The charming small town of Capdepera is located in the northeast of Mallorca and stands out for an attractive combination of history, tradition, culture, and nature. Its magnificent location and its typically Mallorcan picturesque ambiance make it an ideal destination for trips and excursions.
The proximity to the tourist town of Cala Ratjada attracts numerous visitors, who mainly come to see the fortifications of the Castell de Capdepera. This 14th-century castle towers over the town on the Puig de Capdepera hill.
Located on the coastal plain of Llevant, the eponymous municipality includes both sandy beaches and an impressive rugged coastline. Just behind Capdepera, gently rolling, densely wooded hills rise up. Picturesque houses and winding alleys characterize the town’s landscape.
Map and Location
The city of Capdepera is located about seven kilometers from Artà and about 70 kilometers from Palma. It is situated in the northeast of Mallorca on the Artà peninsula. From Palma, the journey via the MA-10 takes a little over an hour by car.
The municipality of Capdepera includes, among others, the well-known dream beaches of Cala Ratjada, Cala Gat, Canyamel, and Font de Sa Cala. The popular tourist destination of Cala Ratjada is also very nearby.
The Puig de Son Jordi, standing at 316 meters high, marks the border with the neighboring municipality to the southwest, Son Servera.
History and Culture
Capdepera has a long and rich history. As early as the Bronze Age, the first settlements were established in the region. However, it was during the Middle Ages that Capdepera gained greater significance.
In 1231, King Jaume I signed the Treaty of Capdepera here with the Muslims of Menorca to ensure their submission. In the 14th century, Jaume II, son of Jaume I, founded the city of Capdepera as a fortified settlement to control the strategically important region and protect the population from pirate attacks.
The heart of the city, the Castell de Capdepera, was built on a hill and served for centuries as a fortress to protect the inhabitants. As is often the case, it was later also used for military purposes.
In the 19th century, the Castell lost its significance and was eventually abandoned. It wasn’t until the 1980s that it became municipal property again and was restored. Today, the Castell is an important cultural heritage site and one of the main attractions of the region.
About the Municipality of Capdepera
Capdepera, including all its localities, has a total population of about 12,000. The small village itself is home to about 3,000 residents. The distance to the coast is just a few kilometers, allowing for breathtaking sea views. Despite being in a well-developed tourist region, it has managed to maintain its authentic character.
It could be said that, although the city with its fortress is surrounded by tourists, it has not yet been conquered. Many tourists in the area prefer to spend their days at the beach or enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the neighboring town. For many others, the distance is simply too great.
Pero una visita vale la pena. Aquí, los habitantes todavía disfrutan de la tranquilidad, y aunque Capdepera tiene oficialmente el estatus de pequeña ciudad, la atmósfera se asemeja más a la de un tranquilo pueblo. Esto también se debe a los antiguos edificios, como la iglesia de San Juan, también conocida como Sant Joan.
Places of Interest in Capdepera and its Surroundings
The Medieval Castle Castell de Capdepera
The Capdepera Castle is a 14th-century fortress of great cultural and historical significance. It is one of the best-preserved castles on the island and is located on the 159-meter-high hill, Puig de Capdepera.
It’s worth visiting the fortress with the Church of Our Lady of Hope. Every stone has a story to tell. From the fortress, the distant view is simply spectacular, and the kids will feel like knights or pirates on the ancient walls.
Capdepera Lighthouse
The Capdepera Lighthouse, almost entirely white, rises more than 70 meters above sea level. On clear days, the neighboring island of Menorca can be seen from here. The tower was built in 1861 and remains in operation.
Located at the tip of the Punta de Capdepera peninsula, the lighthouse marks the easternmost point of the island. It is a perfect place to enjoy the sunrise and the sea view in tranquility.
Old Town of Capdepera
The old town of Capdepera is ideal for a leisurely stroll. It consists of a charming and romantic maze of small streets and alleyways.
The beautiful natural stone houses with their balconies and colorful flowers invite you to stop, admire, and photograph them. It is evident at all times that the residents of the city highly value preserving the traditional and authentic atmosphere of Capdepera.
For me, each visit to the old town and the Castell de Capdepera feels like a little journey into the past or history.
Por cierto, para ver los edificios de Capdepera con su arquitectura mediterránea, no es necesario disponer de un coche. Todo en la ciudad es fácilmente accesible a pie. Solo el camino cuesta arriba hacia el castillo requiere un poco más de esfuerzo.
