Sant Elm
Pretty beach resort in the south-west corner of Mallorca
Sant Elm (also known as San Telmo in Spanish) is a charming coastal village in the far south-west corner of Mallorca. With the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains behind it and the uninhabited island of Sa Dragonera in front, you couldn’t ask for a more beautiful spot.
Sant Elm was named after the patron saint of sailors. In the past, it was a quiet fishing village. Today, it largely remains true to its roots, but a few good-quality restaurants have popped up in the area in recent years and have certainly added to its charms. It doesn’t really feel like a resort but there are a couple of hotels and a selection of villas in this neck of the woods, ideal for those keen to keep away from the beaten track of Mallorca’s southwestern coastline. With the Serra de Tramuntana on its doorstep, Sant Elm is also a prime location for hikers and cyclists to base themselves.
There is still very much a local feel to Sant Elm even if, over the years, international holidaymakers have been buying homes in the area. The winters here are particularly quiet with many restaurants closing for their annual break at this time of year. In the summer, Sant Elm does receive a good influx of day visitors due to its beautiful location. Many spend the day on the pretty sandy beaches or enjoy a lunch in one of the seafood restaurants on the coastline. Others travel to Sant Elm to catch a boat over to Sa Dragonera for the day to take a closer look at the natural flora and fauna on the uninhabited island.
History & Culture in [locality]
Formerly known as Palomera, this is the spot where the Christian troops of Jaume I arrived in 1229 to conquer the island of Mallorca from the Arabs, before heading to Santa Ponça. Over the centuries, Sant Elm has seen many attempted invasions, which led to Cala Basset watchtower being built in 1585 as an observation point from which to view attackers. Until the beginning of the 20th-century, the village relied on fishing. Now, whilst remaining true to its roots, the village is receiving more attention from holidaymakers visiting the island.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
Sant Elm has two ancient watchtowers along its coastline, firmly built to protect the town from pirate attacks. The most interesting one is the Sant Elm tower, an old sailors' hospital and oratory erected in 1279 by King Jaume II and turned into a tower because of the frequent pirate assaults in the 16th century. The one in Cala Basset was constructed in 1585 as a high point from which to warn other coastal towns of the arrival of the enemies by lighting a fire.
Near Sant Elm there is the quiet village of S'Arracó comprised of beautiful traditional Mallorcan houses interspersed with magnificent modernist palaces built with the money that the town's emigrants to France sent back to their families. Most of them are located on the main street, Calle França or France Street.
From Sant Elm, you can also take a hike and visit the splendid nature reserve of La Trapa, which is named after the Trappist monks who settled here in 1810. During their stay, they built a monastery. Today you can still see the ruins of its chapel, the mill and the dry-stone terraces and ancient water systems they created to sustain themselves. If this wasn't enough to tempt you, then perhaps the breathtaking views over Sa Dragonera from the viewing platform will win you over.
Sights in Mallorca
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Rafa Nadal Sport-Xperience Museum
This recently renovated museum has opened its doors for a second year with a renewed image and many new developments.
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Rialto Living Art Gallery
Rialto Living is Palma's most famous interior design and concept store. Located right in the heart of the city, it has a small art gallery inside with temporary art exhibitions.
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Lluc Sanctuary, Lluc
Mallorca's most sacred site - a former monastery in a spectacular setting in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains to the north west of Mallorca.
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Es Revellar Art Resort Galleries
The aim of this art installation is to bring art and nature together to be enjoyed in a tranquil complex set in an original 15th century Mallorcan country estate.
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Fundacio Pilar i Joan Miro
The painter and sculptor Joan Miro spent most of his life in Barcelona, but both his wife and mother were Mallorcan and he always longed to return to the scene of his childhood holidays to draw inspiraton from what he called "the light of Mallorca".
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Son Marroig
Of all the famous foreigners attracted to Mallorca's northwest coast, none is so admired locally as 'S'Arxiduc', Archduke Ludwig Salvador. Born in 1847 in the Pitti Palace, Florence, the son of Leopold III of Tuscany and Marie Antoinette de Bourbon, he came to Mallorca 20 years later to escape from Viennese court life and immediately fell in love with the island.
