A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, Sebastian Schoellgen and Kate Lough share their favorite spots to eat, stay and play this summer along its northwestern coastline that takes in hotspots Soller and Deia.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Corazon, Sóller
A hotel for artists, by artists, Hotel Corazon opens this summer between Sóller and Deia. The brainchild of photographer Kate Bellm and her partner, the multidisciplinary artist Edgar Lopez, it is part luxury lodgings, part farm, part restaurant, and part art space. Ask to stay in Baba Royale.
- Sa Pedrissa, Deia
Family-owned for centuries, Sa Pedrissa feels like a traditional Mallorcan country house rather than a hotel. A 30-minute walk from Deia, its pool is its standout feature with sensational views down to the sea from its lofty height. Book one of the Junior Suites in the garden, with their contemporary interiors and private terraces with beautiful sea and mountain views.
- Meem Townhouse, Sóller
An adults-only townhouse hotel, Meem is a stylish refuge in the center of Sóller. Charmingly restored from a 19th-century traditional Mallorcan house, its seven suites sit around a peaceful courtyard — the perfect place to relax after a day’s exertions.
- Ca’s Xorc, Sóller
Perches between mountain and sea on the way from Sollér to Deia. A charming agriturismo, it was converted from an old oil mill set among lemon and olive groves. The restaurant, which is powered by its own herb and vegetable garden, is a highlight.
- Son Net, Puigpunyent
This year, Son Net reopens as a brand new hotel, nestled within a vast 17thc century estate on a hill above Puigpunyent, just 20 minutes from Palma. From the team behind Andalusia’s Finca Cortesin, this transformed Mallorcan manor house now has 31 suites, alongside magnificent views and bucolic Mediterranean gardens with orange and lemon trees, and a vineyard producing Malvasia white.
Where to Eat & Drink
For Lunch by the Sea
- Es Vergeret, East of Sóller
A gorgeous three-hour hike (or quick boat) from Port de Soller is Es Vergeret, which has a sweeping terrace with the prettiest view over Cala Tuent. Go for grilled fish or its famed seafood paella.
- Patiki Beach, Port de Sóller
On Repic Beach, in the left corner of Port de Sóller’s horseshoe bay is the family-run Patiki Beach, a chiringuito-style restaurant where you can stay eating and drinking all day with your toes in the sand. Expect the menu to revolve around whatever is fresh from the fisherman’s catch and neighboring growers.
- Sa Foradada, Deia
Everybody loves Ca’s Petro March on Cala Deia, but we prefer Sa Foradada nearby. You can either reach this spot by boat or by taking a beautiful 45-minute hike down from the car park — either way, swim in the glorious glassy waters in the cove before lunch. Here, it is all about the paella and Mallorcan white wines.
- Bens d’Avall, Sóller
On the coastal road between Sóller and Deia half way between Deia and Sóller, you will find Bens d’Avall and its spectacular terrace overlooking the Balearic Sea. At lunchtime, the views are just magical.
For Drinks
- Sa Fonda, Deia
A legendary spot in Deia which has long been a gathering place for artists and bohemians, Sa Fonda is a must for drinks once the sun goes down. Right in the middle of the village, climb its stone steps and settle in for pre-dinner drinks on the terrace, most likely accompanied by live music.
- Belmond La Residencia, Deia
Part of the fabric of Deia's life, Belmond La Residencia has the best position in the village. Go for cocktails on its fabulous terrace — and maybe even stay for dinner, El Olivo, its courtyard restaurant is impossibly romantic.
For Tapas in Town
- Es Taller, Valdemossa
In lovely Valldemossa, Argentinian chef Nicolás Gago Aubert has set up shop in an old mechanical garage. Make your way through the tapas part of the menu, its dishes like Majorcan lamb tacos and squid with artichoke and saffron cream make for the perfect lingering lunch. It has a great sunset terrace, too.
- Ca’n Pintxo, Sóller
Super authentic pintxos spot right in the heart of beautiful Sóller. Sit at the bar and order the tasting menu.
- Ca’n’Costa, Valldemossa
It’s Michael Douglas’ favourite restaurant on the island and we’re pretty partial to this spot too. Food is traditionally Mallorcan and simple, but excellent. Order the arroz marinera — a seafood rice soup with lobster.
For Dinner
- Nama, Deia
Nama is a beautifully designed South East Asian restaurant with one of Deia’s loveliest terraces overlooking the Tramuntana mountains. Order the seafood noodles and crispy duck salad.
- Sebastian, Deia
Whether you sit in the romantic restaurant with its flickering candlelight or on the pretty terrace, Sebastian is a timeless delight. Run by the chef Sebastian and his wife Patricia, it focuses on seasonal dishes, using ingredients fresh from the market and local wines.
What to Do
Visit the Sunday Market in Valldemossa
Every Sunday (from 9 am to 3 pm) this gorgeous hilltop town comes alive with a market selling everything from fruit and veg to products made by Mallorcan artisans. Make time to walk around Valldemossa, whose winding streets lead to the Carthusian Monastery.
Go Hiking
Serra de Tramuntana is a paradise for hikers, and Sóller and Deia are the starting point for countless hikes including the Barranc de Biniaraix (Biniaraix Ravine) and the Route of Pedra en Sec. We also love the hike down from Deia to Cala Deia for a swim, and the route from Deia to Valldemossa — it takes five hours but it’s a stunning hike through pine forests and olive terraces, with plunging views down to the sea.
Sail Along the Coast
Get a different perspective of the Tramuntana Mountains from the sea and discover all its beautiful secret coves along the way. Charter a sailing boat with a skipper at sunset and marvel as the landscapes start to glow pink.
When to Go
Mallorca, and especially this north-western slice of it, gets very busy and hot in peak summer months. Visit in May, June, September, or October for fewer crowds and lovely temperatures.
84 Rooms recommends: The Best Spanish Getaways, and Where To Go In June.