A Guide To Exploring Mallorca's Northwest Coast Off The Beaten Track

The Northwest coast of Mallorca arguably offers the most spectacular countryside, picturesque villages and crystal-clear waters on the whole island. So why not stray from the beaten track and tackle the winding hairpin bends and dramatic mountain scenery of this less-travelled corner of the isle? We’ve come up with our pick what to see and do when you get there.

1. Become a yogi in the mountains

Discover your inner karma at a relaxing yoga and detox retreat nestled in the Tramuntana Mountains. Located near the pretty village of Estellencs, Ashram Om is set 13th-century farmhouse surrounded by orange and olive groves is a particularly beautiful spot to make base. The three-, four- or seven-day courses also offer extra-curricular activities such as hiking trips and paddle surfing for those wanting to further explore the area.

Ashram Om, Carreterra Estellencs-Palma Estellencs, +34 635 50 01 11

Estellencs village | © Christoph Strässler/Flickr

2. Dine at Son Tomas in Bunyalbufar

With glorious views of the sun setting over the ocean, and the fertile green terraces that line the opposite horizon, the setting of this small restaurant in the charming town of Banyalbufar is hard to beat. The traditional food is delicious, especially the broad beans in a delicate tomato sauce, and definitely sample the hearty lobster paella if you have room. Complete the evening with a post-dinner walk through the vast and pretty oak forests that surround the town.

Calle de la Baronia 17, Banyalbufar, +34 971 61 81 49

Views from Banyalbufar | © Anna & Michal/Flickr

3. Listen to the Blauets choir at Lluc Monastery

Monastery

The origin of this blue-cassocked choir dates back to the 16th century, originally with just six boys. Currently, the 40-strong choir perform the salve every morning and evening at this sacred site, and of course also on Sundays and at special masses. The Blauets’ concerts during Easter week are a sensational experience, and at Christmas one of the children sings the eerie Medieval apocalyptic prophecy “Cant de la Sibilla” to an enchanted congregation.

5. Take a hot air balloon ride over Serra de Tramuntana

Hotel

Located on the edge of the picturesque village of Deia is the achingly upscale Blemond Residencia Hotel. From here you can hop aboard their hot air balloon and experience a dramatic view of Mallorca’s verdant landscape. Thrillseekers are whisked away for an hour or so and fed a little apéritif to keep the tummy knots at bay. They also offer less lofty experiences such as donkey riding and ceramic workshops.

Hotel Belmond La Residencia, Son Canals, Deia, +34 971 63 90 11

6. Get back to nature at La Reserva

Considered by many to be one of the most picturesque places in the Tramuntana Sierra, La Reserva is an captivating private nature reserve and wildlife refuge nestled up in the mountain of Puig de Galatzó. Hike for miles though Mediterranean forests of evergreen oaks and cool of with a refreshing dip in one of many waterfalls (15 in all) along the trail. Adrenalin junkies can zipwire through the canopy, while rock climbers have plenty of craggy peaks to scale. Afterwards, enjoy traditional foods or a feast of your own making on one of the barbecues provided and relax to the chirruping of dozens of native birds.

Predio Son Net, Puigpunyent, Sierra de Tramuntana, +34 971 61 66 22

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