Santa Maria del Cami
Traditional rural town in the west of Mallorca
Santa Maria del Cami is a pretty little market town to the north of Palma. It resides just off the motorway that takes you north to Alcúdia and Pollença.
The picturesque town of Santa Maria del Cami, known by the locals as just Santa Maria, sits in Mallorca’s central flat plain, in one of the island's most prominent wine growing regions. On the doorstep of the Serra de Tramuntana, it boasts one of the most magnificent mountain backdrops while being surrounded by olive, almond and carob trees, along with a growing number of vineyards.
Most of the week, Santa Maria is a sleepy, authentic Mallorcan town with a good selection of cafes, restaurants and convenience stores.
Santa Maria del Cami is particularly attractive amongst internationals favouring rural life over the more touristy side of the island. Whilst the old finca-style properties are increasingly sought after by families and retirees from all over Europe, the population remains predominantly Spanish.
History & Culture in Santa Maria Del Cami
Early history
Much of the town was built in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, however, the original settlement dates back to the Arab rule over Mallorca when it was called ‘Mauia’, which translates into English as ‘Stop on the Wayside’.
Being within the flat plains of Binnissalem, Santa Maria del Cami has specialised in viticulture since ancient times, especially since the 18th century when they began to export brandy to the rest of Europe and South America.
Artistic history
Santa Maria has developed a reputation as one of Mallorca's artistic centres.
Many of the island's potters work close by, in Portol, while Santa Maria is the centre for manufacturing 'roba de llengues' ('cloth of tongues'), cotton woven into bright zigzag patterns and used in curtains, bedspreads and upholstery.
Wine
Falling within the Binnissalem region, Santa Maria del Cami is also a hub for winemaking, in fact, the town is surrounded by some of the top vineyards on the island which means many wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts travel to the area to sample its delights.
Sights & Attractions in Santa Maria Del Cami
History, architecture and culture in Santa Maria
Santa Maria del Cami’s parish church is one of the most beautiful buildings in the town and is a wonderful example of Mallorca’s Baroque past. You can’t help but admire the attention to detail that went into building the temple between 1718 and 1756.
The town hall, like in many other villages in Mallorca, is a typical 17th-century Renaissance building in the main square. It was once the town's prison, and it's still possible to peak through the iron fence to see the room where the prisoners were once kept.
The hike between Santa Maria del Cami and the village of Orient, through the valley of the Coanegra Gulley, provides the opportunity to stop and admire some of Mallorca’s most magical beauty spots including the Son Pou Avenc Cave and the Es Freu Waterfall.
Events in Santa Maria Del Cami
The weekly market
Santa Maria is home to one of Mallorca's biggest and best markets. Every Sunday, locals and visitors gather to search out bargains of everything from locally grown fresh produce to clothing or arts and crafts.
Dining in Santa Maria Del Cami
Dining in Santa Maria del Camí offers plenty of choice in a laid-back setting. You'll find everything from traditional Mediterranean fare to more creative and modern cuisine. Several spots in town serve fresh, seasonal dishes in pretty courtyards or restored historic buildings, adding charm to your meal. Italian food is also popular here, with a number of places known for their pizzas and pasta. For something lighter, there’s a vegetarian option with a menu full of nourishing, plant-based dishes. Whether you’re after a long lunch or a relaxed evening meal, the town caters to most tastes.
Restaurants in Santa Maria Del Cami
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Restaurant 19
Charming outdoor options in a secluded garden with a quality fusion menu.
Things to do in Santa Maria Del Cami
Santa Maria del Cami is in an advantageous position, just a short distance away from the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, making it a convenient base for walkers and cyclists. Wine lovers and visitors keen to immerse themselves in the Mallorca’s quiet rural life will also opt to stay around Santa Maria del Cami.
On Sundays, however, the whole place comes to life as it puts on its weekly market and the crowds flock to pick up fresh produce, locally made arts and crafts and other bargains.
Wine tasting
Located in the region of Binissalem, Mallorca's largest wine producing area, Santa Maria del Cami is surrounded by some of the best vineyards on the island, where you can take a tour of the vineyards and arrange tastings if you make a prior appointment.
Cycling in Santa Maria Del Cami
Being based in Santa Maria del Cami means you have got a good choice of terrain to choose from.
Head straight for the mountains to indulge in some more challenging exercise with steep ascents and descents and, of course, some breathtaking scenery.
Cycling Routes in Mallorca
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Cycling from Palma to Playa de Palma
On Saturday we hired bikes and set off on a hot afternoon to explore the beaches of Palma Bay. A shoreline cycle path runs from the northern end of Palma docks all the way to the resort S’Arenal in the south.
