This is your ultimate guide to planning a trip to Deia Mallorca and everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip.

Nestled Along Mallorca’s Rugged Coastline Sits the Idyllic town of Deia Mallorca. As one of the highest populated zones in the breathtaking Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Deià is one of the most quant villages in Mallorca.

Deià resides in a sublime landscape where nature and culture blend seamlessly. Bright blue skies provide a vivid contrast to the village’s stone facades in tones of ochre, terra cotta and cream.

I traveled to Mallorca and visited Deia in May, and this is a travel guide to help you plan your trip to Deia Mallorca.

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Deia Mallorca, Spain 

No time to read it all? Here are the highlights:

• Located on Mallorca’s scenic northwest coast, Deià is one of Spain’s most picturesque villages with jaw-dropping mountain and sea views.
• Stay 2-4 nights to relax at one of the area’s charming hotels, dine at excellent restaurants with Mediterranean cuisine, and swim in the azure waters of Cala Deià beach.
• Don’t miss out on hiking trails granting access to historic sites, live music venues popular with both locals and celebrities and the former home of famous English poet Robert Graves.

How Far is Deià from Palma?

Deià sits about 27 miles (43 km) from the capital city of Palma in northwest Mallorca.

By car, expect a picturesque 60-90 minute drive depending on traffic conditions.

On public transit, bus #210 offers direct service taking about 1 hour from Palma’s bus station Estació Intermodal to Deià’s town center.

 The Best Time To Visit cala Deia Mallorca

You Should Book Your Visit to Deia during Mallorca’s shoulder season.

Mallorca enjoys pleasant weather year-round, but Deià truly shines in spring and fall when the summer crowds thin. Aim to travel in May, June or September to October. You’ll beat the heat and inflated prices of high season months, while businesses remain open. Reserving hotel rooms and restaurant tables well in advance is highly recommended regardless of when you go.

How To Get To deià Mallorca

I recommend you rent a car in Palma and head over to Deia. Renting a car provides the greatest flexibility for navigating Deià’s steep, winding mountain roads. Just brace yourself, as parking space comes at a premium. Alternatively, you can take buses from Palma or elsewhere on Mallorca.

The scenic journey takes around 50 minutes without heavy tourist traffic.

How to Drive from Palma to Deià:

The drive from Palma on Mallorca’s southern coast to the scenic village of Deià on the northwest side takes around 1 hour without traffic. To start, ensure you have a rental car and a full tank of gas for the approximately 40 mile (65 km) journey.

1. Start out from central Palma heading north on Via Cintura (Ma-20)
2. Take exit 10 from Via Cintura toward Valldemossa (Ma-10)
3. Continue northwest for 19 miles (31 km) as the road winds through gorgeous mountain scenery
4. Pass through the town of Valldemossa
5. Drive 6 more miles (9km) and look for signs pointing right toward Deià on Ma-10
6. Take this right fork continuing west and uphill on Ma-10
7. After 2 more twisty miles (3km), you will enter the village of Deià
8. Drive slowly now along the narrow main road, Carrer de Sa Vileta through town
9. Pass landmarks like pharmacy, grocery store Es Forn, and finally Belmond La Residencia hotel on you left
10. Valet parking access for the hotel resides just 50 yards past the entrance on your left
11. Limited public parking areas are scattered on both sides farther into town, so you may need to continue on and turn around if you don’t spot an open space beyond the hotel

That covers the basics, but drive cautiously as parts of the journey involve steep climbs and hairpin turns. Allow extra time so you don’t feel rushed navigating the challenging terrain. On arrival be sure not to block driveways, and respect any no parking signs or pedestrian zones — fines strictly enforced

Best Hotels in Deia Mallorca 

Lodging in Deià epitomizes intimacy with cozy hotels tucked amid gorgeous gardens or perched on the steep mountainsides.

Book your preferred hotel in Daia 6-12 months out is wise given the limited capacity anywhere from 5 to 60 rooms.

Three premier properties stand out for their first-rate amenities and celestial views.

