
Binissalem is about a 30-minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport by booking a private transfer.
Public transport
There is no direct bus to Binissalem from the airport, you have to change in Palma for a train.
Transfers for Mallorca
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Luxury Chauffeur Services & Airport Transfers
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.
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Janer Bus Airport Transfers
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
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Taxi PMI
Taxi PMI is the Association of Taxi Drivers of Palma de Mallorca, who provide visitors with an efficient and reliable airport transfer service, whilst also eliminating the need to stand in a queue and wait for the next available taxi.
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Easy Majorca Taxi
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.
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MajorCabDriver Taxis
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
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Majorca Taxis Company Transfers
Multilingual company offering transfers from the airport to your destination.