CELEBRITY HIDEAWAY – DEIA MALLORCA: MOUNTAINS, SEA & STARS!
CELEBRITY HIDEAWAY – DEIA MALLORCA SPAIN: SEE THE STARS!

INTRODUCTION: CELEBRITY HIDEAWAY – DEIA MALLORCA SPAIN!
Welcome to Deia Mallorca Spain: a hidden gem nestled in the Tramuntana mountains! Known for its breathtaking landscapes, artistic heritage, and tranquil charm, Deia offers an idyllic escape. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply a wealthy movie star seeking a peaceful retreat, Deia has something special for everyone. Did you know that this quaint village has attracted numerous celebrities over the years? Join us and find out what is the attraction about this town and discover why it should be on your travel radar.
As someone who has lived on the Mediterranean for over a decade, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge of this highly sought-after holiday destination on the Balearic Islands in Spain.

(To find out more about this region see our related posts “Best Things To Do In Mallorca” and “Discover Port de Soller” )

WHAT IS THERE TO DISCOVER IN DEIA MALLORCA?
Discover the History of Artists and Writers Drawn to Deia.
This area is beautiful and has long attracted artists and writers due its peace, tranquility, and inspiring scenery. In the early 20th century, it became a haven for creative people such as the famous English poet Robert Graves who settled here. With his presence in the area, Deia soon became a magnet for other artists who soon followed. Due to its remote yet beautiful location, it was seen as the perfect place to escape to and focus on their work, taking inspiration from the surroundings and local culture. This tradition continues to this day, with Deia being established as a center of artistic and literary exploration.

Visit the Famous Robert Graves House and Museum.
After his death, Robert Graves’s home became a museum, preserving the legacy of this influential poet. It celebrates his life with personal artifacts and gives some insight into his writing method. The museum provides a place for those seeking to connect in some way to this icon of English literature.

Visit Local Art Galleries and Shops
In keeping with the artistic importance of this area, local art galleries provide a venue to highlight work from local artists. In this way, the galleries support the work of local artists while at the same time attracting visitors interested in discovering new work and experiencing the local art scene. And with so many artists in this village, the area has a distinct bohemian vibe that you can see throughout the town and in many of the local shops

Natural Beauty and Scenic Hikes
The Tramuntana mountains run along the north coast of Mallorca stretching over a distance of 90km from east to west. These mountains provide some of the most stunning views in Mallorca. These hills present a network of trails that take hikers through diverse landscapes and rich geographical features. These trails and paths connect villages and historic sites, offering insights into the island’s culture, history, and heritage. There are countless trails with a range of difficulty levels to engage hikers of all abilities. The routes in the Deia area attract both casual walkers and experienced trekkers who can explore some of the mountain’s unique flora and fauna while enjoying some spectacular scenery and inspiring views in the Balearic Islands.



UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Tramuntana Mountains and the town of Deia hold cultural and historical importance due to their unique landscape and traditional architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage Site designation has increased tourism while supporting preservation efforts for the region’s historical and cultural assets. The area’s recognition is based on its distinctive combination of natural beauty, historical settlements, and agricultural terraces that reflect a long-standing human interaction with the environment.

Celebrity Watch
Celebrities have played a significant role in establishing Deia as a desired location for the rich and famous. The presence of notable figures like Richard Branson and Michael Douglas has contributed to Deia’s allure and reputation. Other celebrities that have graced this area with their presence include Alec Guinness, Peter Ustinov, Ava Gardner, Princess Diana and Robbie Williams, Kate Moss, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and Bob Geldof. Their choice to reside or vacation in Deia has of course influenced others in similar social circles to explore and invest in the region.
The celebrity appeal has helped boost the local businesses and hospitality sector, further enhancing Deia’s image as a prestigious destination. With a population of only 474 residents, this only enhances the exclusivity of the town.

A Guide to Deia’s Best Restaurants and Local Cuisine.
With such wealthy and famous personalities in the area, of course, you will find excellent dining here as well. Who knows maybe you’ll be fortunate enough to spot a celebrity or two, while out and about. Here’s a list of the top 10 restaurants in Deia that have been favorably reviewed, presented in no particular order.
- Restaurant Es Raco d’Es Teix – Offers Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal dishes.
- El Olivo – Focuses on fine dining with a menu that highlights Mediterranean seafood and meat dishes.
- La Residencia – Features a menu that combines traditional Mallorcan recipes with international flavors.
- Café de Paris – Serves a variety of light meals, snacks, and beverages in a casual setting.
- Sa Vinya – Provides a selection of tapas and local wines in a rustic atmosphere.
- Restaurante S’Esclop – Offers a range of traditional Mallorcan dishes in a relaxed environment.
- Café Son Marroig – Features light meals and refreshments with views of the surrounding landscape.
- Restaurante La Casita – Offers a mix of Mediterranean and international dishes with an emphasis on fresh ingredients.
- Trattoria Da Vinci – Serves Italian cuisine, including pasta and pizza, in a family-friendly setting.
- Celler Sa Fonda – Provides traditional Mallorcan fare in a cozy, rustic space.