Where to Stay in Deià Mallorca

Belmond La Residencia 

Built as a noble family’s summer estate in the 1600s before becoming one of Richard Branson’s favorite escapes. The rooms still embody aristocratic pedigree through four-poster beds and artisan tiles paired with modern luxe bathrooms.

Relaxation comes easy between the spa, sculpture gardens and trio of pools surrounded by fragrant citrus trees. Then savor Mediterranean cuisine prepared to perfection at El Olivo Restaurant. Address – Son Canals s/n, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears

S’Hotel d’Es Puig 

True to Mallorcan architectural tradition with welcoming touches like wrought iron beds and terra cotta floors accompanied by contemporary oil paintings. twenty-seven restful units overlook countryside panoramas from private balconies or the divine saltwater pool and patio.

Wake up to an exceptional breakfast spread before tackling trails leading into the village just steps away.
Address – Es Puig 4, Deià 07179, Spain

Es MoliEs Molí Hotel 

Built on the site of an old olive oil mill, the historic details meet chic design thanks to former co-owner Elizabeth Taylor. beyond seventy stylishly decorated rooms lie botanical gardens, infinity and lap pools, plus a top-notch Mediterranean restaurant called El Olivo with show-stopping cala vistas.

Guests have exclusive access to the hotel’s secluded beach club reachable by shuttle. Address – Ctra. Deià – Sóller KM 3, 07179 Deià, Islas Baleares

Top Hotels in Deià, Mallorca

Property	Highlights	# Rooms	Book
Belmond La Residencia	Full spa, 3 pools, 2 restaurants, bar, sculpture gardens	68 rooms & suites	Check Rates
S’Hotel d’Es Puig	Saltwater pool, balcony views, trail access	27 rooms & suites	Check Rates
Es Molí Hotel	Beach club, infinity & lap pools, spa access	74 rooms & suites	Check Rates

Best Time to Visit Deià, Mallorca Temperature by month 

Month	Average Temps	High Season?
May	18°C (64°F)	No
June	23°C (73°F)	Yes
July	26°C (79°F)	Yes
August	26°C (79°F}	Yes
September	23°C (73°F)	No
October	19°C (66°F)	No

Is Deià Mallorca Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Deià emerges as one of Spain’s most charming and beautiful small towns, winning over tourists seeking sublime vistas, bohemian culture, outdoor activities, gourmet dining, and tranquility. Perched cliffside in the breathtaking Serra de Tramuntana Mountains, everything about this coastal village elicits feelings of magic and inspiration.

Some key highlights that make it worth the trip:

• Jaw-dropping views of mountains, lush valleys, and the azure Mediterranean
• Well-preserved medieval architecture and fascinating ancient sites
• Restaurant and shopping scene punching above its small size
• Inviting cafes, galleries, and high-end boutique hotels
• Spring wildflowers and colorful changing foliage in autumn

The hardest part is leaving the beauty and welcoming community of Deià behind! You’ll almost certainly depart hoping to return very soon to this little slice of paradise in northwest Mallorca.

How Many Nights to Stay in Deiá

2 nights

This allows enough time to explore Deiá’s quaint shops and lanes, dine at a few restaurants with scenic terraces, hike down to Cala Deiá beach, and attend the lively evening concert at Cafe Sa Fonda. You’ll get a good taste of Deiá’s artistic ambiance.

3 nights 

Adding another night gives you time for a longer hike like the Sa Foradada loop or tennis at La Residencia, plus the opportunity to lounge by a hotel pool and book more elaborate spa treatments. An extra day also means you can take side trips to nearby destinations like Valldemossa without feeling rushed.

4 nights

With four nights in Deiá, days won’t feel jam-packed allowing you to fully relax into the relaxed rhythm of the village. Go wine tasting, visit archaeology or art museums, watch the sunset from a cliffside restaurant, or simply read a book on your balcony soaking up sublime mountain-to-sea panoramas. Four nights ensures immersion into Deiá’s inspiring creative community.

