VISIT A PILGRIMAGE CHAPEL IN MALLORCA: ERMITA DE LA VICTORIA

VISIT A PILGRIMAGE CHAPEL IN MALLORCA: ERMITA DE LA VICTORIA

Ermita de la Victoria Retreat, Mallorca, Spain
Ermita de la Victoria Retreat, Mallorca, Spain
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INTRODUCTION: VISIT ERMITA DE LA VICTORIA

The Victoria Chapel or Ermita de la Victoria, is located on the Victoria Peninsula of Mallorca, north of Alcudia. This ancient hermitage offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that captivates visitors from around the world. Did you know that Ermita de la Victoria was built in the 15th century and has been a pilgrimage destination ever since? As someone who has lived on the Mediterranean coast for over a decade, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge of this beautiful destination in the Balearic Islands in Spain. Let’s dive into this post on the Ermita de la Victoria 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 Alcudia )

View of the Mediterranean from one of the trails near Ermita de la Victoria Retreat, Mallorca, Spain
View of the Mediterranean from one of the trails near Ermita de la Victoria Retreat, Mallorca, Spain

Visit Ermita de la Victoria

1. Short History of Ermita de la Victoria

The hermitage was originally started with the founding of the Carmelite Convent of La Victoria at the end of the 15th century. The building was later abandoned by the convent at the end of the 16th century. Eventually, it was taken over by the city of Alcudia, which decided to reconstruct it and turn it into a retreat. 

Entrance to the chapel on the main floor
Entrance to the chapel on the main floor

2. Architectural Highlights

The building has been tastefully reconstructed with the creation of a dozen guest rooms above the chapel, each of varying size and with its own private bathroom. The building has central heating for the winter months when the temperature in the region drops. Yes, even in Mallorca it can get a little cool in the evenings during the winter. There is a common sitting area on the upper floor where guests can read or watch television.

On the main floor, there is a small kitchen with seating available inside and outside on the terrace. The building itself has a simple austere design and is surrounded on all sides by several expansive stone terraces, shaded by large trees. The entire atmosphere is quiet and peaceful.

Common area at the Ermita de la Victoria retreat
Common area at the Ermita de la Victoria retreat

Immediately beside the hermitage is the Restaurant Mirador de la Victoria . The restaurant has a spectacular view of the Mediterranean. It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday from 1pm to 3:30pm, and again from 7pm to 11:30pm (closed on Mondays). 

3. Natural Surroundings and Scenic Views

The chapel was built at an elevation of 150m. This gives it an impressive view of the surrounding hills, Alcudia bay, and the Cap de Formentor. The chapel is at the end of the road. This means that there is no through traffic other than those there to visit the chapel. Or those coming to hike the trails. In stark contrast to the traditional beach areas of the island, the hermitage offers a quiet peaceful experience to its visitors. The entire area is surrounded by lush vegetation, mountains and the occasional wild goat (see video showing my encounter with some of the goats at the retreat. Careful, its pretty cute!).  

View of the Mediterranean from one of the trails near Ermita de la Victoria Retreat, Mallorca, Spain
View of the Mediterranean from one of the trails near Ermita de la Victoria Retreat, Mallorca, Spain

While there, I used the opportunity to go for a jog and take in the relaxed atmosphere surrounding the retreat. I had to keep an eye out for the goats so that I wouldn’t unnecessarily startle them. However it was a joy to run without having to worry about traffic. On this part of the island, we were essentially at the end of the road, in the middle of nowhere. I finished my run right at sunset so I immediately got my camera to take as many photos as I could.

4. Visiting Ermita de la Victoria

The Chapel is about 1-mile northeast of Cielo de Bonaire and roughly about 5km northeast of Alcudia. Finding the hermitage was relatively easy as we just used our trusty app on my cell phone to guide us, and we were arriving in daylight. My son went out later in the evening to pick up some snacks and was driving in pitch darkness as there are no street lights in the area. Even though he knew where the hermitage was, he still struggled to find his way back. You may want to consider this when considering your expected arrival time. If it’s after sunset, it will be dark.

