DISCOVER ESTELLENCS MALLORCA: SCENIC DRIVE AND SIGHTS
DISCOVER ESTELLENCS MALLORCA: SCENIC DRIVE AND SIGHTS
INTRODUCTION: DISCOVER ESTELLENCS MALLORCA
Located in the Serra de Tramuntana, Estellencs Mallorca is a captivating mountain village overlooking the sea. With a population barely surpassing 350, this quaint locale is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Did you know that Estellencs is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Wander through cobblestone streets, breathe in the Mediterranean air, and soak in the peace and quiet of a centuries old Mallorcan town. Estellencs is a “must-visit” on your Mallorca / Spain itinerary!
As someone who has lived in the area for over a decade, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge of this holiday destination on the Mediterranean in Spain. Let’s dive into this post 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 Port De Soller“)
Driving to Estellencs
Driving to Estellencs is an adventure in itself. We started in Peguera and made our way north through the Serre de Tramuntana. With narrow winding roads that snake through the mountains, each bend revealing a new incredible view of the rugged landscape, it’s like something out of a movie.
The roads can be a bit intimidating, especially if you’re not used to mountain driving. There were moments when my knuckles turned white from gripping the wheel too tight – and I wasn’t the one driving! Just take it slow and be prepared for lots of vehicle traffic and for tons of cyclists making their way along the same road.
There are several pull-off spots where you can pause, catch your breath, and snap some photos of the stunning scenery. However, they are not well marked so you won’t have much warning before having to turn on to them. They are lifesavers though, for when you need to give your nerves a rest. They are also a perfect opportunity to just soak in the views of the Mediterranean stretching out below.
One of my favorite stops along the way was the Mirador Ricardo Roca. Here you can stop for a coffee and enjoy the spectacular view!
Driving through the little towns on the way to Estellencs is like flipping through a travel magazine. Each one has its own charm, and if you have time, a quick detour into these spots can uncover hidden gems like local bakeries or markets.
Main Take Away: don’t rush. The roads might be narrow, but they’re best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Besides, rushing means you might miss a glimpse of wild goats or the scent of pine trees wafting through open windows. For navigation, I’d suggest downloading an offline map, just in case your GPS decides to take a nap in the mountains.
Exploring Estellencs
Wandering through Estellencs is like stepping into a timeless postcard. Picture this: narrow cobble-stoned streets winding through rustic stone houses, each with their own stories and histories. The best way to explore this hidden gem is on foot.
As you meander through the narrow lanes, you’ll notice how life here moves at a different pace. The locals nod as you pass by, maybe even offering a friendly “Bon dia!”
One of my favorite spots is the little park right next to the church, Yglesia de San Juan Bautista. There’s something soothing about sitting on one of the wooden benches, watching the world go by. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local festival or market, where you can taste handmade treats and pick up a souvenir or two.
As you continue your tour, take a detour down one of the side alleys. It’s in these quiet corners that you find the real magic of this town. Around one street corner, we discovered a small cozy café, a perfect spot to sit with a cup of coffee and a slice of almond cake, and soak in the peace and quiet.
Don’t miss the small lookout points scattered throughout the village. They offer stunning views of the surrounding terraced hills and the endless sea beyond.
Travel Essentials for Visitors
First off, comfy shoes are a must. The town is built on the side of a hill so walking around this village, although picturesque, can be a bit of a workout for your feet. Flip-flops are not a good idea here. Pack a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sandals with good arch support. Your feet will thank you, and you can explore without a hitch.
Weather during the off-season in Mallorca can be a bit unpredictable, so layering is key. Even if it’s summer, mornings and evenings can be cool. A lightweight jacket or a cozy sweater will do wonders for those breezy nights.
Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat! The Mediterranean sun is beautiful but fierce. I learned this the hard way on my first visit. One day of forgetting to apply sunscreen left me looking like a lobster. Not exactly the souvenir I wanted!
Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips for Estellencs Mallorca
Peak Tourist Season
The peak tourist season in the Balearic Islands 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.
For the best driving experience, you definitely want to avoid the high season. When we drove to Estellencs, it was near the end of September and the traffic was still quite heavy but manageable. Driving these same roads during peak season is not recommended.
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.
FINAL THOUGHTS: DISCOVER ESTELLENCS MALLORCA
Exploring Estellencs is an experience that blends the rustic charm of village life with the majestic beauty of the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Whether you’re hiking its trails or indulging in local flavors, this village promises memories that linger long after your visit. Ready to uncover this hidden gem? Pack your bags and let Estellencs Mallorca, captivate you with its timeless charm!
“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”
How about experiencing 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.
