Family Adventure in the Serra de Tramuntana

Seeking Serenity in the Serra: A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the spiritual with the historical and the natural. We ventured deeper into the Serra de Tramuntana, exploring sacred sites, ancient watchtowers, and vibrant botanical gardens. It was a day that nourished both our souls and our senses, leaving us with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and history of this remarkable region.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at QuitaPenas Valldemossa. It's a charming, rustic restaurant known for its authentic Mallorcan flavors. I opted for the *Pa amb Oli Tradicional*, a delightful combination of Serrano ham, cheese, sobrasada, fresh tomato, and olive oil on toasted bread. Aisha and Malik were thrilled with the *Tabla de Quesos*, a selection of local Mallorcan cheeses. Klaus enjoyed a *Pa amb Oli Vegetariano*, featuring fresh vegetables, cheese, tomato, and olive oil on toasted bread. The strong coffee fortified us for the day ahead. I must try to recreate this at home in Bonn – it would be a lovely reminder of our trip.

Our first stop was the Santuari de Lluc, Mallorca's most important pilgrimage site. The drive itself was an adventure, winding through hairpin bends with breathtaking views. I could see the terrace formations where Mallorcan farmers have cultivated olive, almond, and citrus trees for centuries. Aisha and Malik kept their eyes peeled for mountain goats, and were eventually rewarded when they spotted some climbing on the slopes.

The sanctuary is nestled in a valley at 525 meters above sea level, surrounded by the Tramuntana mountains. It's a place of tranquility and natural beauty, a perfect spot for reflection. We explored the 17th-century basilica, where the statue of the Black Madonna is venerated. The kids were fascinated by the legend of the young boy Lluc who found the statue in the mountains. We lit candles and took a moment to soak in the spiritual atmosphere.


Experience the spiritual serenity and natural beauty of Santuari de Lluc, a historic sanctuary nestled in the heart of Mallorca's stunning landscapes.

The beauty of a place lies not just in what you see, but in what it makes you feel.

After the basilica, we wandered through the Santuari de Lluc's botanical garden, which showcases over 200 indigenous plants. It was created by the religious community in 1956. The kids enjoyed running around the playgrounds and recreational area. It was a welcome opportunity to stretch our legs after the drive. We also visited the museum, which houses collections of archaeological finds, Mallorcan culture, ceramics, and art. It gave us a deeper understanding of the island's rich heritage.

For lunch, we drove to Sóller, where we had a reservation at Vent de Tramuntana. The restaurant is located in a charming local winery. The setting was idyllic, with a lovely garden terrace where we enjoyed our meal. We started with some delicious tapas, showcasing local ingredients. Klaus and I shared a paella, while the kids opted for grilled fish. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting.

After lunch, we visited the Jardí Botànic de Sóller. This botanical garden is dedicated to the conservation, research, and knowledge of Mediterranean flora, especially Balearic flora. The garden was founded in 1985 and opened to the public in 1992. It’s divided into terraces, each grouping plants according to their ecological needs. We saw wild plants from the Balearic Islands, other Mediterranean islands, and the Canary Islands. There were also collections of medicinal, culinary, and ornamental plants. Aisha was particularly interested in the ethnobotany section, with its collection of medicinal plants. Malik enjoyed the ecological farm, where they grow traditional vegetables and fruit trees.


Explore the serene beauty of the Jardí Botànic de Sóller, a botanical garden in the heart of Port de Sóller, showcasing Mediterranean flora and stunning views.

Our final stop of the day was the Torre del Verger, an ancient watchtower located near Banyalbufar. The tower dates back to the 16th century and was built as a lookout point to protect the island from pirate invasions. The drive to the tower was scenic, passing through lush landscapes and terraced fields. We parked near the Mirador de ses Animes and walked the rest of the way. The path was steep in places, but the views were worth it.


Discover Torre del Verger, a historic watchtower in Banyalbufar, offering breathtaking views and rich maritime history in the stunning Balearic Islands.

From the top of the tower, we had breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged coastline. The kids enjoyed climbing the small staircase inside the tower. I imagined what it must have been like to stand watch here centuries ago, scanning the horizon for approaching ships. It was a perfect spot to reflect on the island's history and natural beauty. The Torre del Verger offered a remarkable journey through Mallorca's storied past.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped at Cafè del Boulevard in Sóller for a refreshing drink. It’s a popular spot with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. Aisha and Malik enjoyed ice cream, while Klaus and I savored a glass of local wine. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Tonight, we are having dinner at El Olivo in Deià. It's located in La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel, inside an old oil mill. Chef Pablo Aranda serves modern cuisine with a Mediterranean base and Arabic influences. I’m particularly looking forward to trying their lamb loin, which is said to be remarkably juicy.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Finca de Galatzó, Mirador de sa Foradada, and Monestir de Miramar. I'm looking forward to more hiking and breathtaking views. We'll also stop at Souvenir Olivo Julve for some local crafts. I'm also hoping to find a portable phone charger; I still miss the one I forgot! And maybe a local SIM card, if I can find one.

As I reflect on today, I feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. The Serra de Tramuntana has a way of captivating the soul, reminding us of the importance of history, nature, and spirituality. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings.

I'm also reminded that the Deià International Music Festival is ongoing. Perhaps we can catch a performance while we're here. And I read that the Travessa Mallorca Serra de Tramuntana, a trail running race, happened earlier this year. Maybe next time we visit, we can participate!

Good night from the Serra de Tramuntana!