Felanitx
Traditional rural town in the south east of Majorca
Felanitx is a small town in the southeast corner of Mallorca. It lies inland from its closest seaport of Porto Colom and is the administrative centre for the area.
Felanitx is the main town of Mallorca's second wine-producing area, Pla & Llevant, which produces a variety of white whites and fresh red wines. It is set in lovely countryside - close by you have the Sanctuary Sant Salvador and Castle Santuari, both of which are perched on top of hills and have wonderful views of both Mallorca and the sea. The town is also known for its capers or 'green pearls'. You can buy them at the Sunday morning market, which spills out onto the streets around the church of Sant Miquel, with local pottery displayed on the church steps.
History & Culture in Felanitx
The name Felanitx comes from the Latin fenalicius, which translates to 'where much hay is produced'. There is evidence of settlers from the Bronze Age and the Roman period. When the Muslims ruled Mallorca ferom 902 to 1229, Felanitx had a mosque and the site of Santuari Castle was a fortress.
During the 19th century, the vineyards of Felanitx helped place it on the map and it became Mallorca's third city after Palma and Alcudia. Once the vine disease phylloxera wiped out the vineyards, the local population relied on other agriculture for survival until the advent of tourism in the late 20th century.
Sights & Attractions in Felanitx
Santuari Castle was first documented in 1228 and sits on a hill (408m) overlooking the town and the sea. The monastery of Sant Salvador has existed since 1348, with the current structure being built in 1707-34. It has amazing views over Mallorca and you can stay there in simple accommodation.
Sant Miquel church (from the 16th century) dominates the town centre. The church facade contains a memorial to 414 people who died when a wall collapsed in 1844. Further up, beneath the rose window, you can see the archangel Michael standing on the Devil's head.
The other main attraction in the area are the vineyards. Many are open to the public but book in advance if you would like a tasting or a tour.
Sights in Felanitx
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Sanctuary de Sant Salvador, Felanitx
This old hermitage, 509m above sea level at the highest point of the Serra de Llevant near the town of Felanitx, was the senior house of Mallorca's monastic order and the last to lose its monks in 1992.
Beaches in Felanitx
The nearest beach is at Porto Colom and the surrounding coastline.
Beaches in Mallorca
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Cala Varques Beach, East Mallorca
Cala Varques (also known as Cala Barques) is a quiet, untouched beach about 12 km south of Porto Cristo, on the east coast of Majorca. This beach continues to grow in popularity, with more visitors now than ever before. Despite the summer crowds and 15 minutes’ walk to get there, this beach is well worth your visit.
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Cala Sa Nau Beach
Escape the crowds on the beaches of Cala d'Or by heading 3 km north to the bay of Cala Sa Nau. This relaxed beach is surrounded by pine trees and is very picturesque.
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Cala d'Or Beach
Spread over a continuous stretch of Mallorca’s southeast coastline, the beach resort of Cala d'Or is made up of several inlets and a group of beaches that can be found in smaller coves, more commonly known as ‘calas’.
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Calo d'es Burgit Beach, South-East Mallorca
Calo d'es Burgit is a small bay on the south east coast of Mallorca, just around the corner from Cala Mondrago and within the protected Mondrago Natural Park.
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Cala Mondrago Beach, South-East Mallorca
Considered one of Mallorca's most beautiful areas with its sand dunes, pine forests, beautiful coastline and rocky coves, Cala Mondrago, (often referred to as ‘Caló de n’Alis’) has formed part of Mondrago National Park since 1992, greatly benefitting from the disallowing of any further development.
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Cala Barca Beach, South-East Mallorca
Cala Barca is a small but pretty bay on the edge of Mondrago Park in the south east of Mallorca. It's 35 metres long by 25 metres deep and has golden sand.
Events in Felanitx
Felanitx holds a weekly market on Sunday mornings. There is also a covered market Sa Placa which sells food and flowers and is open Tuesday to Sunday throughout the year. There are annual fairs held in Felanitx during May (May Fair), August (summer festival Sant Augustin), September and October (Harvest festivals).
Events in Felanitx
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Nit de l'Art, Felanitx
Every summer, the lively market town of Felanitx becomes the centre of the art world in Mallorca. Art galleries and other spaces throughout town will be showing some of the best art on the island.
Things to do in Felanitx
The golf course Vall d'Or has 18 holes and is situated on the road to Portocolom. There are many hiking trails in the area, and cyclists can enjoy countryside lanes, coastal routes and more hilly challenges. There is a yacht club in Portocolom and here you can engage in sailing, diving and sea fishing.
Things To Do in Felanitx
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Son Menut Horse Riding Centre, Felanitx
Located in the east of Mallorca, Son Menut is a well established horse riding centre and stud farm. They offer lessons for beginners and advanced riders, with dressage and jumping also available.
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Beginners 5 Day Horse Riding Holiday
Fall in love with horseriding as you explore the beautiful island of Mallorca with an experienced local guide.
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Beginners 7 Day Horse Riding Holiday
Fall in love with horseriding as you explore the beautiful island of Mallorca with an experienced local guide.
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Show Jumping Horse Riding Holiday
For those who want it all, combine show jumping lessons, trail riding, and luxury accommodation for a fantastic holiday.
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A la Carte Horse Riding Holiday
Explore the magical island of Mallorca on horseback with an experienced local guide.
Hotels in Felanitx
There are some charming finca hotels in the area that offer quiet and comfortable accommodation for those looking for a peaceful vacation.
Hotels in Felanitx
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Finca Son Jorbo Hotel, Porreres
Run by a German couple and set in a rural location in central Mallorca with views over the local countryside and mountains, Finca Son Jorbo offers style and comfort in a restored 17th century country house. With the convenience of bed and breakfast and the added benefit of fully equipped self-catered apartments, Finca Son Jorbo is the perfect combination.
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Ca'n Bessol Finca Hotel
This country estate is situated in the south-east of the island, very close to marvellous unspoilt beaches. The farmhouse was built during the 18th century by the ancestors of the family.
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Can Feliu Finca Hotel, Porreres
An old country house from the 17th century, which has been carefully renovated respecting all the original architectural elements using traditional and ecological materials.
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Sa Tanca des Garbello B&B
Located in the South East of the island, between the small town of Calonge and Cala Dor. Furnished with attention to detail, the estate is located in a unique and quiet location, among the pristine countryside.
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Son Josep de Baix Finca Hotel
The hotel is composed of various buildings in a sobering Mallorcan style. They are distributed around a great courtyard with a well and cistern in the centre.
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Ca's Pages des Pujol Hotel
This huge house from the 13th century with its private chapel is situated on the hillside, offering marvellous views over the sea. It retains all its character as its original state has not been altered.