Andratx

Andratx is an ancient Mallorcan town nestled in the valleys of the Tramuntana Mountain range and is home to one of Mallorca’s most interesting modern art galleries. Its quaint, narrow streets and rustic heritage make it a truly authentic place to visit – with a warm welcome for international visitors.

The stunning location of Andratx on the south-west tip of Mallorca has inspired artists and writers and attracted a number of famous residents. It consists of a tightly packed town-centre of rambling streets with reminders of the past on every corner. The sprawling outlying farmlands include a combination of luxury homes and working farms which grow a feast of fresh local products. Andratx is also an ideal base to explore some of Mallorca’s most beautiful south west locations.

Many new visitors are confused because of the nearby port with the same name which is on the coast. Andratx Town is not the same place and is set further inland.

History and Culture

Andratx town was established before the invasion of the Romans in the 2nd century BC who called it Andrachium. Coins, pottery and other artefacts have been found which date to this period.

Andratx was built inland due to frequent attacks from Barbary Pirates which eventually led to the construction of 14 watch towers in the 16th century – 12 of which still remain. Until the 20th century influx of overseas residents, Andratx was largely a quiet rural community – it now has a lively international mix of residents. It is very traditional and mainly offers a good range of basic local amenities, but luxury shopping and cuisine are close at hand.

The area is well-known for production of local crops such as oranges, almonds, olives and grapes.

Andratx was made famous in the series of amusing books written by Peter Kerr, whose family used to own an orange farm in the countryside outside Andratx. British TV presenter Selina Scott also wrote her book A Long Walk in the High Hills based on her experiences of the area and John Noakes, of the BBC children’s magazine programme Blue Peter, lives here.

Major attractions in Andratx

If you feel like a little art and culture why not visit nearby CCA Andratx cultural centre? This is a superb location to see some of the island’s best contemporary art, with several exhibition spaces, a good café, tasteful gift shop and impressive grounds behind the building itself.

History buffs might also enjoy the nearby churches of Santa Maria de Andratx, Church of s’Arracó, the Castell de Son Mas (now the City Hall) or the ruins of a former Trappist monastery La Trappa.

The nature surrounding Andratx is breath-taking; many visitors come to this part of Mallorca just to enjoy the mountains, valleys, forest and coastal scenery.

Shopping – Andratx is great for fresh produce and local basics. If you prefer a more luxury shopping experience the nearby Port Andratx plays host to a wide range of fashion, art and gift shops.

Things to do in Andratx

A lively local market takes place on Wednesday mornings. On Sunday mornings there is a fun and informal wine tasting event in Bodegas Santa Catarina and if you are looking for something more romantic and relaxing we recommend the picnic in the vineyard – a very special experience.

The famous nature resort of the Island of Dragonera is nearby and there are regular boat trips from many of the surrounding towns. There is also a challenging golf course nearby popular with the island’s glitterati.

If you feel like a day at the beach Cap de Mar is one of Mallorca’s most highly rated beaches. Also Andratx is very popular with hikers and bikers.