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Necrópolis de Son Real

Necrópolis de Son Real: Discover Mallorca’s antique secrets

The Necròpolis of Son Real on Mallorca is an important archaeological complex in the north of the island that dates back to the 7th to 4th centuries BC and offers insights into the burial rituals of the Talayotic culture.

The Necròpolis of Son Real covers an area of around 8000 square meters and comprises 143 discovered graves, which are laid out in the form of small stone mounds and chambers and contain the bones of at least 425 people.

The graves date from different eras. The oldest structures date back to the 7th century BC. These graves were used by the indigenous people of Mallorca to bury their dead and provide them with a dignified resting place.

The Talayotic culture is known for its so-called Talayots, megalithic buildings that served as watchtowers or residential structures. The Necrópolis de Son Real, on the other hand, shows another facet of this culture: its burial practices and religious beliefs. The tombs are laid out in various forms – from simple cairns to complex burial chambers – which could indicate different social classes or time periods.

One of the most remarkable features of the Necrópolis de Son Real is its location directly by the sea. This was probably no coincidence, as in many ancient cultures the sea was seen as a passage to the underworld. The proximity to the water could therefore have had symbolic significance.

For those who want to take a deeper look into the secrets of this site, it is worth booking a guided tour. Local archaeologists occasionally offer tours where they not only explain the history but also share current research findings.

Another tip: visit the necropolis early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light gently streams across the landscape and creates an almost mystical atmosphere.

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Tren de Sóller

Tren de Sóller: A historic train ride through Mallorca’s beautiful landscape

Have you ever sat in a rolling piece of history while the world outside passes by?

If not, then it’s time for an adventure on the “Red Lightning” – the Tren de Sóller, which has been winning the hearts of its passengers for over a century.

Imagine this: You board a train whose carriages whisper stories from days long gone. The “Red Lightning”, affectionately named after its former color scheme, is more than just a means of transport; it is a time machine on rails that takes you gently through the Tramuntana mountains.

Since 1912, the historic railroad has connected Palma de Mallorca with the idyllic town of Sóller, revealing landscapes that are as diverse as the island itself. Orange groves, olive groves and majestic mountains play hide-and-seek with the azure blue sky.

But it’s not just about the view. The “Red Lightning” is also a masterpiece of engineering. It winds its way through tunnels, over bridges and along cliffs – a route that was as breathtaking then as it is now. It is said that each of the 13 tunnels has its own story to tell – if you just listen carefully.

On board this train, every minute is a pleasure. The wooden benches may be a little hard, but they bear witness to a time without the hustle and bustle. Here, clocks tick more slowly; it’s the here and now that counts.

Arriving in Sóller – a place that seems to have come straight out of a Spanish storybook. With its winding alleyways and lively market square, you immediately feel welcome. After a short coffee break, you can even continue your journey: A historic streetcar will take you directly to the port of Sóller.

The “Red Lightning” is not just a train ride; it is a tribute to travel itself – slow, deliberate and full of wonder. It is an invitation to all the senses to open up and soak up pure life.

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Sant Salvador Monastery Hill

Sant Salvador monastery mountain: the perfect mix of spiritual tranquillity and spectacular views

High above the idyllic village of Felanitx rises the monastery mountain of Sant Salvador, a place that not only impresses with its height, but also promises its visitors an experience in a class of its own. The curving journey may set the pulse racing, but what awaits guests at the top is compensation for any tension.

At the top, 509 meters above sea level, a panorama unfolds that will leave even the most eloquent poet struggling for words. The historic sanctuary of Santuari de Sant Salvador, whose beginnings date back to the 14th century, stands as a silent witness to a bygone era.

Here, travelers found shelter from storms and pilgrims found a place for their prayer. The aura of the monastery is permeated by a silence that invites you to linger and reflect – a true contrast to the hectic pace of modern life.

But it’s not just the spirituality that makes Sant Salvador so special. The viewing platform offers a 360-degree view of the island – from the rolling hills of the island’s interior to the glittering blue of the Mediterranean. On sunny days, you can even see the neighboring islands of Cabrera and Menorca in the distance.

For sports enthusiasts, the climb to the top is a popular challenge – whether by bike or on foot. The path to the top may require a calorie sacrifice or two, but the breathtaking view is a feast for the soul.

In conclusion, the Sant Salvador monastery mountain is a place where you can find both inner peace and outer beauty, giving every visitor unforgettable impressions.

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Kathedrale La Seu

The Cathedral of Palma: Gothic splendour and living history

Join us on a journey through the halls of time in Palma Cathedral – Gothic splendor and living history create an unforgettable symphony. Discover an architectural masterpiece that reflects the soul of Mallorca and Saint Mary.

When the morning sun rises over the Bay of Palma, a spectacle of breathtaking proportions unfolds: Palma Cathedral, also known locally as “La Seu”, shines in golden light as if blessing the new day. This architectural marvel, which was founded in the 13th century and built over several centuries, is not only a testament to medieval architecture, but also a reflection of the cultural fusion of Mallorca.

Its appearance is characterised by Levantine Gothic architecture – a style that found its perfect expression here on the island. With a façade as majestic as the Tramuntana cliffs and an interior as vast as the Mediterranean itself, La Seu invites every visitor to stop and marvel.

But behind its impressive silhouette lies more than just stone grandeur. The cathedral stands on the foundations of a former mosque – a silent echo of Mallorca’s Moorish past. Its transformation after the Reconquista symbolizes a turning point in the island’s history and marks the beginning of a new era.

The interior reveals both the heart and the special feature of La Seu: the rose window. With a diameter of more than 12 meters and thousands of processed

Mosaic stones make it the largest Gothic round window in the world and transform sunlight into a kaleidoscope of colours. It is therefore not surprising that Palma Cathedral is also known as the “Cathedral of Light”.

