Mallorca Carnival - Sa Rua
Each year Mallorca celebrates the onset of Lent with street parties and parades. Most towns will be having their own carnival over the weekend, with the largest parties to be found in Palma.
Traditional rural town in the south east of Majorca
Santanyi is a historic rural town famous for its gold stone architecture. It’s charming, with quaint cobbled streets and a majestic church - all appealing for its slow pace of life.
You can sit and watch the world go by on one of the many terraces on the main square in front of the church. Market days are on Wednesdays and Saturdays and are the best day to come and soak up the atmosphere, as locals come out in full force to buy local produce.
Agriculture was the mainstay of the town until tourism arrived in the 1950s. Today, this beauty spot is particularly popular amongst German tourists, but also retains an all-year German community. Many creatives and artists have made it their home, so galleries and workshops can be found within the nooks and crannies around the town. Beautiful boutiques, trendy furniture shops and an array of top-class restaurants are also worth writing home about.
Santanyi’s location makes for an impeccable base to explore some of the island’s best beaches, so the town becomes a hot spot in the summer months, but has plenty to offer all year round. When it comes to accommodation in this area, there are a few boutique-style hotels within the town centre and some authentic rural agroturismo hotels in the surrounding countryside.
Santanyi boasts a jam-packed calendar of events throughout the year. It's highly recommended to come and see this town at its best on market days which are hosted every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the year.
Widely celebrated here, the most famous is the Festes de Sant Jaume which usually takes place across the last two weeks in July. Live music concerts, children’s activities and the legendary correfoc are included in the events programme.
The patron saint Sant Andreu is celebrated on 30 November, when the locals look forward to a week of cultural activities and the church hosts a special service to honour him. In October, Sa Fira de Santanyi celebrates local produce, including artisan crafts, agricultural products, and livestock.
Between April and September Santanyí hosts its own International Music Festival. Concerts are free and bring a variety of international artists to town.
Each year Mallorca celebrates the onset of Lent with street parties and parades. Most towns will be having their own carnival over the weekend, with the largest parties to be found in Palma.
Join Mallorca Entrepreneurs for a cosy and delicious Swiss Cheese Fondue Night in a warm and friendly atmosphere. This evening is designed for enjoying good food, relaxed conversation, and a shared dining experience with fellow entrepreneurs and language enthusiasts.
The Megamarsch returns to Mallorca for its its next edition. This extreme hiking challenge invites participants to walk 50 kilometres in 12 hours on a circular route starting and finishing in Alcúdia.
This annual funfair takes place at Son Fusteret, on the outskirts of Palma. With plenty of thrill-seeking rides, a 60-metre-high Ferris wheel, stalls, games and family activities, it's an event that families ought not to miss.
A significant celebration in Mallorca, this annual holiday, observed on March 1st, commemorates the date when the Balearic Islands' Statute of Autonomy was officially enacted in 1983.
Rally drivers from all over Europe take part every year in this rally, with more than 90% repeating pilots year after year. This high rate of repeating rally drivers is due to the high quality and fun that our pilots experience every time.
Although officially founded in 1300 by King James II of Mallorca, Santanyi actually dates back to prehistoric times, evident in the discovery of over 150 archaeological sites in the area. Its name is mostly likely of Latin origin - Agnus Sanctus - meaning holy lamb, which is why a lamb appears in the municipality's crest.
Phoenicians, Romans and Moors have occupied the island - and the town - over the years, and you'll find evidence of this rich history dotted throughout. In the 16th century the town was fortified, as along with much of Mallorca they suffered under threat of North African pirate attacks and looting. The fortified town wall and gate - Porta Murada - are remaining symbols of how the town defended itself from the marauding hordes. According to history books, many people took to sleeping in the town’s locked church during invasions. Forts and defense towers dating back to the 18th century mark the coastline, most notably Torre d’en Beu, in Cala Figuera.
Do not be surprised if the buildings in Santanyi look just that little bit more mellow yellow than elsewhere – this small town is the source of the golden sandstone used in Palma's cathedral and La Llotja among others. Santanyi stone is still quarried today.
The construction of Sant Andreu church began on 25 July, 1786, when the rector of Santanyí, Nicolau Pons, laid the first stone for the new church. It took 25 years to complete and was built with the special local sandstone. Each year the town celebrates the day the first stone was laid during the Festes de Sant Jaume.
A botanical garden attraction on the way to Ses Salines, covering an area of 150,000m2. Tropical jungle plants thrive almost side by side with subtropical flora and characteristic desert vegetation.
Located on the coastline between Cala Santanyi and Cala Llombards, Es Pontas is a famous natural arc rock formation in the sea. Meaning 'The Big Bridge', Es Pontas often appears on postcards and is a photo-worthy spot. This is where Chris Sharma cemented his reputation as the best deep water solo climber in the world, as he ascended it for the first time in 2006, giving it a difficulty of 9a+.