Local Mallorcan Delicacies
When in Deia, make sure you try some of the local Mallorcan delicacies such as:
- Tumbet: This traditional Mallorcan dish features layers of fried vegetables like eggplant, potatoes, and bell peppers, topped with a rich tomato sauce. It’s a flavorful vegetarian option often served as a side or main dish.
- Sobrasada: A cured sausage made from ground pork, paprika, and spices, sobrasada is a staple in Mallorcan cuisine. Its soft, spreadable texture makes it perfect for enjoying on bread or as a topping for various dishes.
- Ensaimada: This sweet pastry, characterized by its spiral shape and fluffy texture, is a beloved treat in Mallorca. Often dusted with powdered sugar, it can be enjoyed plain or filled with ingredients like cream or chocolate.

Wine Tours
If you are interested in indulging in some wine tasting there are some excellent bodegas and vineyards a short drive away, offering wine tastings and tours:
- Bodega Ribas: One of the oldest wineries on the island, offering tours that include wine tasting and a look at their historic facilities.
- Macià Batle: Known for producing modern, award-winning wines, this winery offers tours with tastings of four wines and light snacks.
- Bodegas Jose L Ferrer: Offers a tour and tasting experience that includes a selection of wines paired with local cheese and meats.
- Vinya Son Alegre: Provides a wine-tasting experience in a beautiful setting, with insights into the vineyard’s operations.
- Vins Nadal: A family-run winery offering tours and tastings with Mallorcan tapas, providing a comprehensive wine experience.
These vineyards provide a mix of traditional and modern wine experiences, showcasing the rich wine culture of Mallorca.

Cultural Events and Festivals
Deia hosts the Deià International Music Festival, a prominent cultural event dedicated to chamber music, held annually from May to September. This festival features a diverse program with performances by national and international artists, covering a wide range of music from medieval to contemporary works. The concerts take place in historic venues like the Son Marroig estate, Monestir de Miramar, and the church of Deià.

Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips
Peak Tourist Season
The island’s peak tourist season falls in July and August, coinciding with school holidays in much of Northern Europe. As crowds head to the Mediterranean coast and the Balearic Islands, it can get quite busy and this will be especially true in Deia. This is a small town with limited parking so if you do choose to visit then come early in the day. Also, take care on the mountain rounds as they are relatively narrow and there will be a lot of traffic.
Tip: For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting in May/June, or in September/October. The weather is still great, and you’ll avoid the large crowds. In fact, we recently hit Playa de Formentor in late September, and with temperatures at 28°C, the conditions were perfect.

Transportation options
- Flying: Deia is about 50 km northeast of Palma Airport which serves both domestic and International flights.
- Transport on Mallorca: Taxis are readily available throughout the island, and car rentals are a good option as well. Additionally, the public transport company TIP (Transports de les Iles Balears) runs a network of bus routes connecting major towns, cities, and popular tourist spots across the island.
Accommodations
Normally I can safely say that with the tourist infrastructure in Mallorca, there is no shortage of accommodations in the area, and these range from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly youth hostels and guesthouses. However, in the case of Deia, this will be a different story. This is a small town with very little in the way of hotel accommodations. Your best bet is to check out the link below for places available in Deia, and the immediate vicinity, right now.

Book in Advance
I mentioned it above but it bears repeating, it is busy in the summer, and this is a prestigious location, so make sure to book well in advance. This basically goes for everything. Your best bet is to check online for available accommodations, car rentals, flights, restaurants, activities, and equipment and book as soon as you can to avoid disappointment.

FINAL THOUGHTS: CELEBRITY HIDEAWAY – DEIA MALLORCA SPAIN
From its rich artistic history to its serene landscapes, every corner of Deia is about inspiration and tranquility. For your next trip consider immersing yourself in the charm of this enchanting village, and if you happen to spot a celebrity or two while you’re at, then why not? Whether you’re hiking through scenic trails, savoring local delicacies, exploring cultural treasures (or celebrity sightseeing!), Deia promises memories that linger long after your visit. Ready to embark on this journey? Pack your bags and let Deia unfold its magic!

“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”
How about experiencing the Balearic Islands on the Mediterranean firsthand? 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.