5+ nights

Any longer than 4-5 nights risks saturation unless you plan extended hikes, water sports, or day trips across Mallorca with Deiá as your peaceful base. You’ll have time to try every highly-rated restaurant too. I’d recommend splitting additional nights between Deiá and another village.

So in summary, 3-4 nights lets you comfortably experience Deiá’s highlights at an unhurried pace without becoming restless or running out of activities. You’ll come away feeling refreshed, inspired, and likely eager to return someday! Let me know if you need any other recommendations for making the most of your Deiá escape.

Is Deià Mallorca Expensive?

Compared to other beach destinations in Spain, Deià does see elevated prices, especially for hotels given limited availability and luxury orientation. However, more affordable apartments and agroturismo farm stays dot the countryside only a few minute’s drive from town if you have a rental car. Regardless, expect to spend more on dining and activities than other parts of Mallorca.

Ways to visit Mallorca affordably:

• Travel in the shoulder season of May/June or September/October
• Self-cater meals and limit eating at the finest restaurants
• Choose mid-range over deluxe hotel categories
• Hike and visit beaches instead of paying for tours/lessons

If cost-conscious, Deià works best as a special splurge for part of your Mallorca holiday rather than whole trip. But the sublime views, gourmet Mediterranean meals, and access to creativity and culture make it worthwhile even on a moderate budget when visiting off-peak.

Where to Park in Deià Mallorca

Public parking is extremely limited within the village itself. Spots open on the main road Carrer de Vileta and a tiny lot across from the pharmacy charge hourly fees. Alternatives include:

• Belmond La Residencia – Available only for hotel guests and patrons
• Public lot at Cala Deià beach – Small car park requiring payment seasonally
• On streets without restrictions – Check signs carefully before leaving the vehicle unattended
• Taxi/hike into town from the outskirts – Allows worry-free access minus parking headaches

Can You Swim in Deià Mallorca?

The stunning rocky cove beach Cala Deià lies around a 30 minute walk downhill from the village or very short drive. It remains relatively peaceful even at the height of summer with few services. The clear turquoise waters make for excellent swimming and you’ll also spot locals diving and snorkeling.

Just use caution on the uneven rocks and cobbles underfoot when entering the cool Mediterranean waters. After your refreshing dip, enjoy lunch at one of the two cliffside restaurants overlooking this picturesque inlet hugged dramatically by mountains.

So in summary – yes! Swimming and beachgoing stand as popular activities in Deià proper. For longer sandy stretches, the resort towns of Valldemossa and Sóller sit only 15-30 minutes away by car. Deià makes the perfect base to balance quaint village charm with ample access to Mallorca’s gorgeous coastline.

 Deia Mallorca things to do: Deia things to do 

While simply meandering Deià’s postcard-worthy lanes and admiring the sympathy restored ancient dwellings proves plenty stimulating, more adventurous pursuits await in the surrounding glorious landscape as well.

Hiking and biking dominate as favorite pastimes to delight nature lovers. The tourist office provides maps for journeys ranging from modest to extreme based on your abilities.

Wander and stroll through the town of Deia 

town of Deiá is quaint and filled with little cute shops and eateries. I’d recommend taking some time to just wander the cute streets. The main road, the MA-10 runs straight through the center of the village and while this is the beating heart of Deia, be sure to venture into the smaller streets!  

Tip: head up to Sant Joan de Deià, the local church with some incredible views from the top.

Hike the Sa Foradada Loop

The 12 km route incorporates calming forests, the immaculately preserved Son Marroig estate, and a peninsula outlook called Sa Foradada meaning “the pierced one.” Led by experienced guides, the 7.5-mile trek requires reasonable fitness and includes Miramar Monastery.

Route from Deià to Cala Deià The steep, 1.3-mile descent from the village to its easiest hike is the path going down to Cala Deia. picturesque rocky cove beach passes through stimulating scenery. Stop at one of two restaurants for a seaside lunch. You’ll work off the calories climbing 650 ft on the return!

