Updated January 2024
The coastal village of Deia sits nestled between the sea and the dramatic Tramuntana mountain range. Situated on the northwest coast of Mallorca at the foot of the Teix mountain, there is something magical about this village and it has long been an inspiration for artists, writers and rock gods. As Richard Branson said it is “one of the most beautiful villages in the world”.
Deia (also known as Deya) is a well-heeled bohemian place where the picturesque cobbled streets are home to top-notch restaurants as well as relaxed cafes and bars. Once you land in laid-back Deia there is no reason to move other than to discover the further delights of the surrounding mountains and coast.
Things to do in Deia
With such stunning scenery all around, this mountain village is a place for relaxing and taking in the view from a sun lounger, café terrace, or just on an amble through the cobbled streets.
The picturesque village with honey stone houses and breathtaking views is definitely worth meandering through, There is a main street that leads to the picture postcard church where the poet Robert Graves is buried. To discover more about the interesting life of the English war poet, you can visit his museum and former home.
Another low-key museum to visit is Son Marroig. It was once part of Archduke Lluis Salvador’s sprawling estate, and this stunning retreat now houses a museum about his life.
For more history, a converted mill in the village is home to the Deià Archeological Museum and Research centre.
The beach at Deia
Tucked just beneath the village of Deia is the magical Cala Deia – a picturesque shingle cove set in a dramatic setting, where the clear waters lap the stones. It is reachable on foot, by car or boat. Make sure you have lunch at the rustic restaurant C’as Patro March which perches in the water. This informal place serves up delicious fresh fish and tapas. It is so picture postcard, it was used as a location for ‘The Night Manager’ series.
Restaurants and cafes in Deia
With such an eclectic array of fabulous restaurants, Deia is a perfect place for foodie fans.
A must is the Michelin star Es Raco D’es Teix, with gorgeous food and equally stunning views. Another firm favourite is Sebastian’s. A former stable has been converted to create a stylish spot with excellent food. As always in Deia, there’s also an amazing view.
Restaurant Son Marriog sits at the entrance to the beautiful house of the same name. It is just a few miles from Deia and it has some of the best sea views around. Perch on the terrace and enjoy watching the sun go down.
The restaurants at the beautiful five-star Belmond La Residencia Hotel are renowned. With top-notch food and stunning views from its cobbled terrace, lunch at Café Miro is a particularly enchanting spot.
If you’re after traditional tapas then El Barrigon Xelini is a great place in the middle of Deia, complete with a picturesque terrace. Whilst, if you’re looking for delicious local produce and treats to sustain you on a hike, head to the village’s grocery shop Es Forn.
We also love an early or late drink at the very authentic and unpolished Sa Fonda bar, where locals gather to socialise, enjoy live music and play chess. Also good for some celeb spotting, as many own fabulous homes nearby!
Walking and hiking in Deia
When you need to change gear from all that relaxing and dining, then this is a great area to pull on your walking boots and head into the stunning surrounding scenery (with well-signposted trails).
Deia and its adjacent countryside have many well-established paths with stunning viewpoints looking across the mountains and sea. These routes were created by a member of the Austrian nobility, Archduke Lluis Salvador in the 19th century.
Amongst the picturesque landscapes and well-marked hiking routes, you can find a range of easy to challenging walks. With the mountain Teix looming nearby there is some invigorating hiking to be done if you like a challenge. As the Serra de Tramuntana mountains have World Heritage Site status, there are beautiful views on whichever route you choose. A couple of our favourite routes include Miramar Monastery and Sa Foradada – a stunning peninsula complete with a lookout point and café (in season).
Hotels in Deia – best places to stay
For something rather special, stay at the luxurious Belmond La Residencia hotel, once owned by Richard Branson and still a favoured spot for the rich and famous. Now owned by the Belmond group, the hotel is deserving of its reputation as one of the best hotels in the world. It offers glamourous old-world charm, breathtaking views, superb restaurants, and spa facilities to satisfy Hollywood A-listers.
For breathtaking sea and coastal views, it doesn’t get much better than the beautiful boutique Sa Pedrissa Hotel. Perched overlooking Cala Deia, this former residence of Archduke Louis Salvador of Austria is now a serene adult-only hotel. If you’re looking for pure luxury, opt for a Grand Suite with private pool. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Surprisingly good value and with charm and an excellent pool right in the heart of Deia is the pretty S’Hotel des Puig. If you’re looking for self-catering, this hotel also has apartments, with the added benefit of use of the hotel’s pool.
Exploring around Deia
If you fancy exploring the region, Deia is close to the other picturesque towns and villages of the Tramuntana mountains. The coast road takes you to the quaint, bustling old town of Soller and the scenic Port de Soller – complete with an arc of beach and bobbing boats. In the other direction, heading inland towards Palma, you will find the picturesque town of Valldemossa and its Real Cartuja monastery.
Read more about Deia and places to stay>>