Beaches in [locality]
There are two main beaches in Sant Elm. The largest one is Sa Platja G or Es Geperut with 125 metres of soft sand dotted with sun loungers and parasols in the summer months. You will find watersports and pedaloes available to rent from this beach. Sa Platja Petita or Cala Petita is smaller and perfect for children because of its shallow waters. Both are only a short walk from the town's main car park. The coves of Cala en Basset, Es Carregador, Es Conills and Cala d'Egos feature turquoise waters with coarser sand or pebbles.
Beaches in Mallorca
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Sant Elm Beach, South-West Mallorca
Sant Elm has the largest sand beach in the south west corner of Mallorca, beyond Andratx.
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Cala Llamp Bay
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.
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Camp de Mar Beach, South-West Mallorca
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.
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Cala Fornells Beach
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.
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Santa Ponsa Beach, South-West Mallorca
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.
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Palma Nova Beach
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.
Events in [locality]
Along with many other towns along the coast, Sant Elm celebrates a Moors and Christians festival at the beginning of August. Another popular traditional fiesta here is the Pancaritats on Easter Monday, a religious celebration that sees locals parade to Sant Elm tower.
Events in Mallorca
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Pollença Music Festival
Since the Festival de Pollença began in 1962 at the hands of distinguished English violinist Philip Newman, more than eight hundred of the finest artists have performed for us at the Claustre de Santo Domingo.
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Festes de la Mare de Deu d'Agost, Sencelles
Sencelles celebrates the Virgin Mary, or the Mare de Deu d'Agost, with services, sports, fireworks, live music and more.
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Illes Balears Classics Sailing Regatta
Some of the most beautiful classic yachts from all over the world meet in Palma for this regatta which takes place over 4 days in Palma Bay.
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Festes de la Mare de Deu d'Agost & Sant Roc, Puigpunyent
Puigpunyent hosts its summer festival during the first couple of weeks of August with live music, activities for children and much more.
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Festes de la Mare de Deu d'Agost, Sineu
Take a trip to the lovely town of Sineu to experience some authentic Mallorcan festivities in the Festes de la Mare de Deu.
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Bonnie Tyler Concert
Bonnie Tyler celebrates at Port Adriano Music Festival her fifty years of musical career.
Dining in [locality]
Sant Elm has several lovely fish restaurants which have great views of the sea and over to Sa Dragonera. Restaurante de Na Caragola claims the crown for perfect situation in the village, here you can dine next to the sea with superlative views. Expect local and Mediterranean dishes on the menu including paella, the favourite of its clientele. Cala Conills is another fantastic option, with a modern nautical ambiance, their seafood platters, lobster and paella are the highlights here. Es Moli continues to be one of the most popular restaurants in the area. The food is of outstanding quality and it's great value for money. Although the restaurant isn’t set on the waterfront, it retains a loyal following and its terrace provides a lovely setting for its patrons.
Restaurants in Mallorca
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Barretes Restaurant at Ca's Xorc
Ca's Xorc Luxury Retreat is home to an abundance of delicious fresh and local food such as a selection of fruit and vegetables, fish, red shrimp, lamb and Iberico pork. The chef at Ca's Xorc interprets this local, Mediterranean cuisine in a modern and creative manner.
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Diferent Restaurant
Restaurant Diferent truly stands out. Beyond its eccentric and fun decor, it offers a vast international menu, a wide selection of wines, cocktails and fantastic, friendly service.
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Sa Magrana Restaurant
This award-winning restaurant offers creative, fresh-from-the-market cuisine.
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SoY Asian Kitchen and Bar
The little Asia of Mallorca, where the spices of Asia meet the local products of the nearby surroundings.
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La Pappa Restaurant
Enjoy the taste of Italy at La Pappa. They serve delicious homemade pasta and Neapolitan pizzas, crafted with care and tradition. Their Italian desserts and ice creams are also made in-house, offering a true taste of Italy.
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La Bodega Restaurant
This traditional Spanish restaurant is situated within the heart of Cala d'Or and has a phenomenal reputation for providing fantastic food, service and a welcoming, friendly atmosphere.
Things to do in [locality]
Sant Elm is a fantastic base for walkers. Visitors also come to enjoy the views over Sa Dragonera or sit in the stunning setting whilst watching the world as it goes by.
Boat trips
When staying in Sant Elm, visiting the uninhabited island of Sa Dragonera is a must. There are regular boat trips to this protected nature park during the peak season. Once there, there are many walking excursions that can be done.