Relax at Cala Deià

Pack your swimsuit and a light snack and soak up the sun and swim in the impossibly clear water. As one of the most beautiful Deia beaches, you have to see.

Hike Down to Cala Deià Trek 1.3 miles down a steep route to reach this idyllic rocky cove for swimming and sunbathing. Have lunch at cliffside Ca’s Patro March restaurant. (It’s one of the most picturesque restaurants in Mallorca) Arrange a shuttle or prepare for a tough 650 ft ascent back to town. The path down starts at the Deia Tennis Club.

Tip: Make reservations online or arrive before they open see if they can squeeze you in!

Visit Robert Graves House Museum

Tour the home where the famous English poet and novelist wrote much of his seminal work before his death in 1985. Exhibits provide insight into his unconventional life.

Catch Live Music Where the Locals Go

Late nights in Deià center around Cafe Sa Fonda located behind the pharmacy and up a short flight of stone steps. Tourists initially overlook the unassuming bar if not tipped off, but it’s been a decades-long hub for impromptu performances by talented musicians that often incite dancing. There’s no telling who you’ll see among the eclectic mix of creative regulars and hip vacationers soaking in the festive atmosphere over drinks most evenings. This is where village culture thrives.

Go Wine Tasting in Daia Mallorca

has a fast growing wine region full of biodynamic vineyards and innovative producers. Book a driver for a day to visit the vineyards and cellars along the north coast.

Take a Yoga Class

Welcome peace through gentle movement during daily yoga and meditation sessions at Belmond La Residencia’s hilltop platform with serene sea views. All levels welcome.

Visit the nearby town of Valldemossa

Only 6 miles (10km) southeast along the coast from Deià lies postcard-perfect Valldemossa. Its labyrinth of ancient stone buildings shaded by towering trees exude tranquility. You could easily spend hours getting happily lost strolling narrow cobbled lanes lined with cafés, bakeries, and boutique shops.

Enjoy drinks and Sunset at Cafe Miró

head to Cafe Miró at Belmond La Residencia for cocktails and a light bite. The cafe terrace is the perfect place to enjoy the last rays of sunshine and a refreshing cocktail to reflect on the day. Make reservations ahead.

Tip: There is a $75 Per person spend here

The cafe also serves some light bites you can enjoy while also savoring the views.

Check out the Boutique Art Galleries and Shops in Deia

Deià is known to be a bit of an artist and artisan hotspot so you’ll find the cutest art galleries and boutiques dotted throughout the town.

From interior design stores to ceramics and clothing, stroll through the shops and enjoy the amazing stores.

Some of the best stores in Deia that you can’t miss are 

• Obsolete Deia, a lovely design store with a few gems
• De Monio a adorable ceramic boutique that’s also a cafe
• Datura Studio Isla a clothing boutique
•  Ceramics by Joanna for lovely, Mallorca-inspired ceramics
•  Gres Gallery for aesthetic store with more fine art pieces

Best Deia Mallorca restaurants: Where to Eat in Deia Mallorca

Sure you can grab groceries for a picnic or whip up breakfast in your vacation rental, but with so many superb eateries utilizing the region’s phenomenal produce, you’d be remiss not to dine out in Deià multiple times.

Seaside spots like Ca’s Patro March and Clifftop Mirador de Sa Foradada Restaurant prepare the freshest catches and paellas.

In town, reserved experiences at Sebastian and El Olivo approach seasonal ingredients with care and creativity. Wherever you go, seafood, savory Iberico ham, Manchego cheese, and Mallorquin breads frequently appear alongside local wines.

Must Try Restaurants in Deià Mallorca: Deia Restaurants 

El Olivo

The two-Michelin-starred El Olivo restaurant at Belmond La Residencia hotel is celebrated as one of Mallorca’s premier fine dining experiences, thanks to a seasonal tasting menu showcasing Mediterranean cuisine prepared with precision and creativity. The setting proves equally stunning, whether on the expansive terrace framed by Tramuntana peaks or inside among arched stone walls flickering with candlelight.

