Cruising Mallorca through Tramontana, from Valldemossa to Soller

This itinerary leads you through the stunning Tramontana mountains from the town of Valldemossa, which is easily one of Mallorca’s prettiest small towns, to the bohemian towns of Deia and Soller.

Valldemossa

Located 15 miles from Palma and 400 meters above the sea level, Valldemossa is nestled panoramically in the mountains, and a lovely first stop to wander around and breath the fresh mountain air. The biggest highlight here is the Real Cartuja, a Carthusian monastery from the 18th century and the former residence of the composer Frédéric Chopin and his lover, the French writer George Sand, who recorded their experience in the book “A winter in Mallorca”.  You won’t want to leave Valldemossa without trying the town’s famous coca de patata (a traditional sweet potato cake) in one of the touristy but charming street-side cafes.

Beyond Valldemossa the road turns into a dramatic series of twists and turns along the island’s north western coastline. While distances appear short on maps, we recommend you take your time touring this beautiful region of Mallorca. For the uninitiated, it can be a challenging drive, but thanks to breathtaking sea views and picture postcard villages, it is absolutely worth it.

Head north for 4 miles following the Ma-10 and take the exit to the Na Foradada lookout in the Finca de Son Marroig. The views of the small peninsula with its emblematic 18 meters long hole and turquoise waters will take your breath away. There are also many other viewpoints along the way, so make sure you have your camera with you. 

Deia

After 10 minutes, you will reach the dreamy, somewhat bohemian town or Deià, located between the mountains and the sea. Known for drawing in artists for inspiration, it was the home of the English writer Robert Graves, who is buried in the town’s cemetery, which you may want to visit for its panoramic view. We recommend you stretch your legs walking around Deia’s back streets before enjoying a typical Spanish lunch at one of the local restaurants that offers a view. Also, if you have time, you can venture down to the pebble beach of Cala Deià for a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

Soller

At the end of this scenic mountain drive, only 6 miles from Deià, you’ll find Sóller. Here you can enjoy getting lost exploring the narrow stone streets of the Old Town while admiring historic buildings such as the imposing Joan Rubid’s church of Saint Bartholomew (an ex pupil of Gaudi) in the main square of Plaça Constitució. A few miles away is Port de Sóller, a natural seaside shelter turned holiday hub, complete with 5 star luxury hotels and an occasional yacht carrying a helicopter. Along the harbor you’ll find the marina, a sandy beach and plenty of local bars and restaurants where you can celebrate a successful day in paradise. While you’re at it, why not sample a freshly squeezed orange juice or icecream made from the oranges grown nearby.

After leaving the Sóller area, you can choose between driving back to your hotel through the tunnel or continuing your adventure following the local roads through Tramutana to Sa Calobra.

Towns on this route: Valldemosa – Deià – Sóller – Port de Sóller.
Length of this route: 16 miles.
Where to eat: Ca’n Molinas in Valldemosa, Café Sa Font Fresca in Deià and Randemar Restaurant in Port de Sóller
Where to sleep: Ca’s Papà in Valldemossa, Es Molí in Deià and Hotel Es Port in Port de Sóller.

Tips to save money on your holidays in Mallorca

• The best hotels at the best prices in Mallorca.
• Enjoy a € 35 discount on Airbnb when you sign up.
• Travel safe and don’t forget your travel insurance! Here you have a 5% discount with the best travel insurance.
• Take advantage of the best car rental discounts in Mallorca.
• Book the best tours and day trips in Mallorca.

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