Towns & Villages in Santanyi — 2 of Our Favourites

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.

More than anywhere else in Mallorca, Cala Figuera retains the authentic atmosphere of a traditional fishing port. White-painted houses and boat garages (locally known as escars) line the water’s edge, their doors opening directly onto the calm turquoise waters of the fjord-like harbour. Fishermen still sit in the early morning light, repairing nets and preparing boats, while gulls wheel overhead. If you arrive early enough, you might witness the day's catch being landed, tuna, hake, or squid - before it makes its way to the local restaurants.

The village spreads along the twin arms of a Y-shaped inlet, creating an idyllic setting that feels more like a serene lake than the open sea. A well-maintained footpath runs along the harbour and continues up onto the low cliffs, offering panoramic views back over the bay and out to the Mediterranean.

The town's laid-back vibe is complemented by a selection of charming seafood restaurants and cafés, many with terraces overlooking the water. As the sun sets and fishing boats return, it's the perfect place to enjoy grilled octopus, lobster stew, or simply a glass of local wine with a sea breeze.