The local art galleries are worth visiting. Here you can pick up both local and international works from a number of reputable galleries and studios in town.
The Mondragó Natural Park is one of our favourite places on Mallorca. It is situated in the south, close to Santanyí, down tiny winding lanes lined with immaculate stone walls.
Santanyi is the administrative centre for the beach resorts of Cala d'Or, Portopetro, Cala Figuera, Cala Santanyi and Cala Llombards. This means that, within a 15-minute drive of Santanyi, you will be able to reach some of Mallorca’s best beaches complete with crystalline turquoise waters.
Located in a pretty cove with lovely fine sand, surrounded by rocky cliffs and pine forests, it’s no wonder Cala Santanyi is such a popular beach amongst those staying within the large resort-style hotels in this area. It's more than likely to be crowded with the lucky holidaymakers who have tumbled out of their hotel bedrooms onto the sand directly below.
Es Calò des Moro is one of those picture perfect calas that takes your breath away. 'One of the last paradises of Mallorca,' claims the foundation 'Amics d'Es Calò des Moro' which has been looking after it for the last fifteen years.
With beautiful views and crystal clear water it's a great place for swimming and snorkelling. Picturesque and quiet, it's no surprise that it's popular with the locals.
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.
S’Amarador is an award-winning glorious white sand beach that is part of the protected Mondrago National Park (south east Majorca, close to Cala d'Or), and so is beautifully unspoilt.
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.
If you love good food, you’re in for a treat. This town and the surrounding area are full of places that serve up all sorts of delicious dishes.
You might find yourself drawn to the charm of Mediterranean flavours, especially in the heart of town. Picture yourself sitting in a pretty courtyard, the sun warming your skin as you sip a cool drink and tuck into plates full of fresh, flavourful ingredients. In another corner you may spot a cosy terrace where traditional Mallorcan dishes are lovingly prepared, including a tasting menu that changes with the seasons and always delivers something special.
For those who enjoy nibbling on lots of little plates, tapas is the way to go - settle in and watch the world pass by while enjoying tasty bites and even a proper Mallorcan breakfast.
Music fills the backstreets on certain evenings, adding to the relaxed atmosphere, and if you’re travelling with family, there’s no need to worry about what everyone will eat. There are places that cater to every taste, offering tapas, classic main courses and even pizzas for those who like to keep it simple.
When the mood strikes for something a bit more refined, you’ll find a few gems that take dining up a notch. Elegant plates of contemporary Mediterranean cuisine served with flair and attention to detail, perfect for a special evening out. And if you're feeling indulgent, you can even treat yourself to oysters and caviar, with service and surroundings that make the whole experience feel truly memorable.
Anoa Restaurant, located in the centre of Santanyi, Mallorca, is a welcoming spot for traditional and authentic Spanish cuisine. Since opening in June 2013, it has become a local favourite, offering a relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes in a rustic interior, light courtyard, or sunny terrace.
Sa Cova offers breakfast, lunch and dinner in the Santanyi main square. Their live music is not to be missed on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 20.00.
Tucked away in Santanyí, often described as the secret capital of Mallorca’s enchanting south east, East26 Bar and Restaurant is a relaxed and welcoming spot that draws both locals and travellers throughout the day.
Set in the heart of Santanyí, Laudat Restaurant is a light, welcoming gastro restaurant where a love of good food and great wine takes centre stage. This Mediterranean-inspired spot combines a relaxed, homely atmosphere with thoughtful cooking and attentive service, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the moment.
Alchemy Restaurant, located in the heart of Santanyi on the main square, is a local favourite offering an authentic Mallorcan dining experience all day. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere where visitors can enjoy the rhythm of town life from its terrace. Live music is a regular feature, adding to the lively and enjoyable ambience.
Welcome to Lola, your ultimate summer hotspot in the heart of Cala d'Or, Mallorca! They're all about creating incredible experiences under the sun during the day and stars in the evening.
HPC Restaurant in Portocolom offers a relaxed Mediterranean dining experience with stunning sea views. Situated inside the Hostal Porto Colom Hotel, this stylish restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients with international and creative touches. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of dishes, including paella, fresh fish and seafood, local meats, carpaccio, gourmet burgers, creative salads, and homemade pizzas.
An unusual spot on Mallorca and very welcome because of that. It looks like it should be on the beach, and has a laid-back, cool, hippy vibe, with lots of wooden furniture and paper lanterns.
The Beach Bar is a real establishment in s'Illot, and prides itself on friendly and professional service. It also gets great reviews for it's food.
