A Trip to Deia
For any visitor to the North of Mallorca who appreciates scenery, culture and history in addition to local gastronomy then a visit to the beautiful village of Deia is a must. Perched high in the mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana in the north-west of Mallorca, Deia offers breathtaking views so spectacular and atmospheric it has inspired poets and artists for more than 100 years.
Short History of Deia
The village has gold-coloured homes with terracotta roofs climbing up a cone-like hill and is flanked by steep hillside vegetable gardens and orchards of citrus fruit, almonds and olives. Deia acquired its name ad-daia (hamlet) during the Islamic occupation and in this period a prosperous agriculture infrastructure was established including the sophisticated irrigation and drainage system that still exists today.
In 1583, Deia gained independence from Valldemossa and the terraces were extended enormously. The village grew, dedicating itself to fishing, olive oil, citrus fruit and sheep farming. Higher up in the oak forests lime kilns and charcoal-burners dotted the landscape and pigs were fattened on acorns. All the while, the population grew.
Deia’s history and culture is second to none, it became home to many famous artists and poets who adored the wonderful and simple way of life and stayed forever.
One of these was Robert Graves, author of over 100 books but most famous for his novel “I Claudius” which was reproduced in many languages and turned into a major BBC TV production. Robert Graves lived in Deia from 1929 until his death in 1985 and his grave next to the church and museum is open to the general public.
The house in which he lived in La Casa de Robert Graves is located 1km from Deia to Soller and consists of two floors and a basement as well as maintained gardens with a small exhibition and is open to the public.
Dining in Deia
Today during the tourist season, Deia is blessed with a plethora of restaurants to choose from, including the photogenic Ca’s Patro March which was used to film the birthday celebrations in the much acclaimed BBC series The Night Manager. But there are more, El Olivo is a stunning restaurant located in the Hotel Residencia, a beautiful retreat – especially with a cocktail. There are many typical Mallorcan restaurants, but Deia is also home to its very own Michelin starred restaurant, Béns d’Avall.
Cala de Deia, located just north of the village on the road to Soller, is a veritable treat after a long and winding drive, thankfully there is parking. Along the beautiful bay are two amazing fish restaurants the aforementioned Ca’s Patro March and Can Lluc which is right on the beach.
Getting to Deia
There are many different ways to visit Deia. You can drive from Pollensa on the Soller road and just continue on or drive down towards Palma and then up to Soller which is the quickest route.
Other alternatives are to use the Soller train and get a taxi or bus to Deia or simply take a bus from Palma to Soller, which stops at both Valldemossa and Deia. The final choice is to use one of the local tour guides and explore Soller, Valldemossa and Deia in one day and experience what is truly magical about the Serra de Tramuntana a UNESCO heritage site and the largest natural park on the island with some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe.
