If you’re considering an autumnal getaway or a spring fling to Mallorca, but wondering if it’s a good out-of season option, let me put your mind at rest. Having just returned from the island, where we stayed close to the charming historic village of Deià, the answer is ‘Yes’! Mallorca is undeniably a perfect holiday base for those who enjoy long walks, swimming, cycling, history, art and excellent local cuisine. Late September right through to October and November is a particularly lovely time of year to visit Mallorca on holiday, as are late April and the month of May, withvisitors to the island finding fewer crowds during these periods. With average temperatures in the mid 20’s and with shops, restaurants and museums open, there is certainly plenty to do and excellent weather to soak up. Moreover, if you are travelling with children there are plenty of quiet, sandy beaches on the island that are perfect for day trips.
During our recent stay, we did some wonderful walks to Cala Deià, where you can swim and enjoy a delicious lunch at the restaurant Ca’Patro March, a well-known filming location of TV thriller The Night Manager (based on the book by John Le Carré). There is also a beautiful coastline walk from Cala Deia to Lluc Alcari that takes around 30 minutes. For a longer and more memorable coastal walk we recommend Sa Foradada with its clear water, amazing rock formations and a hillside restaurant where you can have lunch while admiring magnificent views. We did these walks independently, but they can also be arranged by local tour companies.
Visiting the beautiful historic town of Valldemossa, a 15-minute drive south of Deià, is a must. As is a visit to the larger town of Soller, 22 minutes’ drive to the north. Here, there is a regular original tram service running to and from the coast at Port de Soller, as well as from Soller to Palma.In 2011, UNESCO World Heritage Site status was awarded to Mallorca’s magnificent mountain range, Serra de Tramuntana, which stretches from Andratx in the southwest to the Cap de Formentor in the far north of the island, a paradise for keen walkers. Just a 40-minute drive from Cap de Formentor is the historic walled town of Alcudia, which is worth a visit too, and again particularly beautiful at this time of year without the summer crowds. Visitors can walk around the old town walls, or through the cobbled streets with their boutiques and restaurants. We enjoyed a delicious tapas lunch at Sa Portassa.
Just 11 kms south of Valldemossa, in the Tramuntana Mountains, we loved walking around the Estate La Granja de Esporles which offers a wonderful historic experience, very much like visiting an authentic museum. Originally dating back to 1447, most of what we see today is the 17th century mansion which has retained the atmosphere of the era, set in a park-like location with beautiful trees, gardens and natural springs. Walking through the old rooms of the property is like a unique history lesson taking you back in time and showcasing the traditional crafts and wine production which once took place here. It is a lovely outing for young children as well, with plenty of space inside and out, and a chance to meet some friendly rabbits and donkeys. La Granja also caters for weddings as well as other special events.
Staying close to Deià, at a time of year when there are fewer visitors, we benefitted from a choice of excellent bars and restaurants, which tend to get very booked up over the summer. Our favourites include the lovely Restaurant Sebastian, where you can enjoy a delicious al fresco meal under the stars. Others which are worth visiting include: Villa Rullen, a beautifully restored traditional house with an attached mini-spa and a boutique inside. Xelini is worth visiting for its delicious tapas and salads. Dinner at Sa Vinya is also a good choice and offers outdoor dining. For a very special occasion, we recommend taking the short drive to Sa Pedrissa, 2.5kms north of Deià, for a wonderful dinner and sensational views.
Recommended villas to rent in and around DeiàDeia Stone Villa(4 bedrooms, 8–10 guests)A beautiful, spacious traditional villa in the heart of Deià which has been beautifully refurbished, Deia Stone Villa is in a perfect central location, just a stone’s throw from the village’s shops and restaurants and a 25-minute walk down to the beach. There is also a stunning roof terrace with a view of the surrounding mountains.
Residencia Garden View (4 bedrooms, 8 guests)The villa sits in a wonderful sought-after location, just a short walk from the town centre. It also benefits from views over the sea and the gardens of the La Residencia hotel. Offering chic interiors, a swimming pool and terrace, this property has a wonderfully laid-back feel.
Deia Village (4 bedrooms, 8 guests)Overlooking beautiful Deià village, this picturesque villa has a backdrop of the Tramuntana Mountains on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. Guests can enjoy dinner or a glass of wine on the terrace as the sun sets behind the church and illuminates the surrounding mountains.
Villa Balanguera (3 bedrooms, 6 guests)In an idyllic location overlooking the sea, Villa Balanguera is just a 10-minute walk from Deià village. Cala Deià, a beautiful beach, is only an 8-minute drive, or 25-minute walk away. The property has high ceilings, wooden beams and terracotta floors, and is furnished to a high standard throughout.
Villa Alconasser Hideaway (3 bedrooms, 6 guests)Located just a 10-minute drive from Deià village, Villa Alconasser Hideaway benefits from wonderful sea and mountain views. It is also just a 10-minute walk from the nearest beach. Complete with modern appliances and heating for those cooler evenings, this villa is perfect for a small family.