The optical wonder, also known as the “Game of Eight”, can be admired twice a year. On February 2nd and November 11th, the first rays of sunlight of the morning at 8 a.m. catch the large rose window on the east side and paint its perfect silhouette on the wall below the western facade rosette – a heavenly figure eight is created. This phenomenon, which some believe to be a deliberate masterpiece of medieval architects, attracts visitors from all over the world every year who want to experience this magical interplay of light and architecture.

But these days are not the only ones that promise a spectacle: around the winter solstice, another light phenomenon is revealed when the sun shines through both large rosettes and creates a lively kaleidoscope. Thus, La Seu becomes the scene of a cosmic interplay in which the light dances through the more than 60 filigree stained glass windows.

But it is not only this that makes the Cathedral of Palma a place of incomparable fascination. In the early 20th century, Antoni Gaudí gave new impetus to the interior. His redesign of the choir brought a touch of modernism to the ancient walls, creating a dialogue between tradition and innovation.

The chapels around the main nave are works of art from another time – dedicated to various saints and equipped with artistic altars. Particularly noteworthy is the Chapel of Saint Sebastian, which is characterized by its silver altar.

Enter this monument full of inspiration and human creativity. Let yourself be enchanted by the Cathedral of Palma and experience for yourself why it is considered the soul of Mallorca.

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Cuevas del Drach

Cuevas del Drach: Mystical beauty underground

If you thought Mallorca revealed all its treasures under the shining sun, then let the Cuevas del Drach prove you wrong. Immerse yourself in the heart of the Dragon Caves – a world full of mysterious aura and mystical beauty awaits your discovery.

The fascinating labyrinth of four mighty caves on the east coast of Mallorca stretches over a distance of 1,200 metres and hides its secrets up to 25 metres below the earth’s surface. These natural wonders were formed by the power of water over thousands of years and were only opened to the public in the early 20th century. Enter these cathedral-like halls and feel the history in every drop that falls from the stalactites.

The Dragon Caves are closely intertwined with a legend that reaches into the depths of Mallorcan mythology. It is said that a mighty dragon once guarded these labyrinth-like caves and blocked the entrance to an immeasurable treasure. The caves were first documented in the 14th century, but it was not until 1880 that their true exploration began by the French geologist Édouard-Alfred Martel. His discoveries revealed not only geological wonders but also traces of prehistoric human settlement. Today the caves are free of fire-breathing inhabitants, but the legend lives on and gives every visit a touch of adventure and mysticism.

Your path takes you along impressive formations as well as colors and shapes that are a feast for the senses. A glittering wall here, a floating stalagmite column there – it is as if Mother Nature had created her own art gallery here.

The absolute highlight of the tour, however, is Lago Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world. In this magical setting you will experience a concert of a special kind: classical musicians in boats glide over the mirror-smooth water and fill the cave with melodies that become a symphony in this natural amphitheater.

But there is more to it than just music. The lighting of the lake and the surrounding rock formations is staged in such a way that it gives the feeling of being part of a living painting.

The Cuevas del Drach are an experience that touches all the senses and captivates visitors of all ages.

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Cap Formentor

Cap Formentor: Experience the natural beauty

Imagine a place where nature speaks to you in its most pristine form – welcome to Cap Formentor, the spectacular headland and at the same time the northernmost point of Mallorca.

Cap Formentor is not just a feast for the eyes; it is a place that tells stories. The peninsula was named after the lighthouse, which has steadfastly watched over the sea and shown the way to ships since 1863. This historic structure is reached via a road that is considered a masterpiece of engineering – winding and narrow, winding along the coast and through fascinating mountain formations, offering views so breathtaking that they seem almost unreal.

The journey to Cap Formentor is an ode to beauty: wild olive trees and pine trees line the path, while herds of goats graze on steep slopes. Every curve reveals a new panorama – sometimes the sea shows its gentle side with small bays and beaches, sometimes its wild side with rugged rocks and crashing waves.

On your journey, be sure to stop at Mirador del la Nao, a viewpoint that will take your breath away. Here, multi-story terraces unfold, which are connected to each other via stairs and always offer you new, fascinating views of the rugged coastal landscape. Listen to the tireless sound of the sea from over 200 meters deep. For the more adventurous, a narrow road leads to the old watchtower Talaia d’Albercutx, from where you will be rewarded with even more spectacular panoramic views – but be warned, this route requires driving skills!

What we don’t want to withhold from you is a visit to the Talaia d’Albercutx watchtower at dusk. At sunrise and sunset, the splendor of nature unfolds in a breathtaking spectacle that you can enjoy in absolute peace at this time.

When you reach your destination, the Far de Formentor lighthouse awaits you – a symbol of hope and orientation. From here you can let your gaze wander over the endless sea and, if you have the right vision, discover Mallorca’s little sister – Menorca with its untouched nature.

But Cap Formentor has more to offer than just its famous peak. Hidden coves like Cala Figuera invite you to explore on the way to the lighthouse and offer opportunities for a refreshing swim in crystal clear water. And if you’re lucky, you might meet one of the shy mongooses or a turtle on your way.

As the sun slowly sinks behind the mountains and bathes the sky in a spectrum of orange and red tones, you will understand why this place is often described as magical. It is this combination of natural beauty, tranquility and the feeling of freedom that makes Cap Formentor an unforgettable experience.

This incomparable place has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011 and therefore attracts many visitors, especially in summer. Therefore, from June 1st to September 30th, access by private vehicles is restricted in order to protect nature and avoid overcrowding. But don’t worry: with a practical shuttle service you can easily reach one of Mallorca’s most famous locations even in these months.

So let yourself be seduced by this special place in Mallorca – whether as part of a hike through the Tramuntana mountains or while driving along its legendary roads.