The gardens of Alfabia (Jardins d’Alfàbia), are located in a valley at the end of Bunyola in the southwest of the Tramuntana mountain range, under the Coll de Sóller.
Their location in the centre of Majorca has given them a romanticism, personality and character that only the passing of time can achieve.
This property of the 12th century is said that belonged to a rich Arab: Benhabet, who lived there until the Catalan conquest of Majorca.
In this old Arabic farmhouse, the water is unquestionably the prominent feature of the garden, finding it in cascades, wells and other fountains.
One of these is a pergola of 72 columns and 24 stone jets that cross the water to each other obtaining a matchless brightness and freshness.
The Muslim culture is not only reflected in the importance of the water but also emphasised by the type of trees, flowers and plants, like lemon and orange trees.
These are the main features of the Jardins d’Alfabia and most rural gardens in Majorca and manage to create a very intimate atmosphere.
The Jardins d’Alfabia were declared historical-artistic gardens of Majorca in 1954, the gardens pick up different styles like Arab, Italian or English with a common component: the water games with cascades, wells, springs and pools.
This property is open to visitors, giving access to different rooms of the house and the most distinguished gardens in Majorca.
The opportunity should be taken to view the:
- main facade of baroque style and the caisson ceiling with Arab inscriptions from the 13th-century
- great cloister, dominated by the imposing presence of the 20-meter diameter fountain and an approximated antiquity of 100 years.
- rows of balconies with views of the gardens are also remarkable.
- library with numerous works from the 16th to 18th centuries.
- old picture and furniture collection, in which it is emphasised a great wood chair of the 14th century.
Alfabia Visitor Information
Directions: Carretera Palma-Sóller (Ma-11) Km. 17-18 (between the Restaurant Ses Porxeres and the Tunnel of Soller)
Telephone: +34 971613123
Visiting Hours:
From 1st of April to 31st of October: Monday to Saturday – 09:30 to 18:30
From 1st of November to 31st of March: Monday to Friday – 09:30 to 17:30, and Saturday -09:30 to 13:00.
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Mark Kaye is a travel writer and content creator living in Majorca, Spain. Originally from the UK, Mark moved to the island and quickly fell in love with Majorcan culture, food, and scenic landscapes. When he’s not busy writing detailed guides about Majorca’s top tourist attractions and hidden local gems, you can find him out exploring coastal trails or wandering the streets of Palma’s Old Town in search of his next great restaurant discovery.
