Dreaming of Deia, Mallorca

Fresh fruit, cobblestone paths, the smell of the ocean, and mountain air envelop you as you drive into the small town of Deia in Mallorca, Spain. Bursting with history, this magical town in the Baleric Islands feels like you stepped back in time. I could have spent years exploring and would never tire of its beauty. We used Deia as our central location to stay in Western Mallorca for four nights on our seven night stay, and it felt like waking up in a dream. Here’s how you, too, can experience the fairytale that is Deia, Mallorca.

Where to Stay in Deia, Mallorca

Luxury on a Budget Option: Hotel d’Es Puig

This botique hotel was everything we could have asked for and more. They served daily breakfast with fresh Mallorcan fruit and cheese, they had two saltwater pools with incredible views, and the location could not have been better. Situated right across from La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel we felt that we were getting the luxury experience at a fraction of the cost.

The view of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains outside of our window

Upon checking in, we found that they have a parking lot with an access code, which was incredibly beneficial when searching for a spot along the narrow roads in Deia. The hotel itself is also situated up a small hill, and was initially difficult for us to find, but the parking lot was an added plus, as we highly recommend using a rental car to get around Mallorca.

Walking down the hill outside Hotel d’Es Puig to Deia's Main Street

The best part might have been that upon walking outside, you were 30 minutes walking distance from Cala Deia, and the main strip of Deia was a few steps away. We felt that we truly had the full experience of Deia’s magic from staying here.

The view of Cala Deia from above

Bucket List Option: La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel

Just being on the grounds of this resort explains their extreme attention to detail. My husband and I hope to return someday and spend a night or two at this incredible hotel.

This bucket list location is also home to the famous El Olivio restaurant, as well as Restaurante Miró, which was our favorite dining experience in Deia.

How to Travel to Deia, Mallorca

I highly recommend a rental car to drive around Mallorca. Ubers and other ride shares are not legal in Mallorca, but they do have some taxis available. The convenience of having a car allowed us to see everything on our own timeline and was so worth it for us. Expedia allows you to compare prices, and I recommend booking early to secure an automatic car, as many on the island are manual transmission.

The drive to Deia from Palma is about 45 minutes. It starts out flat but as you move into the mountains, the roads are more narrow and all uphill. The smaller the car you are able to rent, the better! There are also many bikers so keep an eye out for those sharing the road.

If you choose public transportation, there were buses that make their way up and down from most places in Mallorca. You can check fares and times at this website.

What To Do in Deia, Mallorca

Shop

• The main strip of Deia was home to a few unique shops and art galleries that I spent hours looking at. This area did not have the tourist stores that many places have, and I loved looking at the local pottery and clothing. Even the grocery stores were unique.

Eat

• Here are my top 5 can’t miss restaurants in Deia, but there are so many more small stops to enjoy tapas or dessert. We loved trying new places and learning more about the Mallorcan culture at each stop. Make sure you try some of the fresh fruit in season! We fell in love with the “Santa Claus Melon” also know as Piel de Sapo. We even found it at Whole Foods when we came back to the United States.

  

  Fresh fruit grown in Mallorca

Swim and Hike

• Cala Deia is a famous spot that involves a hike to reach, but the swim and view afterwards is the best reward. It is worth every step up and down the mountain to sit in the sun on the rocky beach and take in the crystal clear, blue water.

The view of Cala Deia's beach from Ca's Patro March

Relax

• The pools at the hotels listed above have views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, and hearing the birds ahead while swimming in the salt water pools was one of the most relaxing places I've ever been.

The pool at Hotel d’Es Puig

Visit Neighboring Towns

• One of the best things about staying in Deia, Mallorca is its central location to nearby towns. Valldemossa, Fornalutx, Sóller, and Port de Sóller were all within a 30 minute drive, and we loved experiencing the different culture and history in each of them.