Helpful Tips for Dining at El Olivo:

• Make reservations up to 6 months in advance due to very limited seating (It’s currently only open to guests staying at the hotel) 
• Request a patio table at sunset for unforgettable views
• Come dressed smartly – men should wear trousers and closed-toe shoes
• Allow 2-3 hours for dinner
• Sommeliers happily accommodate preferences for food pairings

Address: El Olivo Restaurant
Belmond La Residencia Hotel Son Canals s/n, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, Spain +34 971 639 011

Cocktails and Lunch at Café Miró next to (El Olivio)

Ca’s Patro March 

Family-owned since 1954, the menu emphasizes traditional recipes passed down generations while adapting to modern techniques and accents. Grilled fish and shellfish shine, especially lobster and king prawns. Octopus carpaccio, razor clams and soft-shell crab offer twists on classics. Dine beneath shady bay laurel trees mere feet from where boats deliver each day’s haul.
Address – Carrer de la Cala, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, Spain Hours – 1PM–11PM. Closed Wednesdays.

Nama – Innovative Asian Fusion Cuisine

Year after year, Nama remains a top dining recommendation in Deià for its creativity blending South East Asian flavors into Mediterranean preparations utilizing the finest local ingredients. Intimate yet lively, the restored stone house accommodates guests on multiple terraces layered like rice paddies overlooking mountains and village rooftops.

You’ll find diverse dishes expertly seasoned with spices like ginger, lemongrass and red curry. Standouts include pad thai with jumbo shrimp, massaman curry with duck confit, yellow coconut rice with crispy vegetables, and Balinese tuna satay. Round out the experience by sampling unique craft cocktails or an impressive array of sakes and Japanese whiskies.

Helpful Review: “We were completely blown away by the amazing and beautifully presented food and fantastic service. Hands down one of our best meals in Mallorca in a magical setting.”

Nama Deià Carrer de Sant Josep 8, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears +34 971 639 197 https://namadeia.com

The combination of knockout views and Pan-Asian fare executed perfectly establishes Nama as a can’t miss destination for a memorable dinner in idyllic Deià. Visiting this family-owned labor of love feels like a privilege. Be sure to book your table in advance online before making the trip.

Mirador Sa Foradada Restaurant

 Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the protected peninsula that lends it name, queues often form to secure patio seating for legendary sunsets. The kitchen melds global inspiration into shareable small plates great for sampling with a crisp Balearic white like Macabeo or Prensal Blanc. Must trys include lobster ravioli, beef tenderloin with foie gras and cheesecake with fresh figs.
Address – Finca Son Marroig s/n, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, Spain Hours: 12:30–4PM, 7–10PM. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Sebastian Restaurant

Dining in this converted stable adorned with stone arches feels intimate yet lively. Extensive wine cellar provides ideal pairings with artistically plated contemporary dishes that fuse Spanish, French and Asian elements. Reservations are essential to indulge in seared tuna with black quinoa tabbouleh, suckling pig with apple compote or other exquisite plates.
Address – Carrer de Felip Bauzà 2, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, Spain Hours: 7–10:30PM. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Deia Mallorca history 

Humans have occupied Deià’s steep valley for thousands of years, with early settlers dwelling in hillside caves. The Moors left their mark through irrigation systems still utilized today.

Most intriguing are the trio of 13th century Roman Catholic monasteries erected after the Reconquista: Ca L’Abat, Son Rul.lan and Miramar. The latter also housed a missionary school founded by prominent philosopher Ramón Llull.

Additionally, an Austrian nobleman named Archduke Lluis Salvador arrived in 1867 intent on studying the Balearics. He purchased considerable Deià property to prevent deforestation and overhunting in the habitat he so cherished.

The Archduke created walking paths with incredible lookouts that you can still follow today. Other remnants of his legacy include the palace of Son Marroig and Miramar monastery chapel ruins.