Small cafe next to the stone terrace
Small cafe next to the stone terrace

As far as checking in, you can check in at any time. They have an automated system that releases the key once you provide your booking information which we had done previously online. One thing to note about the key however is that although it is numbered it also has a person’s name embossed on it. We were tired when we arrived and were struggling to find our “room” based on the key number. We finally “broke the code” when we realized that each door also had a person’s name on it which corresponded in turn to the respective name on the key (So far Mensa hasn’t contacted us!)

The retreat is the starting point for many people setting off on hikes into the hills
The retreat is the starting point for many people setting off on hikes into the hills

5. Hermitage Activities

We only stayed one night in the retreat so we didn’t have a chance to visit the chapel itself but we did get a chance in the morning to have breakfast, take a hike on one of the trails, and look around the area before taking off. There are multiple trails in the hills leading from the hermitage and is one of the other main reasons that people make their way out to this quiet location. (for more information on the trails in this area visit the Climbfinder website).

Stone buildings, lush vegetation and magnificent hills: the Mediterranean at its best!
Stone buildings, lush vegetation and magnificent hills: the Mediterranean at its best!
Friendly baby goat checking for snacks.
Friendly baby goat checking for snacks. (See video further down for more cute action)

Day Trip Suggestions

Visit Palma: Old Town/Royal Palace/The Cathedral

Consider taking a day trip to Palma and discover the charm of the city’s old town. This area is renowned for its winding streets and historic landmarks, including the Almudaina Palace, the official Mallorcan residence of the Spanish royal family, the nearby Cathedral, and the Arab Baths. The area is alive with cafes, shops, and markets, offering a great and relaxing excursion.

Day Trip Palma: Visit the Cathedral, Mallorca, Spain
Day Trip Palma: Visit the Cathedral, Mallorca, Spain

Visit Cap Formentor

From Ermita de la Victoria, you have incredible views of the Cap de Formentor across the bay. An ideal day trip idea is to head right to the end of the peninsula to the Cap Formentor lighthouse which is only about 30km from the retreat. The end destination is definitely worth it but brace yourself for an exciting trip there as the roads wind through a mountainous area giving stunning views of the coastline and the Mediterranean sea. Bring a camera and make sure to stop at the various lookout points along the way to take incredible photos.

Note: During the tourist high season in summer, the road is regulated from 10am to 10:30, allowing only buses, cyclists, and hikers through. If driving is not an option then, consider taking one of the many bus tours to the lighthouse.

Day Trip to Cap de Formentor: Visit the lighthouse overlooking the Mediterranean, Mallorca, Spain
Day Trip to Cap de Formentor: Visit the lighthouse overlooking the Mediterranean, Mallorca, Spain

Visit Alcudia

Alcudia is only about 5km from the retreat (you likely drove through it on your way to hostel). If you didnt visit Alcudia on your way in then you should definitely make a point of visiting it on the way out. The old town has a remarkably well-preserved medieval wall, among the best in the Balearic Islands. Some sections are still accessible for walking, and we walked along a nearly 400-meter continuous stretch. The town features a large pedestrian area with narrow cobblestone streets lined with shops, cafes, and local markets. On Tuesdays and Sundays visit the Weekly farmers’ markets from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

Day Trip to Alcudia: Cafe near the city’s ancient wall, Balearic Islands, Spain, The Mediterranean

Day Trip to Alcudia, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
Day Trip to Alcudia, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

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 and Spain. As crowds head to the Mediterranean coast and the Balearic Islands, it can get quite busy. To ensure a smooth trip, make sure to plan ahead and secure your accommodations, rental cars, flights, and tours well in advance.

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.

Goats Everywhere and Looking for Snacks!

FINAL THOUGHTS: VISIT ERMITA DE LA VICTORIA

Ermita de la Victoria is a beautiful location in the Balearic Islands, offering a blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this hermitage in Mallorca, Spain, promises a quiet and relaxed experience. Plan your visit now and immerse yourself in the tranquility and charm of this historic site.

Author in the common area.
Author in the common area.

“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”

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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.

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