Prettiest village in Spain
Fornalutx is a picturesque village located in the heart of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range on the Spanish island of Majorca. With its stunning mountain views and historic architecture, Fornalutx has become a popular tourist destination for those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling beaches and town centres of Majorca.
Fornalutx is one of Mallorca’s most adorable stone-built villages, a postcard pretty authentic mountain village located in the Sóller Valley. This charming hillside village is often referred to as the ‘Prettiest village in Spain’.
There’s a few different ways to get there, whichever one you choose, you will not be disappointed, the traditional rustic charm, the mountainous backdrop, the idyllic stone buildings with red tiled roofs and terraced groves crowded with citrus trees all come together to gift the village a magical, charming quality.
The village’s history dates back to the 13th century when it was established as a rural farming community. Over the centuries, the residents of Fornalutx built a series of terraced gardens, stone houses, and narrow cobbled streets that have come to define the village’s unique character.
The charming streets are lined with orange and lemon trees, while the gardens are filled with vibrant flowers and herbs that add to the village’s serene atmosphere.
From Andratx to Port de Sóller via Banyalbufar, Valldemossa, Deià & Sóller
Mountain backdrop
It’s worth visiting the village for a few hours just to take in the ambience provided by the scent of the surrounding orange and lemon groves, charming lanes, beautiful residences with green shuttered windows and multi-coloured flower boxes and gardens.
In the village, locals, expats & tourists rub shoulders together as they chill out in the various cafés and shops. Many of the cafés have terraces providing fantastic views with a mountain backdrop.
Fornalutx is also known for its traditional cuisine, with a number of restaurants serving up dishes made from locally sourced ingredients such as olive oil, herbs, and fresh seafood. The village is surrounded by fertile farmland, producing a range of products from avocados to almonds. Visitors can sample the local cuisine at one of the many outdoor cafes or taverns and enjoy a meal surrounded by the stunning mountain scenery.
Cyclists and hikers
Fornalutx is also a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, with a number of well-marked trails that lead into the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range. From Fornalutx, visitors can explore the rugged terrain, visit ancient monasteries, and take in the breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside.
Within the village, you will find its historic Gothic church, which was built in 1639 and has benefitted from more recent Baroque-style renovations. Other attractions include the town hall with its 17th-century defence tower.
Fornalutx has received prizes and recognition for tourism and conservation. In 1983 it was awarded the Mallorcan Tourism Board Silver Plaque for the defence and maintenance of the village. The same year the General Secretary for Tourism gave it the Second National Price for Towns embellished and maintained in Spain.
Despite its popularity with tourists, Fornalutx has managed to maintain its traditional charm and character. The village has strict planning regulations, ensuring that new buildings blend in with the existing architecture, and the traditional way of life is still very much present in the daily routines of the village’s residents.
In conclusion, Fornalutx is a unique and charming village that offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the timeless beauty of Majorca’s countryside. With its stunning mountain scenery, rich history, and traditional way of life, Fornalutx is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the island of Majorca.
If you enjoy getting out on the water, there are plenty of opportunities available on the island. With hidden bays that can only be accessed by boat, perfect non-tidal waters, 555 km of coastline, incredible weather and stunning views, Mallorca is a boater’s paradise. From paddle surfing to diving to jet-ski excursions & cruises, there’s a massive choice of experiences to choose from