Getting to these well-preserved relics often involves scenic hikes through the Tramuntana Mountains. If tackling routes spanning several miles sounds too daunting, simply roaming Deià’s postcard-perfect stone streets offers glimpses into the past.

Sites bearing the Archduke’s insignia prominently display the village’s heritage. Beyond the physical structures though, multigenerational locals working the land and operating small businesses sustain age-old traditions.

Top Historical Attractions in Deià, Mallorca

Site	Highlights	Driving Directions	Walking Route
Son Marroig	Palace and museum with Archduke’s artifacts	Coast road btwn Deià & Valldemossa	1.2 mi/2 km from Deià center
Miramar Monastery	Ramón Llull’s chapel remains with sea views	Off Deià-Valldemossa road	Part of 7.5 mi/12 km Sa Foradada loop
Ca L’Abat Monastery	Symbols depicted on village shield	In Deià village	Central location

Deia Mallorca History:  Artists and celebrities Have Flocked to deia Mallorca for Decades

English war poet Robert Graves first visited Deià in 1932 seeking a quiet refuge to recover from the emotional trauma of battle. While initially settling elsewhere after the Spanish Civil War, he returned to the pastoral village in 1946 and remained until passing in 1985. Graves wrote prolifically during this period, drawing members of literary and theater circles to visit his unconventional artist’s home Can Alluny, now a museum.

Other creative luminaries heavily inspired by the region’s raw natural splendor and tranquility include:

• Painter and archaeologist William Waldren, founder of the Deià Archaeological Museum
• Beloved German poet and novelist Christine Lavant, whose ashes were scattered near Miramar Monastery per her wishes
• The island’s foremost impressionist painter Santiago Rusiñol
• Acclaimed author Robert Henriques, who penned multiple books while residing here

That allure endures today for the roughly 400 expats calling Deià home among 850 total villagers.

Contemporary creatives showcase work in town hall exhibitions and the boutiques lining central streets. Celebrities Deia Mallorca homeowners  include Michael Douglas, Andrew Lloyd Weber, model Elle Macpherson and other familiar faces who cherish the privacy Deià affords.

Famous Artists & Writers Associated with Deià Mallorca

Name	Profession	Connection	Major Works
Robert Graves	Poet & Novelist	Lived in Deià 1934-36 & 1946-85	I, Claudius; The Greek Myths; Goodbye to All That
Laura Riding	Poet	Robert Graves’ lover & writing partner	Progress of Stories; Lives of Wives
Santiago Rusiñol	Painter	Painted landscape near Deià	Jardins d’Espanya; The Gardens of Aranjuez
William Waldren	Painter & Archaeologist	Founded Deià Archaeological Museum	Excavated Talayotic site Son Ferrandell-Oleza

What famous people live in Deia spain?

Here are some of the famous celebrities known to own homes or frequently visit the village of Deià on Mallorca:

Deià Celebrity Sightings

Andrew Lloyd Webber The legendary Broadway composer owns a home in Deià and has written portions of iconic musicals like “Evita”, “Cats”, and “Phantom of the Opera” while in residence.

Elle Macpherson Australian supermodel Elle Macpherson owns several properties in Deià and is regularly spotted around town or lounging at a beach club with her two sons.

Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones The Hollywood power couple own and frequently vacation at a luxurious 50-acre estate just outside Deià overlooking the sea.

Leonardo Dicaprio While Leo doesn’t own property in Deià, he does visit often to enjoy dining at his favorite restaurant El Olivo at least once a summer.

Robert Graves The eminent English poet is the most famous long term resident from 1929 until his death in 1985. His home is now a museum honoring his storied writing career and unconventional lifestyle in the remote village.

In addition to property owners, Deià has attracted generations of musical icons seeking an inspiring oasis. These legends likely found time for songwriting amid the gorgeous landscape:

• The Beatles
• The Rolling Stones
• Jimi Hendrix
• David Bowie
• Mike Oldfield

Deià’s rare blend of privacy and natural beauty seems specially formulated to stimulate creativity. Expect more iconic works still to be penned from behind its tranquil façade.