The Most Beautiful Village In Spain – Fornalutx, Mallorca

An idyllic mountain village sprawled in the mountain range of the Serra de Tramuntana is precisely what you can expect when you visit Fornalutx. The spectacular views from the village are what dreams are made of.

When I was informed of this village that has claimed the title of ‘The most beautiful village in Spain‘ on two separate awards occasions, I knew I must see it for myself.

It is located very near to the town of Sollér on the west coast of the island. To reach Sollér from Palma you can drive or take a bus. I took the 40 minute bus ride which came to a total of €5.40 return trip, as I intended to walk from Sollér to Fornalutx. To reach Fornalutx you can also drive, however there is limited parking in the village, so in the high season this could be a problem. You can take a bus, or like I did, enjoy the beautiful 40 minute scenic trek from Sollèr. The scenery along the journey is in a sense – mindblowing. The picturesque landscape makes one feel as though you are walking through a real life painting.

The trails are very early marked so you will not get lost on the journey.

As I approached Fornalutx, the small village of 700 inhabitants that was sprawling down the mountainside looking so perfectly nestled between the mountains, I could not help but feel in complete awe.

I was surrounded by the many orange and lemon trees and the blossoming almond trees. It was pure magic.

The history of Fornalutx beginnings dates back to over 1000 years, to a time when it was an Arab farmstead. The gothic church in the village dates back to 1639. The villages architecture from the 13th century after the Catalan conquests has remained virtually unspoilt and is also why the village is known as an architectural jewel. At one time Fornalutx was actually a part of Sollèr, however in 1837 the village gained its independence.

Once you enter the village you will be welcomed by narrow winding streets, stone houses and the most beautiful stone steps.

The square known as Plaza de España has a couple of cafes, a small food store and a bakery. It is a great spot to just relax in the tranquil atmosphere. This is a small village however there are a good handful of restaurants to choose from. They range from local Mallorcan cuisine to Italian and Indian.

Fornalutx is also a great starting point for many exceptional hikes. It is right on the flanks of the Puig Major, which is the highest mountain on the island with an altitude of 1,445 meters. I did partake in a short 1 hour hike up a trail which brought to me an incredible view of the mountains and valley. The trails are easy to use as they are more like steps and very easy to navigate as they are also all marked.

After my hike, I sat on the terrace at the restaurant Ca N’Antuna where there was the most incredible view. It was the terrace that caught my eye as I was passing by and inclined me to go and bask on it. I did not actually eat here, I just enjoyed a nice cold caña. However, the menu boasted plenty of Mallorcan dishes and I was told they make an incredible paella.

I would absolutely set a whole day aside to come and enjoy the history, architecture, hiking and then finish it off with some local cuisine on a stunning terrace taking the unforgettable view. This whole experience had such a romantic feel. With a good selection of hotels for such a small destination, it makes for a great place to book a romantic getaway.

After visiting Fornalutx, I can absolutely see why it has won the title of ‘The Most Beautiful Village In Spain‘ on two different occasions. It is small on size and very big in beauty. An absolute bucket list must if you are visiting the island.