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Seeing Palma by bicycle
Palma is a really bike friendly city. The giveaway is the prominent red cycle route running all along the Paseo Maritimo and through the city centre. The weather is perfect for it too. Despite the obvious benefits of urban exploration on two wheels, Palma on Bike was my first experience of cycling in the capital.
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Palma to S'Arenal Cycling Route
Enjoy a flat route by the sea that is completely on purpose made cycle paths so that it is safe for all the family to cycle. It takes you from the capital city of Palma to the beach resort area of Playa de Palma.
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Cycling Tour Through Central Mallorca
A cycling tour with Mills and Honey isn't just about cycling, it's about immersing yourself in the landscape, culture and flavours of the island.
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Port de Soller to Port d'Andratx Loop Cycling Route
The southern end of the Sierra Tramuntana does not have the epic climbs of the north, however this rolling ride provides no less than six different summits as well as some of Mallorca's most scenic roads.
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Port de Soller to Valldemossa Loop Cycling Route
Cycling from Port de Soller along the coast and through Deia, you will then travel on to Valldemossa before heading back inland and finishing over the Coll de Soller.
Hiking in Santa Maria Del Cami
For a leisurely route, you can take to the lanes on the flat plains and admire the picture perfect landscapes containing fields of vines, almond and olive trees with the occasional finca in between.
Walking Routes in Mallorca
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Alaro to Castle of Alaro Hiking Trail
Alaró is located in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, between Palma and Inca.
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Walk from Lloseta to Hermitage of Santa Llucia
Lloseta is located in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, just outside Inca. You can catch a train there from Palma (Plaza de España). From Lloseta you can take the road going to Mancor de la Vall, passing by Biniamar.
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The Gully of Biniaraix
Leaving Soller and hiking through the Serra de Tramuntana valley this trail follows cobbled paths that lead to a unique sequence of cliffs, crags and stone slopes. The area was declared an asset of Cultural Interest in 1984.
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The Archduke's Bridlepath, Valldemossa
Valldemossa is located near the west coast of Mallorca. This walk was mapped out by Archduke Ludwig Salvatr during tours of his estates by mule.
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Mont Reials and Rocafort Trail
This route includes an attractive ascent on cobbled paths via the Mont-Reials path and a descent via the Rocafort joined by a stretch of the Castello path. This walk captures some of the best views of the Soller valley.
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Hiking from Algaida to Cura Sant Honorat Gracia & Randa
Algaida is located towards the middle of the island, about 15 km east of Palma. This hike can start from the town of Algaida, walking towards Castellitx, where there is a beautiful hermitage, the "Ermita de la Pau" that is well worth visiting, and then on to Aubella, where the climb to Cura starts.
Holidays Rentals in Santa Maria Del Cami
Most accommodation in Santa Maria comes in the form of fincas just outside the town which have been tastefully restored and transformed into guest houses. Staying in short-term rental accommodation gives you the freedom to enjoy the town at your own pace. Whether in the historic centre or in the country, it’s a relaxed and flexible base. With extra space and the option to cook or dine out, it’s ideal for a comfortable holiday.
Hotels in Santa Maria Del Cami
Boutique hotels in the centre
When staying here look for hotels surrounded gardens and an outdoor or indoor swimming pool
Hotels in Santa Maria Del Cami
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Sa Cabana Hotel
23 August 20257 NightsThis hotel is located in the heart of Mallorca, between Consell and Binissalem, an area well know for its wines.
Price: €1,607
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S'Hort de Son Caulelles Agroturisme Hotel
Situated within a 20 minute walk to the town centre of Marratxi, it features an outdoor pool and a tour desk, as well as spa facilities.
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Torrent Fals Finca Hotel, Santa Maria del Cami
One of the oldest farms in Santa María, the house is surrounded by vineyards and even produced its own wine until just a few years ago. It has been renovated following the style of the typical inns in the Burgundy region and has become a very unique hotel with spectacular views either to the vineyards or to the Tramuntana mountain range.
How to get to Santa Maria Del Cami
By car
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca. Santa Maria del Cami is about 20 minutes away from Palma airport by car. Alternatively book a private transfer to take the hassle out of driving yourself.
Public transport
Train services run between Palma’s Estació Intermodal and Santa Maria del Cami a number of times per hour. The town claims some of the best transport links to the rest of the island thanks to being on three of the main railway lines in Mallorca.
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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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.
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Mallorca Private Airport Transfers
Great quality service at rates that are irresistible. This company exclusively transfer you around Mallorca without having to pay an excessive price.
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Mallorca Taxi Car
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
