Experience Deia, Mallorca
Deia, a little coastal village on the northwest coast of Mallorca, is blessed with rustic charm. It’s a gem of Spanish architecture nestled among olive groves, nestled between the teal sea and the Tramuntana mountains. But don’t just take my word for it – take a virtual journey and explore its charm.
An Artists’ Sanctuary
Deia saw its rise as an artists’ sanctuary in the 20th century. The rustic beauty, quiet tranquility, and stunning landscapes made it a magnet for artists, poets, and musicians from around the world.
- English poet and novelist Robert Graves was one such artist who made Deia his home and his resting place.
- Virgil Thomson, American composer, and critic also took refuge in the untouched beauty of Deia.
- Today this artistic legacy continues with numerous art galleries and music festivals hosted throughout the year.
The Highlight: Cala Deia
The highlight of Deia has to be Cala Deia, a small shingle beach with clear, azure waters. The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, adding a touch of rugged beauty to the serene landscape. The journey to this hidden slice of paradise provides remarkable views that stick imprint in your memory. Plus, Cala Deia houses seafood restaurants that offer delectable choices to sate your gastronomic desires.
Sa Foradada: An Offbeat Getaway
Around 5 km from Deia, Sa Foradada, an offbeat destination, offers visitors a distinct attraction. The name Sa Foradada implies ‘pierced rock’ in Catalan, and it is named for a hole in a coastal rock formation. Whether you reach it via boat or hike, the views and the sunset from Sa Foradada are especially worth the journey.
Food with a View
Visiting Deia won’t be complete without savoring the local cuisine. Deia offers stylish, high-quality restaurants often coupled with enchanting sea or mountain views.
- Es Raco d’es Teix is a top recommendation for gourmet lovers, offering the best of Mallorcan cuisine accompanied by sweeping views of Deia’s rooftops down to the sea.
- Monseta Deia or Sa Fonda after, have casual settings perfect for soaking up the atmosphere over tapas and local wines.
Church of Saint John the Baptist
The village’s high point is the Church of Saint John the Baptist. This historical structure built in the 15th century, sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the Tramuntana mountains and the sea. If you’re lucky, you might even get to attend a local concert in its beautifully preserved architecture.
The Residence of Robert Graves
The home of Robert Graves, a famous British author, is now a museum. The residence preserves the simplicity and modesty of the time and gives insight into the author’s life and times. It also offers views of the lovely Mediterranean garden to enrich your visit.
Cultural Festivities
Deia is undeniably colorful and vibrant, pulsating with music festivals and cultural events year-round. The Deia International Music Festival and Artdemossa Fair held each summer are cultural offerings that shouldn’t be missed. Visitors can lose themselves in the soothing tunes of classical music at the former while appreciating traditional arts and crafts at the latter.
Deia, Mallorca, is a haven that delivers a unique blend of beauty, tranquility, and artistic delight. It’s not written in guidebooks, but it is etched in the souls of those who’ve been. The charm of this unconventional village eludes definitions and typical touristic labels, and that is its brilliance. To truly experience Deia, you’ve got to let it seep into your senses, not just your itinerary. So, allow yourself to be lost and then found in Deia, for it’s not just a destination, it’s a journey.
