Introduction
Valldemossa is a tranquil Mallorcan village set amid olive, orange, lemons and cherry groves in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, around 10 miles inland from Palma. It was the birthplace of Catalina Thomas, ‘La Beata', the only Mallorcan saint.
This stunning mountain setting has provided inspiration to eminent writers and musicians over the years, such as the Polish composer Frédéric Chopin, who used the Carthusian monastery in the village - La Cartuja - as a retreat and referred to Valldemossa as "the most beautiful place in the world". The French novelist George Sand, who wrote A Winter in Majorca, and the Argentine poet Luis Borges are other artistic figures to have been inspired by the surroundings.
The Valldemossa Hotel, full of antique furnishings and rooms named after Chopin and other creative talents, is the village's most refined accommodation option. From its outdoor patio area and guest rooms can be savoured views across a patchwork of farms towards the monastery - which can be visited via a gentle walk through the narrow lanes of Valledemossa village, lined with flower stalls, galleries and cafes.