Latin music at its best at this nightclub in Cala Millor. Themed parties, some of the hottest DJs and plenty of Latin rhythm...
Located just 15 minutes from the city of Palma, this clifftop bar provides a relaxing oasis away from the buzz of the city. In the evening, their terrace bar serves incredible cocktails while the sun sets, offering a breathtaking spectacle.
Santanyi is great for a relaxing holiday in an authentic Mallorcan setting. There’s ample to do in the town but you should also get out to explore the local area and the beaches if you can.
There are a few boutique shops selling fashion, local artisan ceramics and interior design and for those keen to get their hands on the famous salt from Es Trenc there's a shop. Also don't forget the street market that takes place twice weekly when the town comes alive as the stalls fill the narrow alleyways around the main square.
Several vineyards in the area are available for tours and tastings by appointment. Son Alegre wine cellar produces organic wine and olive oil, while Bodega Es Fangar offers a premium wine tasting experience, which can be combined with an exclusive tour of the magnificent estate.
When we think of things to do, we also think of the activities on the nearby sea. From Colonia Sant Jordi you can hop on a boat across to the remote island and nature park of Cabrera, famous for its unspoiled natural beauty, rare species and crystalline waters. There are various trips available including day trips and sunset tours.
The Mondragó Natural Park is one of our favourite places on Mallorca. It is situated in the south, close to Santanyí, down tiny winding lanes lined with immaculate stone walls.
There are plenty of cycling trails to enjoy – the area is pretty flat so cycling is an easy way to get around. Bike rentals can be found in various resorts surrounding the town, particularly in Cala d’Or.
22km point to point but a longer day out at 44km if you do the return journey by bike instead of catching the bus.
A great way to explore this part of the coast and easy enough for the whole family to enjoy...especially with beach breaks along the way.
A flat road cycle but at a distance of 60km this could be a long ride for a beginner so be prepared!
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.
100,000 cyclists cannot be wrong. Mallorca is one of the most popular and idyllic islands for cycling with it's plentiful flat farm roads and challenging hill climbs.
An easy ride if you are used to road biking and at 44km this route could be a good challenge for a beginner!
The stunning Mondragó Natural Park is a must-visit. It has fabulous white sand beaches and walking trails in its natural flora and fauna. Cap de Ses Salines is a starting point for many hikes, the most popular of which is the 12.5km trail from Cala Lombards.
Don’t want to leave the water's side when holidaying in Mallorca? We don’t blame you. Here’s a lovely little beach walk for those wanting to stretch their legs whilst enjoying beach life on holiday. Ses Salines is located on the south-east coast of Mallorca. This is a summer walk which you can start from Ses Salines itself, or at the beach resort of Colonia de Sant Jordi.
Felanitx is located in the south-east of Mallorca.
Good Friday is often a great opportunity for a spring time walk, especially in Mallorca where there was not a single cloud in the sky and temperatures were in the mid 20s.
Petra is located towards the middle of the island, about 8km west of Manacor. The walk up to the hermitage starts in Petra, following the paved road and involves a walk of a little over an hour, you can also get there by a trail going up from Vilafranca.
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.
Arta is located in the far north-east of Mallorca.
Explore one of the most spectacular caves on the island in a unique corner where very few are lucky enough to know about.
Coasteering combines adventure swimming, abseiling, climbing and rock scrambling to explore some incredible locations in Mallorca.
PADI International certifications are recognised all over the world. This school offers a number of courses for you to learn new skills and progress.
Enjoy great diving in Mallorca with Albatros Diving, based on the east coast in Cala Bona.
An exhilarating rock and water activity suitable for families and adrenaline-junkies, a great way to explore the coastline of Mallorca.
Enjoy an exhilarating day trekking and scrambling through gorges, waterfalls and jumping into giant rock pools.
From such a privileged position, snuggled between two of Mallorca’s most esteemed sandy coves (Cala Mondragó and Cala S’Amarador), this resplendent country home is immersed in the pure, natural setting of the legendary Mondragó National Park, abundant in local fauna and shady pine trees that provide a welcomed respite from the midday sun.
Having undergone a complete renovation for 2025, Riviera offers modern, spacious accommodation on the water’s edge of Cala Longa, one of a series of craggy inlets, affording uninterrupted sea views along the rugged coastline and across the water to the shores of picturesque Calo Ses Dones.
This is a lovely house in a location that, quite simply, offers the best of both worlds - a private swimming pool surrounded by picturesque gardens, yet within walking distance of one of Mallorca's prettiest sandy cove beaches.
Perched along the craggy coastline of Cala Egos, this recently renovated home is light, bright and airy in true Mediterranean style.
Staying in short-term rental accommodation in the town gives you the freedom to enjoy the town at your own pace. Whether in the historic centre or in the surrounding countryside, 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.
