Magaluf Excursions: Valldemossa

You might be in love with Mallorca and particularly Magaluf’s notoriety, but do you know that Magaluf and Majorca’s affair with the taboo dates back to the 1800’s? Way back in 1838, the famed pianist Chopin and his lover, George Sand bid adieu to their homes in Paris and came to Valldemossa. Paris’ intense reaction to their illicit affair made them seek out this sanctuary. The couple also felt that Majorca’s sunny weather would help ease Chopin’s tuberculosis. But, due to winter’s adverse affects, Chopin's health declined. Like the Parisians, the locals of Majorca too disliked them. As a result, the two parties were frequently at loggerheads. The result was Sands’ novel, A Winter in Majorca. With such stirring history, the place has become a pilgrimage of sorts for Chopin-worshippers and lovers of classical music. But other than these niche tourists, Valldemossa also attracts cruise lovers who stopover on the island to enjoy its magical beauty.

When you arrive at the harbor you drive through lush olive and almond trees to reach the mountain village. Other than visiting the monastery itself, a walk through the village is a must too. It is protected by its patron saint, La Beata and all the entrances of the houses plead, “Beata, pray for us!” The village has all the trappings of a charming, unassuming community, and the monastery where Chopin and Sand took refuge is well maintained as well. Tourists throng in large numbers to see the monastery, its church as well as the cell of the doomed lovers. There’s also a charming, little pharmacy where the lotions and potions of the period have been kept intact till date. To give the inspiring evening the perfect ending, a Chopin concerto is played for tourists.

As you drive back, the scenic route by the coast will leave you fascinated by its vistas. Beautiful homes and the clear water below are simply enchanting. You might even come across the dazzling home of Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones.