Discover Capdepera Mallorca: Your Island Guide for 2025!
Capdepera Mallorca
INTRODUCTION: DISCOVER CAPDEPERA MALLORCA
Located in the northeastern part of Mallorca Spain, Capdepera is a hidden gem waiting to be explored! This picturesque town has a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant local culture. Did you know that Capdepera is home to one of the oldest medieval castles in the region? Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Capdepera has something for you. As someone who has lived in the area for over a decade, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge of this beautiful holiday destination in the Balearic Islands, on the Mediterranean. Let’s dive into this post and discover Capdepera Mallorca and find out why it should be on your travel radar this year!
(To find out more about the Coast of Spain and The Mediterranean, see our related posts: “Best Things To Do In Mallorca” and “Discover Cala Ratjada“)
What Is There To Discover in Capdepera?
Visit Capdepera Castle
Capdepera Castle is a significant historical landmark in Mallorca, offering a glimpse into the island’s past. Constructed in the 14th century by order of King James II, the castle served as a defense against pirate invasions and remained a military stronghold until the 18th century. Its strategic location provides panoramic views of the northeast coast, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Opening Hours and Ticket Information:
Capdepera Castle is open daily, generally from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission fees are typically around €4 for adults, with discounts available for children, students, and senior citizens. It’s advisable to check the official website or local tourist information centers for the most current details.
Key Attractions and Areas to Explore:
- Perimeter Wall and Battlements: Walk around the perimeter walls and enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
- Torre de Canyamel: The main tower offers insights into medieval defense mechanisms and strategic planning.
- Central Courtyard: Explore the various buildings that once housed soldiers and served as storage facilities.
Beaches and Natural Landscapes
There are several excellent beaches on the Mediterranean near Capdepera that are definitely worth visiting when in the area. Here’s an overview of some of the more notable beaches, each offering unique features and attractions:
Cala Agulla:
One of the most popular beaches in the area, Cala Agulla is known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sands. This beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, with lifeguards on duty during peak times, making it a family-friendly choice. There are facilities available, such as sports equipment rentals, sunbed rentals, and beachside cafes. The beach is located in the Llevant Peninsula Natural Park and also lies directly on the edge of town, with grocery stores, restaurants, and hotels available nearby.
Cala Mesquida:
Located a short drive from Capdepera, Cala Mesquida is surrounded by dunes and hills, providing a more secluded and serene atmosphere. It’s a great spot for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world, with plenty of marine life to see. The beach has basic amenities, including restrooms and a snack bar.
Cala Ratjada Beaches (Son Moll and Cala Gat):
The nearby town of Cala Ratjada offers several attractive beaches. Son Moll is the largest and most popular, conveniently located with easy access to the town’s amenities. It has a lively atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy beach games and water sports. Cala Gat, on the other hand, is smaller and more intimate, ideal for those seeking a quieter experience. Both beaches are easily accessible and have facilities such as sunbed rentals and restaurants nearby.
Cala Torta:
For those looking for a more rugged and natural beach experience, Cala Torta is a great choice. This remote beach offers unspoiled beauty with its clear waters and surrounding rocky landscape. It’s less developed, so visitors should bring their own supplies. The beach is accessible by a dirt road, which adds to its off-the-beaten-path charm.
Top Outdoor Adventure and Activities
With the Llevant Peninsula Natural Park and the Mediterranean shores nearby, there are plenty of outdoor activities to do near Capdepera. For some of the activities listed below, check with local tour operators regarding schedules and fees. Note, that for many of the activities, equipment can be rented at local shops or from local tour operators.
