Don’t Miss These Four Scenic Drives in Mallorca

Scenic drives in Mallorca intersperse dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages and sapphire seas. Wind through orchards and groves overlooking the coastline, stopping appropriately for those postcard-perfect moments. Wherever you drive, you’re in for a treat. We have compiled a guide to the best scenic drives in Mallorca for you.

Many villages included below form bases for stops should you wish to explore further on foot. Drives should take no longer than 2 hours. Ensure that you leave some time to truly discover the delights along the way.

Cala Millor beach near Son Servera. Photo by: lunamarina/Adobe Stock

Northeast: Manacor to Alcudia

Starting in Manacor (A), stroll the streets to admire the architecture of the Esglesia dels Delors de Nostra Senyora church and the Torre dels Enagistes, now the Manacor History Museum.

Fun fact! Manacor is the birthplace of Rafael Nadal, tennis star.

Head out, following signs for Porto Cristo (B). You’ll pass the Coves dels Hams (Fishhook Caves) which can be worth a stop for the stalactites it’s named after. Alternatively, for a better cave experience, head east of Porto Cristo for the Coves dels Drach (Dragon Caves), home of underground Lake Martel. Classical music is performed here daily so worth a timely visit.

Head through the traditional beach resort of Porto Cristo and continue along the seafront road signposted for Son Servera and Cala Millor. The road meanders through orchards and you’ll pass the Safari Zoo on your left (we recommend you don’t take your hire car through!).

Continue along the road and bypass Cala Millor, unless you’d like to take a ride in a glass-bottomed boat. These trips usually stop for 30 minutes to allow you to dive from the boat or swim. There are also great clean beaches for a doze under the sun or for stretching your legs on the sand.

Heading east from Cala Millor will take you into tranquil Son Servera (C). Head right towards Capdepera (D). Take a break and make the climb on foot to the fully restored Capdepera Castle. Continue on your journey, making a detour if you wish to Cala Mesquida (E) for a stop at the beach.

Capdepera Castle. Photo by: blickwinkel2511/Adobe Stock

Head back and take the road to Artà (F). Explore the Caves d’Artà, set into a cliff-face with stunning views of the sea. Walk in the footsteps of famous visitors such as Jules Verne and Alexander Dumas through chambers called Hell, Purgatory and Paradise.

Continue along the coastal road around the bay of Alcúdia (G).

West: Andratx to Es Capdellà or Sóller

Both routes begin in Andratx (A) and take the C710 northwards to Estellencs.

Fun fact! 12 towers built to look out for pirates still stand around Andratx and nearby Calvià.

A climbing road passes through a tunnel and exits with a stunning sea view. The road runs, twisting and turning along the coastline. In Estellencs (B), navigate cobbled streets and historic façades, popular among walkers and cyclists. If you have time, spare 2 hours for the climb up Mount Galatzo. Night excursions have been planned in the past to provide excellent opportunities for star gazing.

Head towards Banyalbufar (C), but pause for the dramatic lookout, Mirador de ses Animes or Torre del Verger, a 16th century watchtower to defend against pirates. You’ll be rewarded with some superb views out to sea. In Banyalbufar, sample the locally produced Malvasia white wine before continuing on.

For Es Capdellà…

Head towards Palma but take the signposted road (D) before you reach Esporles towards the Museo la Granja. Absorb the history of Majorca here with local crafts and serene gardens.

Continue along the twisting road through olive groves to Puigpunyent (E), set in the Tramuntana Mountains. Visit one of the many family-run vineyards for a tour and lunch. If you’re a keen hiker, there’s some fantastic walks to take advantage of.

Remain heading south and sample fantastic tapas in Galilea (F) while enjoying sea views. Take a detour to La Reserva de Galatzo (G) to learn more of the natural history of the area. Legend has it the ghost of Conde Mal, the infamous ‘Bad Count’ Ramon Safortesa, roams here.

Further along with jaw dropping mountain views is the final stop, Es Capdellà (H).

For Sóller…

Take the signposted roads from Banyalbufar to Valldemossa (D), known as one of the prettiest villages in Majorca. Visit the most striking landmark here, the Carthusian monastery, Real Cartuja de Valldemossa. Many artists have found their inspiration here including the composer, Chopin. Locate a family bakery serving traditional coca de patata (potato cake) and enjoy with a hot chocolate or coffee.

Double back on yourself a bit and drive alongside the coastline to Deià (E), another pretty village known to draw in artists for inspiration. Head down to Cala Deià, a little shingle beach perfect for swimming or snorkelling. Dine in one of the restaurants, with a variety of styles to suit any palate. The Es Raco D’es Teix is Michelin star winning.

Deià. Photo by: vulcanus/Adobe Stock

Take the final seven miles of mountain road to Sóller (F), the peak of relaxation. Soak up the sun in one of the street-side cafes. Treat yourself to freshly-baked pastries, sample freshly squeezed orange juice from oranges grown nearby or try locally churned ice cream. For architectural highlights, visit the 13th century Sant Bartomeu church, the 15th century La Casa de la Luna and the 18th century neoclassical palace La Posada de Montcaire. The Balearic Museum of Natural Sciences is also worth a look.

Central: Petra to Vilafranca

Start your journey in Petra (A) and begin towards Santa Margalida and bypass for Muro (B). Whilst in Muro, make time for the Museu Etnològic de Mallorca, housed in a 17th century manor house. There’s also the Catalan-Gothic church of Sant Joan Baptista, nestled among palm trees.

Head out of Muro towards Sa Pobla (C), passing windmills and potato fields against a mountainous backdrop. In fact, there’s so many windmills, signalling the agricultural heritage here, it’s known locally as the “land of a thousand windmills”. From Sa Pobla, follow signs for Llubí (D). Vastly untouched by tourism, the most outstanding thing you’ll find here is an unusual collection of stuffed deformed animals in one of the bars. Features include a two-headed deer. Not everyone’s cup of tea…

From Llubí take a narrow road into Sineu (E) and onto Sant Joan. Take in the parish church here which mixes remains of the original 18th century temple with 20th century additions. Head southwards to Montuïri (F). The interior of the Gothic church of Sant Bartomeu has an incredible interior, should you wish to make a stop. Cross the Palma-Manacor highway into Porreres (G).

Sineu. Photo by: allard1/Adobe Stock

In Porreres, make a special visit to the Jaume Mesquida winery, located in the centre. 5 different types of tour are on offer, each including either a lunch or dinner.

From Porreres head into Vilafranca (H) for the end of this trip. On the way, you’ll pass Els Calderers de Sant Joan, a manor house once the epitome of a large wine estate. It’s now a stunning museum with wine cellar, granary, bakery, chapel and wash-house.

What’s your favourite scenic drive in Mallorca?

Have you travelled any of the roads mentioned above? Where would you recommend for the best photographs? Let us know your Mallorcan highlights in the comments.

Zest currently works with the suppliers Hiper, Click Rent, Hertz, Drivalia and Centauro across Mallorca. Collect your hire car from Palma Airport from any of the suppliers above and begin your Mallorcan road trip.

Written by Jessica Juby.

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