In the Jardines de Alfabia in Mallorca, close to Soller, you will learn a lot about the island’s history – and you can enjoy an amazing day in the middle of a well-kept botanical garden oasis. Was there really a time on Mallorca before binge-drinking at the beach and clubbing all night on the Britishs’ and Germans’ favourite party island? Still, to many people Mallorca is the place for a perfect party vacation. Nothing wrong with that, but Mallorca has also an interesting and long history – who knew?
Jardines de Alfabia: Stepping into Mallorca’s exciting past
On my way to learn more about Mallorca’s past I found myself at the Jardines d’Alfabia – an old manor house built in the 12th century surrounded by a tropical garden. Located at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains in between of a landscape which is usually very dry during the hot Mallorquinian summers with almost no rain, the Jardines are truly a cool and relaxing oasis.
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The architecture reflects various influences of the owners who have lived here – the land has been owned by Arabs, Andalusians, Moors, Spains and many more. Due to its geographic location in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, the island of Mallorca has always been of interest for powerful European and Arabic imperors. Up to today, you will find traces of the most diverse cultures on Mallorca!
Jardines de Alfabia: The Botanical Garden
The main house and some stables can be visited – and once you are through you will arrive at the gardens. With enormously high palm trees and a well-cared, densely planted vegetation the gardens are a real sight. The blooming gardens also attract many animals and the twittering of an army of birds makes you feel like you were in an exotic forest.
The Gardens of Alfabia: A small paradise on Mallorca
And in the end, here’s the reason why I really fell in love with the Jardines de Alfabia: the donkey which lives on the property as well. Isn’t it the cutest with ist big brown eyes?
Best time to go to the Jardines de Alfabia on Mallorca
The whole area isn’t very big, you take a look at the house, wander around the gardens and enjoy the panoramic view. Perfect for spending the morning or the afternoon, until you continue your trip around the island. Or, as the historic cable car from Palma to Soller has recently opened a station near the Jardines, you can stop for a few hours at the Jardines d’Alfabia and then head to Soller.
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Information:
The Jardines d’Alfabia are located near Bunyola, right next to the entrance of the tunnel to Soller.
Good news for dog owners: Dogs are allowed in the gardens! (quite unusual for Mallorca)
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