- Snorkeling Tours
Explore the underwater world of Cala Agulla. Discover marine life and experience the calm of the sea. - Boat Tours
Join a local boat tour for a scenic ride along the coast. Visit nearby coves and enjoy the view from the sea. - Kayaking Excursions
Paddle along the shoreline, navigate through tranquil waters, and explore hidden spots. - Hiking Trails
The natural park has dozens of trails to suit all levels of hikers and every fitness level. Experience the natural unspoiled landscape and coastal views. - Scuba Diving
Dive into the depths around the coast. The area is known for its excellent visibility and diverse underwater landscapes. - Fishing Trips
Join a fishing trip with local guides. Learn techniques and try your hand at catching local fish. - Cycling Routes
Ride through the surrounding areas of Capdepera. Enjoy the routes that connect local villages or check out the trails in the Llevant park. - Paddleboarding
Try paddleboarding on the gentle waves. Balance and navigate across the surface of the water. - Rock Climbing
Nearby limestone cliffs offer a variety of routes suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. Practice skills and challenge yourself on various routes. - Bird Watching
Observe bird species in their natural habitat in the nearby Llevant Nature Park. - Visit The Caves of Artà
Located near Capdepera, these stunning caves showcase impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Historically, they have been a site of human interest for centuries, with evidence of prehistoric habitation.
Local Cuisine and Dining
Traditional Mallorca Dishes
When in the area, make sure to try the following traditional Mallorcan dishes (Disclaimer: don’t blame me if you fall in love with the Ensaimada pastries):
- Ensaimada: Ensaimada is a circular pastry made from flour, water, sugar, eggs, and lard. It is baked until golden and often dusted with powdered sugar before serving.
- Sobrassada: Sobrassada is a cured sausage made from ground pork, paprika, salt, and spices. It is typically spread on bread or used in various cooked dishes.
- Tumbet: Tumbet is a traditional dish consisting of sliced potatoes, eggplant, and red bell peppers. The vegetables are fried and layered, then topped with a tomato sauce before being baked.
Day Trip Suggestions
Visit Palma: Old Town/Royal Palace/The Cathedral
You can take a day trip to Palma and explore the city’s old town. It features narrow streets and historic buildings such as the Almudaina Palace (the official royal residence on Mallorca of the Spanish royal family), the Cathedral (right near the palace), and the Arab Baths. There are tons of cafes, shops, and markets to visit making it a great relaxing outing.
Visit Arta
Located just a few kilometers away, Arta is definitely worth a visit. The Sanctuary on top of the hill provides an excellent view over the town and surrounding hills. This old town is mainly untouched by tourism and offers an authentic Mallorcan experience.
Discover Capdepera! Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips
Peak Tourist Season
The peak tourist season on the island is during July and August when most regions of Northern Europe have their school breaks. With everybody heading to the Mediterranean coast at the same time, it does get busy so be prepared, plan ahead, and book accommodations, rental cars, plane tickets, and tours well in advance.
Tip: If you are looking for a less hectic experience, you might want to consider traveling in May/June or in Sept/October. The weather is still exceptionally nice and you can escape the large crowds.
Transportation options
- Flying: Capdepera is about 65km northeast of Palma Airport which serves both domestic and International flights.
- Transport on Mallorca: Taxis can be found all over the island, car rentals are also available and there is also the public transport company TIP (or Transports de les Iles Balears), which operates a network of bus routes that services major towns, cities and popular tourist destinations across the island.
Accommodations
The tourist infrastructure in the area is well developed so there is no shortage of accommodations in the area. These range from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly youth hostels and guesthouses. There is also a bus system that services the island and car rental services as well. However, as mentioned above, summer is the busiest time in the area so I recommend that you book well in advance. Your best bet is to check online for available places and book as soon as you can. Check out the link further below for places available right now.
FINAL THOUGHTS: DISCOVER CAPDEPERA MALLORCA
From its rich history and vibrant culture to its stunning natural beauty, Capdepera has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended vacation, make sure Capdepera is on your list. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this town’s unique offerings. Don’t wait, Capdepera is calling!
“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”
How about experiencing the Mediterranean first hand? Use the map below to inspire you and plan your next Mediterranean vacation right now!
Reg Auge
Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.
