A paradise for walkers and nature lovers

Who says that an island like Mallorca can be visited only in the summer or just during the warm weather season? You can come to see this beautiful corner of heaven every time your heart desires. While we are in the middle of the autumn season, people tend to think that beach activities are over and this is far to be true. So, let’s start with a pretty village which is located 14 km (9 miles) to the southeast of Mallorca. The municipality of Vilafranca de Bonany lies approximately 20 km to the west of the industrial town of Manacor, on the main road from Palma and is situated in the central Es Pla district of the island. Statistics taken from the Consell de Mallorca show that the population of the area has slowly been expanding although of these less than 500 are recorded as being non Spanish residents.

The community here is a very rural one and is most well known for its melons and brickworks, although it also grows an assortment of other dry-irrigation crops and has done so for thousands of years. The landscape of the area is very flat and the economy of the village is still largely derived from agriculture. As you drive through the village you will often see vegetables hanging outside some of the shops, such as aubergines, tomatoes, garlic and peppers.

Vilafranca is known for its honeydew melons, whose harvest is celebrated with a large melon festival each September. The other reason for coming here, apart from food is to visit Els Calderers, a manor house between Vilafranca and Sant Joan. This was once at the centre of a great wine estate but like so many others it fell victim to the phylloxera disease. Reopened in 1993, the 18th-century house is now a museum of Mallorcan furniture and traditions; you can visit the wine cellar, granary, bakery, chapel and wash-house as well as wander around the main house with its paintings, guns and toys. Many of Mallorca Island’s key attractions are within easy reach from this precious village making it a popular place to stay or visit on a day trip because the weather is still warm and the sun friendly.

 

Two attractions that should top every visitor’s list is the fascinating Cala Varques and the much-loved Cala Domingo Beach. Even if the season is off, you can enjoy the beauty of this two stunning beaches and also you can make some cool photos. Two other popular spots that are located close by Vilafranca de Bonany are the Caves of Drach and the Golf Son Gual. To make the most of Vilafranca de Bonany, consider booking your accommodation at one of the area’s many options. If you’re looking for a warm welcome and a good night sleep check out the Hotel Mediodia, Playa de Palma, the Hotel Playa Golf, Playa de Palma or the popular Hotel Hispania, Playa de Palma. This is still very much a traditional Mallorcan town with a strong rural heritage and with so much hotel options in the area, the town is very popular. Those who do wish to stay here will find out what a perfect holiday looks like.