Beaches and coves near Capdepera
Those looking to sunbathe, swim, snorkel, or simply relax in the Capdepera area will quickly find the perfect spot on this picturesque stretch of coast. Especially around Cala Ratjada, the selection of beautiful coves and beaches is vast.
Whether it’s Cala Agulla, Cala Mesquida, Canyamel, Sa Font de Sa Cala, or the small yet charming Cala Gat, just a few minutes’ walk from the port of Cala Ratjada, the beaches in this part of the island truly leave nothing to be desired.
On our summary page, you will find more beaches and coves in the municipality of Capdepera.
Activities and Tours in Capdepera
Tower of Canyamel
The Tower of Canyamel is located about four kilometers southwest of Capdepera in the Canyamel Valley (known as the Sugar Cane Valley) and dates back to the 13th century. It was built after the conquest of the island of Mallorca by King Jaume I. Today, the old defense tower houses a small museum. Events with prominent artists are also held there. My favorite moment was an intimate concert by Buika two years ago.
Llevant Natural Park
The paradisiacal Llevant Natural Park is also located in the north of Mallorca and surrounds the area of Capdepera. It can be explored via 13 beautiful trails that delight with rich flora and fauna. The park covers an area of over 1,670 hectares.
Caves of Artà
The Caves of Artà are an impressive cave system located high above the sea at Cap Vermell, near Capdepera. Originally used as dwellings and later as a hideout for pirates and Moorish soldiers, today the caves attract visitors with their stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Access is only through guided tours that last about 40 minutes. During the tour, visitors are taken into a fascinating underground world. It is important to note that there are many stairs, so the tour is not recommended for people with reduced mobility or families with baby strollers.
Hiking to Talaia de Son Jaumell
El Talaia de Son Jaumell, also known as the Tower of Son Jaumell, is a historic watchtower on the coast of Mallorca, north of Capdepera. Today, only a ruin remains, but the short walk from Cala Agulla is worth it, as the views are sensational.
From the starting point at the Cala Agulla parking lot, the path first follows along Cala Moltó, through the forest. After a few minutes, you reach a wooden gate where the hiking trail begins. The climb to the viewpoint is on a well-marked trail. The distance is 5.5 kilometers, and you should plan for a round trip of about 1.5 to 2 hours.
One of the best golf courses in Mallorca
Although there are several golf courses on the island, the 18-hole Capdepera Golf course stands out for its particularly appealing atmosphere. Located in the Sierra de Llevant, it attracts not only residents but also affluent tourists. Players with a green fee are welcome.
Restaurants and Local Specialties
Majorcan local cuisine is characterized by an incredible variety of dishes. It’s also worth visiting one or another restaurant in Capdepera. These three restaurants are highly recommended.
Restaurant La Fragua
Cozy atmosphere with views of the Castell
The restaurant La Fragua offers excellent Italo-Mediterranean cuisine. It’s located near the castle and features a charming rooftop terrace. A highlight, especially at night, when the castle is illuminated.
NouSegle12
Centrally located with a varied menu
The restaurant NouSegle 12 is located in the center of Capdepera and offers a cozy atmosphere with a shaded outdoor area. The menu is diverse, ranging from traditional tapas and pa amb oli to salads, burgers, and pizzas. Prices are moderate, and there’s a good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Cova Negra
Elegant restaurant with hotel
The Cova Negra restaurant opened in 2019 along with the Hotel Creu de Tau. It offers hotel guests and visitors high-end Mediterranean cuisine. The atmosphere is elegant, and the view of the mountain of the same name “Cova Negra” from the terrace is a true spectacle, especially at sunset.
Market and Festivities en Capdepera
Every Wednesday from 08:00 to 13:00, a lively weekly market is held in Capdepera. It’s located in Plaza de l’Orient and in the charming alleys surrounding the square.
The highlight of the year is the Medieval Market at the castle and in the city, which takes place on the third weekend of May. The area around Castell de Capdepera becomes a stage for theatrical, circus, and dance performances. In addition, visitors can enjoy jugglers, artisans, and medieval music. The ambiance of the traditional village is perfect for an event of this kind!
A City Worth Seeing for its Tradition, Culture and History
Whether you’re coming from Palma to Capdepera or staying somewhere nearby, like Cala Ratjada, it’s worth taking a trip to this picturesque town. The charming image of the village and the impressive Castell de Capdepera are reasons enough to visit. The attractive hiking trails and nearby beaches complete the picture. Capdepera is undoubtedly one of the highlights of northeastern Mallorca.
Places near Capdepera
2,6 km
7,5 km
11 km
25 km
32 km
