Deià

History & Culture in Deia

Deià's early history

The name Deià (or 'Deya') comes from the Moorish conquest of Mallorca between the 10th and 13th centuries. They called the area 'Ad-Daya' which means 'village' and, during their time here they created the terraced irrigation systems that allowed the steep hillsides to be cultivated for farming. Olive trees flourished up to an altitude of 600 metres, and today cover much of the hillsides above the town.

After the Christian conquest in 1229, Deià was presented to the Count of Rosselló and became a part of Valldemossa. In fact, the towns of Valldemossa and Deià formed a single municipality for over three centuries. However, after decades of fighting for independence, Deià became an individual town in 1583. On this date, its inhabitants began building a church on a nearby hill. In the centuries that followed, the village flourished due to its olive cultivation, along with fishing and farming of citrus fruits, and the population grew to 1,500.

The 19th century to present day

Since the 19th century, Deià has famously attracted artists, musicians and those in search of a bohemian lifestyle. The Archduke Ludwig Salvador of Austria was so captivated by the area that he purchased several estates: Miramar, now a hotel, and Son Marroig, a wedding venue that also hosts annual festivals and concerts. Robert Graves made his family home here; named Ca N'Alluny, it is now open to the public having been turned into a museum in 2005.

See our History Guide

Sights & Attractions in Deia

Deià’s charm lies in its serene ambiance and breathtaking surroundings, offering visitors a relaxing escape with stunning sea and mountain views. The village is known for its leisurely dining experiences, scenic walks, and visits to the picturesque cala. 

History, architecture and culture in Deià

If you find yourself in Deià, a visit to Robert Graves’ former home is a must. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, with much of the original charm and atmosphere lovingly preserved. Wander through rooms filled with his personal belongings, including a well-thumbed guestbook, and take in the peaceful gardens filled with orange, lemon, almond, and olive trees.

If you’re a fan of Graves’ writing, take a stroll along Carrer es Puig, the village’s main street. Follow the ceramic Stations of the Cross up to the 15th century Parish Church of San Juan Bautista. Just behind it, in a quiet cemetery, you’ll find Graves’ resting place marked by a simple stone that reads "Robert Graves Poeta 1895–1985". For a deeper look into his life on the island, you might enjoy reading Wild Olives, written by his son William Graves.

Looking to indulge? Head to La Residencia, a former Sir Richard Branson property now run by Belmond hotel chain. Now a luxury escape it has welcomed famous faces like Princess Diana and Robbie Williams. You can visit for afternoon tea and enjoy homemade scones and pastries, fine teas, and even a glass of champagne if you’re celebrating something special. There's even a gallery called Sa Tafona, where you can view works from cherished artists Joan Miró, David Templeton and Arturo Rhodes who all spent time in Mallorca

For a bit of history, visit Es Clot, the local archaeological museum set in a charming old mill. Founded by Dr William H Waldren, it showcases fascinating finds from sites around the island, including ancient tools and the remains of the now-extinct myotragus, a native mountain goat.

The main coastal road passing through Deià can get busy, and parking is scarce in summer. 

Beaches in Deia

From Deià you can walk down to Cala Deià. It takes about 30 minutes on foot to reach the small shingle beach set in an attractive cove. Be warned, or perhaps be inspired, local artists continue the Graves tradition of naked swimming and long parties at weekends. There are two restaurants here, with fresh fish as their speciality although they are only open during the summer season.

Events in Deia

Music festival

The main event in town is the Deià International Music Festival which takes place every summer between May and September across some of the village's most iconic buildings. It features an array of different music concerts taking place throughout the festival, from solo pianists to full orchestras.

Dining in Deia

You’re in for a treat when it comes to dining in Deià. The village is known for its top-quality restaurants that attract a stylish and well-heeled crowd.

For something more rustic and truly Mallorcan, seek out one of the traditional spots tucked into beautifully restored old buildings. Think stone walls, flickering candlelight, and a relaxed, elegant feel. If you’re in the mood for something more low-key, there are cosy tapas bars where you can enjoy delicious small plates in a friendly and informal setting. Craving paella or local classics without any fuss? There are simple, no-frills eateries where the focus is all on flavour.

Just a short walk or drive from the village brings you to Cala Deià, where you can tuck into fresh seafood right by the water. Some places are perched right on the rocks, giving you jaw-dropping sea views while you dine. Others are just across the cove, offering equally lovely vistas and a laid-back, rustic atmosphere with a strong focus on dishes from the sea.

In the village itself, you’ll also find a few international options. There are stylish spots serving up Asian-inspired dishes packed with flavour, often with lovely views of the mountains. If you’re in the mood for Italian, you’ll come across inviting restaurants offering fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza, and all those rich Mediterranean favourites in a warm and welcoming setting.

Things to do in Deia

A trip to Deià is all about getting some downtime in a peaceful setting, sitting on terraces, soaking up the Mediterranean sun and enjoying spectacular views across the mountains. At the same time, being located in Mallorca’s legendary Serra de Tramuntana mountain range means Deià is also a wonderful base for the outdoorsy type who enjoy hiking, cycling and more.

Cycling in Deia

Many of the most popular cycling trails on the island travel straight through the village of Deià which means cyclists donning their best lycra are a common sight in the cooler months on the island. The twisting ups and downs provide thigh-busting workouts and, whether you fancy the coastal route or exploring some of the inland beauty spots, there are dozens of routes to choose from.

See our Cycling Guide

Hiking in Deia

There are plenty of hiking trails in the hills above Deià, thanks to the ancient paths created by Archduke Salvador that link many of the quaint mountain villages in the Serra de Tramuntana.

Check at the tourist office for maps and trail information, but the most famous is the GR221 Stage 3A (the dry stone route) from Valldemossa to Deià. For part of this trail, you will join the Archduke's bridleway, an old cobbled path built by the Austrian Archduke Ludwig Salvator in the 1860s and 70s along Mallorca’s stunning coastline. It’s a five-hour walk, so not for the faint-hearted but well worth it.

See our Hiking & Walking Guide

Nightlife in Deia

A second-home haven to the rich and famous, whilst Deià doesn’t boast any nightclubs per se, it sees a fair share of impressive private parties and has a couple of trendy cocktail bars to try. Alongside the International Music Festival and Deià Art Festival, the summer nightlife here is often tastefully animated.

Holidays Rentals in Deia

Staying in short-term rental accommodation in Deià 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.

Hotels in Deia

Luxury hotels

Luxury hotels in Deià offer a unique blend of charm, heritage and refined comfort, perfectly suited to the village’s artistic and tranquil atmosphere. Often set in beautifully restored historic buildings, many of these hotels feature traditional Mallorcan architecture, antique furnishings and elegant decor that reflect the area’s character. You can expect lush gardens filled with olive and citrus trees, serene swimming pools, full-service spas and fine dining with views of the mountains or sea. With a strong focus on personalised service and attention to detail, staying in one of Deià’s luxury hotels feels more like being welcomed into an exquisite private home than a typical resort.

Boutique hotels

There are a few boutique-style hotels in and around the town set in renovated buildings from the 17th century onwards which retain many characterful original features. These hotels offer a more intimate vibe.

Budget-friendly hotels

If you want to be in the centre of Deià, there are a couple of small hotels which are a little more budget-friendly. These establishments are simple in decor with traditionally furnished rooms, swimming pools and small restaurants offering delicious local cuisine.

How to get to Deia

By car

Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Deià is a 45 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.

Public transport

There are no direct buses to Deià from the airport, you have to change buses in Palma and they only run one per hour.

See our Getting Here Guide