Estellencs

Getting There #

Around an hour from Palma, and only accessible via car (as currently no bus service runs from the airport) Estellencs is located on the west of the island. Sitting between Andratx Village and Banyalbufar, the drive to reach Estellencs is full of hairpin bends, as you twist and turn your way through the mountains, before reaching this picture perfect village.

History and Local Sights #

The ancient history of this town is visually present in several important buildings. When it was founded in the Middle Ages, the villagers were in permanent fear of Moorish pirates was a daily given. As a way to alert people of impending attacks, watch towers were built here (as in many other places on the island). Dating all the way back to the 16th century are the EnTem Alemany and bell tower of the 17th century parish church in Plaça Es Trinquet. Another must-see is the former laundry square which is believed to date back to Arab rule. Agriculture has formed much of the town’s history, and is as present today as ever.

Estellencs has kept its rural charm and the sheer number of traditional fincas that once housed (or more often than not, still house) agricultural businesses is quite staggering.

For me though, the real draw of Estellencs is the village itself. Its narrow cobbled streets, nestled into the hillside and granting spectacular views across the spectacular coastline, are enough to take my breath away.

Food and Drink #

Unlike many other resorts, Estellencs isn’t geared up for hungry tourists, so there are very few bars and restaurants in the town.

Bar Sa Tanca
Offering a true taste of Mallorca, this small bar, serving authentic Mallorquin dishes is popular with locals and tourists alike. Serving hearty dishes at very affordable prices, there really is nothing to dislike. Although the staff do speak English, do try your best to communicate a little in Spanish, as this really is a ‘locals’ haunt, it’s appreciated by the staff (and locals too!) if you try and speak the lingo.
Address: Calle del Mar, 07912Estellencs, Telephone: +34 971 14 91 23

Vall-Hermos
For dinner with a stunning view across the sea and mountainside, Vall-Hermos simply cannot be beaten. This place is guaranteed to take your breath away. Focusing on serving hearty portions of typical Mallorquin cuisine, and sensational tapas dishes - you certainly won’t go hungry, and your bank balance won’t feel too affected, as prices are on the affordable side. Vall-Hermos is sure to become a favourite of yours when visiting this part of the island!
Address: Calle Eusebi Pascual 6, 07912 Estellencs, Telephone: +34 971 61 86 10

Sports and Recreation #

Estellencs is most popular with cyclists and hikersas there is an array of fabulous trails which you can take. One of the most impressive is the hike to Puig de Galatzo which, at an altitude of 1.026m, provides phenomenal views across Mallorca.

There is also a pleasant hike towards Es Collet, which offers a fabulous view of the rocky and rural surroundings.

Estellencs is also situated on the dry stone route GR221 (the third section) allowing you to walk from Estellencs to Esporles; or perhaps you fancy walking along the ‘Royal Road’ and discovering the beautiful village of Puigpunyent, and wandering down to the pebbled cove of Cala d’Estellencs and taking a dip in the crystal waters…

Fiestas and Annual Highlights #

As with each and every town here on the island, there is a patron saint who locals celebrate on an annual basis, and Estellencs is no exception here. Their patron saint is San Juan Bautista and the fiesta to his honour is held between the 18th and 29th of August of each year, featuring a variety of sporting, music and gastronomic events - a great experience for locals and tourists alike

During October the locals also celebrate a well-loved resident, Mateu Vidal, who was well known for his culinary expertise. This gastronomic affair only began in 2016, and sees food trucks decorate the streets of Estellencs, bands play music well into the night- and people (quite literally) eat, drink and be merry! What more could you want! This celebration usually falls around the 14th of August.

Living in Estellencs #

Finding property here can be a little tricky, as the village is simply so small, there are never that many available. However, due to the sheer beauty and location of the village, as well as its proximity to Palma, you are looking at less affordable prices here.

On average, to buy a 3-bedroomed property will cost around 285,000€ but prices can reach up to 1 million euros and over, depending on the location and style of property. Rentals are few and far between, but are in the region of 800-900€ (based on a 3-bedroomed property).

Charm Factor #

Transporting you back to an age of forgotten Mallorca, Estellencs truly is Mallorca at its finest.

Sources

Personal experience
Mallorcamarketsandfestivals.com
Tripadvisor.com
http://ibalears.com/en/blog/ma... #Mallorca #Coastline #Watchtowers #MoorishPirates