Close to the coves and to the beaches with fine white sand in the south-east of the island, you´ll find a country estate with 35 acres of open fields, an exclusive, comfortable, quiet and charming hotel.
Having undergone a complete renovation for 2025, Riviera offers modern, spacious accommodation on the water’s edge of Cala Longa, one of a series of craggy inlets, affording uninterrupted sea views along the rugged coastline and across the water to the shores of picturesque Calo Ses Dones.
Perched along the craggy coastline of Cala Egos, this recently renovated home is light, bright and airy in true Mediterranean style.
This is a lovely house in a location that, quite simply, offers the best of both worlds - a private swimming pool surrounded by picturesque gardens, yet within walking distance of one of Mallorca's prettiest sandy cove beaches.
From such a privileged position, snuggled between two of Mallorca’s most esteemed sandy coves (Cala Mondragó and Cala S’Amarador), this resplendent country home is immersed in the pure, natural setting of the legendary Mondragó National Park, abundant in local fauna and shady pine trees that provide a welcomed respite from the midday sun.
Within the town centre, there are a few good accommodation options available offering retreats from the world within easy reach. You'll enjoy historical buildings with luxury furnishings. Out in the countryside, you'll find rural hotels historic manor houses, set in attractive gardens with outdoor swimming pools. Stone walls, beamed ceilings and an original fireplace, whilst the décor is more traditional, with a home-away-from-home vibe.
You'll find resort-style hotels overlooking Cala Santanyi beach and having been established for many decades, every amenity has been thought through – it offers a wide range of sports facilities, including a gym and tennis courts.
This hotel is situated in the countryside, in a relaxing, calm environment, yet only a few minutes away from the closest beach (Cala Marçal – Porto Colom).
In the south of the island, between fields of almond and fig trees, near the village of Ses Salines and 6 km from the sea, stands the ancient stone house of Sa Carrotja, one of the oldest in the village.
An old Mallorcan stately house (completely restored) mixed with different styles and decorated with all kind of antiquities, photographs, paintings and books, thus preserving much of its original charm while adhering to modern trends.
This rural hotel is eco-friendly, including systems to save water and energy, as well as better waste management.
Located only 5 minutes from the town of Santanyi, this finca hotel is the perfect choice for a relaxing holiday. The whole retreat is devoted to the guests' wellbeing, with lush gardens to walk around, healthy food, yoga lessons and a wellness area.
This traditional finca is located in the heart of the Mallorcan countryside. It boasts a terrace with outdoor swimming pool and sun beds, spa services, and equestrian centre.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca, and it only takes around 45 minutes to get to Santanyi from Palma de Mallorca’s Sant Joan airport. It’s just one road, so an easy drive. Alternatively you can easily book a private transfer to take the hassle out of driving yourself.
There is a direct public bus running from Palma airport to Santanyi that runs a few times per day.
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.
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
This transfer company offers cheap and reliable Airport Transfers to all destinations in Mallorca with official vehicles and professional drivers.
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.
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
Set on an 8,300 m² flat, sun-drenched plot, this fully renovated finca blends authentic Mallorcan charm with modern comfort - complete with two beautifully appointed guesthouses, a saltwater pool, solar power, and breathtaking views of the Tramuntana mountains. Located just outside the historic village of Binissalem, in the heart of Mallorca’s celebrated wine country, this is a rare opportunity to purchase a tranquil rural home that’s move-in ready and built to a high standard.
Located in the tranquil urbanisation of Crestatx in Sa Pobla, this property is perfect for those seeking a natural and well-connected environment. With a functional design, the home is spread over two floors, offering comfortable and practical living spaces for families or friends to enjoy.
Experience the ultimate in comfortable living with this exceptional property located in the desirable urbanization of Crestatx, nestled between Sa Pobla and Pollensa. Boasting a prime location in a residential area with high demand, this fabulous plot features a charming small house that offers plenty of possibilities for extension to meet your future needs.
Large 3-floor townhouse in the historic centre of Alcudia for sale.
In the municipality of Alcúdia, the construction of a villa is underway with a building permit already granted. The project has commenced, with completion anticipated for 2026.
Welcome to this charming estate in the countryside near Pollença Pueblo! This unique property consists of two adjoining estates, offering a perfect combination of tranquillity in the Mallorcan countryside and proximity to all the amenities of Pollença Pueblo, just a five-minute drive away. Additionally, it is only fifteen minutes from the spectacular beaches of Puerto Pollença, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy island life.
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See allLatest News & ReviewsThe island hosts all sorts of events, including agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, live music and DJs in the summer, religious fiestas and international sporting events. Some of the most popular are the Mallorca 312 cycling race in April, the Copa del Rey sailing regatta in July and the Moors vs Christians mock battle in September.
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