These two villages are known as two of the prettiest, most well preserved traditional villages on the Island. Fornalutx can be reached on foot from Soller the footpath is very well signposted. It is a pleasant and scenic way to enter the village with its steep winding streets and picturesque houses.
Biniaraix is just a few kilometres from Soller and is the start of a good trek through Barranc {ravine} de Biniaraix up into the hills. This walk follows an ancient well-preserved stone path, with charming scenery along the way and fantastic views from higher up.

Not too far away from Soller, and worth the drive is the 18th century Monastry at Lluc, famous for its dark Madonna statue, which is said to fulfil one’s wishes. This is and has been for centuries a place of pilgrimage, although today’s pilgrims tend to be more of the tourist type. It is also for hikers a popular hiking destination or stop over, as it is possible to stay overnight in one of the monks cells. Every year, on the 1st August, scores of people walk to Lluc in a huge communal hiking event; some people even walk all the way from Palma!

The ex Carthusian Monastry has hosted many writers, artists and musicians, most notably during the winter of 1838-39, when both the composer Chopin and writer George Sand were in residence. Chopin composed and George Sand wrote “A Winter in Mallorca”, which turned out to be a rather unflattering representation of it’s residents!
The Municipal Museum of Valldemossa is interestingly full of personal artefacts, many items, such as letters, paintings etc. belonging to the famous and infamous who stayed here.

There are day trips from Soller to the scenic bay of Sa Callobra, at the head of the magnificent canyon formed by the torrent de Parreis. A great day out if Sa Callobra is not included in your cruising itinerary.

This recently opened museum is situated in a restored private town house (Can Prunera) built in the early days of the 1900. The house is in itself worth a visit, with its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and superbly detailed interior finish. A substantial portfolio of works by Sollerophile artists, including (of course) Miro and Picasso puts this museum at the centre of any cultural visit to Soller.

Tel: {0034} 971 638 973

Calle de La lluna 80
07100, Soller
Mallorca

Set high up in the Tramuntana Mountains above the steep coastline is the hill village of Deia, well worth a visit just for the scenic drive into the mountains. The beauty and seclusion of the village has long attracted many artists, writers and musicians, one of the most well known being Robert Graves who lived in Deia for many years and is buried there. It is now one of the chicest places on the island.

A stroll around the gardens will let you discover the wide array of Mallorquin flora. This is not only a display for visitors; the organisation is also a conservation and research centre. The Gardens are closely linked to The Balearic Museum of Natural Science.

Tel: {0034} 971 634 014

www.jardibotanicdesoller.org

Just over the tunnel on the way to Palma, this large country house and gardens are open to the public in season. The complex pre-dates the Spanish conquest of Mallorca, but the house itself has been rebuilt over the centuries and has lost much of its Moorish appearance. Nevertheless it makes a pleasant stopover on the way to or from Plama.

Tel: {0034} 971 613 123

www.jardinesdealfabia.com

Carretera de Palma a Soller km. 17
07110, Bunyola
Mallorca

A very romantic and relaxing hotel with extremely friendly and accommodating staff.

Perched on top of the hill in Valldemossa, this has to be one of the most perfectly located hotels on the island with panoramic views over the surrounding mountains and valley. The hotel is part of the Relais & Chateaux Group, that specializes in renovating and restoring mansions and chateaux, and offers a personalized service, striving to treat customers as private guests rather than clients.

Fitness centre and spa at the Estrella de Mar Hotel, situated very close to the marina and open throughout the year. There is a swimming pool and thermal spa area, as well as hydrotherapy pools; massages, body wraps, peels and many more treatments are available.