Nestled in a valley in the northeast of Mallorca, Artà is one of the most beautiful villages on the island. This charming corner stands out for its picturesque landscape, history, Mallorcan tradition and tranquillity that keeps it away from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism. Artà offers a range of accommodation to suit every traveller’s needs, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay during your visit.
You will recognise Artà immediately by its ancient sanctuary and parish church, which stand proudly on high and invite you to explore its charm. Although it is a quiet place, far from the big tourist centres, it has a lot to offer and surprises visitors.
About Artà
Artà reveals a mosaic of natural wonders and serene landscapes waiting to be discovered. Surrounded by the majestic Massís d’Artà, just 70 kilometres from Palma, the island’s capital, its coastline stretches 25 kilometres along the Mediterranean. It is adorned with unspoilt beaches, such as the mesmerising Sa Canova d’Artà and the solitary coves of Cap de Ferrutx. From the coastal strip near Colonia de Sant Pere to the rugged beauty of Cala Torta, Artà’s coasts promise endless exploration. The region is also home to several historical sites, including the ancient fortress of Almudaina and the Bronze Age talayotic settlement of Ses Païsses, offering a rich cultural experience.
Amidst the picturesque landscape of Mallorca, Artà beckons with its rugged hills and untamed beauty. From the towering heights of Puig Morei to the tranquil valleys of Massis d’Artà, this municipality boasts a diverse terrain filled with natural wonders.
The coastal region north of Artà is a sanctuary for wildlife such as ospreys and peregrine falcons, while wild goats roam freely. Among the lush vegetation, olive orchards thrive alongside almond, fig and carob trees, surrounded by ancient dry stone walls. The region’s unique flora, from the palmetto to the wild olive, inspires local craftsmen, especially the basket makers who still use the palmetto as their primary resource. The landscape of Artà is not only a sight to behold but a testimony to the harmonious coexistence of nature and tradition on the island.
Accommodation in Artà
Sealand Villas is a company with years of experience, offering beautiful villas and apartments for rent in the area. It is an excellent option for those looking for a space of their own in this corner of Mallorca.
Artà History
The rich history of Artà unfolds like a captivating tale, going back to ancient times, when it was first mentioned in 1232 as Yartân.
Originally inhabited since the colonisation of Mallorca, Artà boasts archaeological treasures such as Ses Païsses, dating from 1300-100 BC. The region’s past is shrouded in mystery during the Roman and pre-Islamic periods. However, the remains of an ancient fortress atop the town’s hill hint at a storied past that predates Islamic-Arabic possession. During Moorish and early Catalan rule, the fortress, known as Almudaina, was a testament to the region’s strategic importance. The rise of present-day Artà in the 13th century coincided with the arrival of the Norbertines, who founded the Priory of Santa Maria del Bellpuig.
Over the centuries, Artà endured challenges such as the bubonic plague of 1820 but flourished with the rise of agriculture and the textile industry. Today, Artà is a testament to resilience, combining its rich history with the appeal of modern tourism while preserving vast areas of unspoilt beauty in the Península de Llevant Natural Park.
Things to do in Artà
In Artà, adventure and culture intermingle to offer visitors various experiences. When visiting this area, there are places you can’t miss:
S’Almudaina d’Artà and The Santuari de Sant Salvador
S’Almudaina d’Artà, a testimony to the Arab period in Mallorca, stands majestically at the top of Puig de Sant Salvador. Its name comes from the Arabic “al-mudayna”, which means “fortress” or “citadel”. This historic site was crucial in protecting the region during Islamic rule.
Today, the church of Sant Salvador d’Artà stands within its ancient walls. S’Almudaina served as a refuge for the population and housed the sanctuary of Sant Salvador, attended by the Premonstratensians from the nearby monastery of Bellpuig. In the 14th century, a church was built inside it, which was devastated by the plague of 1820 and later rebuilt between 1825 and 1832 as the current Sant Salvador sanctuary. Today, within its hallowed walls stands an exquisitely crafted statue of the Virgin Mary, a symbol of the island’s enduring faith and resilience.
