In her famous novel, “A Winter in Mallorca”, George Sand, writes about her impossibly freezing winter in Valldemossa, living in a damp and cold monastery with her lover, pianist, Frederic Chopin, who was suffering from tuberculosis. Although it did make for a dramatic story, the book doesn’t quite do justice to this historic village. Set in the mountains with terraced landscapes and cobblestone streets, Valldemossa is one of the island’s most beautiful and liveable villages. Surrounded by nature, yet only 15-20 minutes from Palma, Valldemossa is beloved by tourists as well as its residents for its unique location and its place in Mallorcan history.
History
There is much historic heritage to visit and appreciate in Valldemossa. Dating back to the 13th century, Valldemossa was originally established as a royal estate by King James II of Mallorca. Its name, derived from the Arabic "Wadi al-Musa" meaning "Valley of Musa," alludes to the Moorish influence that once graced the region. The town's strategic location offered a vantage point over the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean Sea, making it a coveted settlement throughout history.
In the 14th century, the Carthusian Monastery of Valldemossa was founded, becoming a focal point of cultural and religious significance. The monastery, known locally as La Cartuja, served as a residence for monks and witnessed a series of historical events, including the exile of King Sancho I of Mallorca and his son James II of Majorca in the 14th century. The monastery's architectural splendour, characterised by Gothic and Renaissance elements, adds a timeless allure to Valldemossa.
Valldemossa is also the birthplace of Mallorca patron saint, Santa Catalina Thomas, and there is a shrine in the town in her name.
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Cultural Life
Valldemossa became one of Mallorca’s most sought after places to visit following George Sand’s book. Despite her complaints, people wanted to come visit this mysterious village and also pay homage to Chopin, who is thought to have produced several famous scores here. The Chopin Museum, housed in the Carthusian Monastery, where they rented rooms, is a must-visit museum.
Because of its beauty and cultural past, Valldemossa is a desirable place to live or visit by artists and creatives. In recent years, actor Michael Douglas, who has an estate nearby, opened a contemporary cultural centre, Costa Nord, and the town has a few art galleries as well to support local art.
Tiny, cobblestone streets are home to boutiques, cafés and restaurants. People take good care of their homes and streets, with potted plants and flowers and ceramic wall tiles featured on many buildings. The Sunday market is a big attraction, bringing excellent vendors of fruit and vegetables, local ham and olive oil and many others. It is also not far from one of the more historic olive oil farms, Son Moragues.
The Landscape
Valldemossa’s privileged location in the mountains makes it an excellent base from which to hike and discover the Tramuntana mountains. Popular with cyclists as well, there are countless trails and paths to explore. The tiny Port de Valldemossa is found down a winding road and offers a place to swim, but better to head towards Cala Deia, only a 10-15 minute drive away.
What we love
While only 20 minutes to Palma, Valldemossa feels a world away, with its historic, stone village appeal and its privileged location in the mountains.