Hiking
On the mainland, there’s a wonderful hike from Sant Elm that heads to the abandoned Trappist monastery of Sa Trapa, a round trip of around 3 hours through coastal maquis and pine trees with some of the finest views of Sa Dragonera. From here you can see that the island really looks like a dragon coming out of the sea, hence its name. There is also a shorter 2.5km walk, more suitable for families, to Torre de Cala Basset, another great place to appreciate the views over the protected islet. This tower was originally built as a lookout for Moorish pirates, as Sa Dragonera was supposedly used as a base to conquer Mallorca. Sa Dragonera is also great for hiking. One of the most popular trails is to the south of the island where the Cap de Lleibeitx lighthouse sits. For those keen to expel a little more energy, the Puig de Na Popia is another great walk with an incline of 312 metres.
Shopping
There are just a few shops in Sant Elm selling local arts and crafts and some local produce. A small market is also held in S'Arracó, a small village just 5km inland from Sant Elm, every Saturday.
Things To Do in Mallorca
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Sunset Boat Trip
Enjoy an evening cruise along the northwest Mallorcan coastline aboard one of a selection of 50ft vessels, as the mountains transform from pink to orange to red.
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Luxury Rehab Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
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Adventure Trekking
A day of Adventure Trekking is full of stunning landscapes and action-packed activities.
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Kayaking & snorkelling
Discover Mallorca’s stunning coastline from two unique angles - glide past cliffs and caves by kayak or dive below the surface on a guided snorkelling tour. These separate activities offer different ways to connect with the island’s wild beauty.
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Motor Yacht Trip (Fjord 39 XL)
Enjoy a fun full-day or half-day boat trip aboard this sophisticated Fjord 39 XL motor yacht.
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Guided Kayak Tour
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!
Hotels in [locality]
Although Sant Elm isn’t a major tourist destination, it does offer accommodation for those looking to base themselves away from the more touristy spots along the south-west coast of Mallorca. There’s a few hotels, apartments and villas within the village and in the surrounding area.
Most hotels here tend to be quite basic but certainly provide a great place to set up base for a relaxing holiday or an outdoors hiking trip. The Universal Aparthotel Don Camilo is one of the biggest aparthotels in the area. This a budget-friendly establishment is located right next to the beach and encompasses outdoor swimming pools, gardens, a buffet style restaurant and a children’s play area. There are studios, apartments and villas available to rent, making it the perfect option for families to spend their holiday. Another choice is Universal Aquamarin & Aquavill Hotel which offers bright, simple and clean accommodation with a large buffet restaurant. The sun terrace overlooking the beach is a real highlight.
Hotels in Mallorca
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Son Julia Country House Hotel
If you're looking for a perfect hideaway from your usual routine, then this lovely 15th century Mallorcan manor is the place to escape to.
Price: €3,105
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Ca's Xorc Luxury Retreat
Ca's Xorc Luxury Retreat is the place to stay if you're looking for somewhere that's rich in history but with all the modern amneties. Breathtaking views, gourmet cuisine and a relaxing environment, the ideal place for a peaceful stay in a beautiful location.
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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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Son Bunyola Hotel
Son Bunyola Hotel offers an intimate stay, providing the perfect base to explore Mallorca’s vineyards, olive groves, and charming countryside.
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Santa Clara Urban Spa & Hotel
This charming hotel is located in the historical old town, in the very heart of Palma de Mallorca. It is within easy walking distance of attractions such as the 10th century Arab baths and Palma's breathtaking gothic Cathedral.
Price: €2,180
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Cap Vermell Grand Hotel
This luxury resort is located in a quiet valley surrounded by natural beauty near the village of Canyamel. Built in a traditional Mallorcan-villa style, this retreat reflects local art and cultural heritage while offering five-star services and facilities.
How to get to [locality]
By car
Sant Elm is about a 40-minutes car journey away from Palma airport. The closest big town is Andratx which is about 10 minutes away.
Public transport
TIB bus number 100 travels a few times per day to and from Sant Elm from Palma. This route also connects Sant Elm to Andratx, S'Arracó, Peguera, Camp de Mar and Santa Ponça.
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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Shuttle Spain Transfers
With offices in Alcudia and the airport, Majorca Airport Transfers has a large fleet of taxis, minibuses and coaches to suit all group sizes.
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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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Majorca Taxis Company Transfers
Multilingual company offering transfers from the airport to your destination.