The imposing Santuari de Sant Salvador dominates the skyline of Artà. This fortified sanctuary invites you to explore its rich history. Strolling along its tree-lined path, where 180 steps lead you up to this 14th-century architectural marvel, is a unique experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Ses Païsses
Ses Païsses, on the outskirts of the village, is a fascinating testimony to Mallorca’s ancient past, featuring an extraordinarily well-preserved Bronze Age talayotic settlement. Despite being largely hidden by the forest, the site offers a glimpse into prehistoric life through its impressive structures, such as the imposing cylindrical talayot and the intriguing hypostyle chamber. Visitors are captivated by the mystery surrounding these megalithic icons and wonder about their purpose and significance in ancient history. Exploring Ses Païsses is an immersive journey back in time, offering a unique opportunity to connect with Mallorca’s rich archaeological heritage.
Festivals in Artà
Visiting here, you can’t miss Artà’s vibrant cultural scene by attending the local festivals and markets. Experience the lively celebrations in the first week of August in honour of the patron saint, San Salvador, or join in the fiestas of San Antonio in January, full of traditional music and dance. Don’t miss the autumn fair in September, which offers a mix of agricultural displays and activities for all the family. These events are a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.
The cultural spots of Artà
Discover the history of the town by visiting the Museu Regional d’Artà and enjoy a variety of shows at the Teatre d’Artà, a cultural centre. After a day of exploring, indulge in the local cuisine at one of Artà’s many restaurants, which offer a variety of traditional Mallorcan dishes. You can also go to the craft market at Na Batlessa village to admire local crafts or explore the stalls at the general market in Plaça del Conqueridor every Tuesday morning.
Caves of Artà
Explore the Artà Caves, where nature has woven magic into every corner. Start your adventure by descending a grand staircase that reveals the natural entrance, with a breathtaking view over the bay of Canyamel. Inside, impressive formations await you, such as the Queen of Columns, a majestic 17-metre stalagmite that will take your breath away. Follow the path and dive into the mysterious Inferno, where a sound and light show enhances the magical atmosphere of this underground world. The tour lasts between 35 and 40 minutes, culminating with a visit to La Gloria viewpoint, offering an unforgettable view of Mallorca’s natural wonders.
Hiking in Artà
A short distance from this charming village is the Llevant Natural Park, which will dazzle you with its natural beauty and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Arriving at the Llevant Peninsula Natural Park, you will discover an incredible hiking paradise with coastal cliffs, pine forests and heathland, home to hedgehogs, martens, toads and a wide variety of other flora and fauna.
Several signposted routes with different difficulty levels will take you along its paths and connect you with nature in its purest form. Some outstanding routes include the Camí de Cala Torta, the Camí dels Presos, and the Ermita de Betlem path.
Beaches around Artà
The beaches around Artà are real hidden treasures of Mallorca. Cala Dèntol is a small, secluded beach that offers tranquillity with its natural surroundings. Cala Torta presents an unspoilt environment with its extensive white sand and crystal-clear waters for those looking for a broader landscape. Cala Mesquida, known for its dunes and vibrant turquoise waters, is a popular destination for tourists and locals. Nearby, Cala Agulla is noted for its natural beauty and ideal swimming waters. With its vibrant promenade, Cala Ratjada combines the beach’s beauty with vibrant coastal life. If you prefer diving, Cala Estret is perfect with its impressive seabed. S’Arenalet d’Aubarca, with its fine sand and natural surroundings, offers an authentic Mediterranean experience. With its great length and lush vegetation, Sa Canova is ideal for those who wish to lose themselves in the natural beauty of Mallorca.
Conclusion
Artà, with its picturesque location in the northeast of Mallorca, captivates visitors with its natural beauty, rich history and Mallorcan authenticity. This charming village offers a unique combination of tranquillity, natural wonders and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination for those seeking a genuine island experience. From fascinating archaeological sites such as Ses Païsses to the breathtaking views from the Santuari de Sant Salvador to underground adventures in the Artà Caves and serene, unspoilt beaches, Artà is a place where history, nature and culture come together to offer an unforgettable Mallorcan experience.
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