The Santuari de Cura rises on Puig de Randa, at an altitude of 1,778 feet, visible from nearly every direction in Mallorca. About 25 miles from Palma, the mountain is located between the municipalities of Algaida and Llucmajor.
At the foot of the mountain lies the village of Randa, while three monasteries cling to its rocks. The Santuari de Cura, the largest of the three, is considered the second most important pilgrimage site in Mallorca after the Santuari de Lluc.
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Important Information:
- The Santuari de Cura is a historic monastery located on the Puig de Randa at an altitude of 542 meters in Mallorca.
- It is about 35 km east of the capital Palma de Mallorca and is a popular destination for pilgrims and hikers.
- From the monastery, there is an impressive view of the entire island of Mallorca.
- In addition to the church, there is a museum, a souvenir shop, a restaurant, and a 3-star hotel for accommodations.
- The monastery can be visited year-round. Details about opening hours are provided further down in the article.
Map and Location
The Santuari de Cura is located on the Puig de Randa in the center of the island, about 22 miles east of the capital Palma de Mallorca, near the town of Algaida.
The shortest route by car from Palma is via the Ma-19 motorway towards Llucmajor. After about 20 kilometers, take the exit for Algaida and follow the signs to Randa. In Randa, a winding road leads directly up to Puig de Randa, where the monastery is located. The journey takes about 40 minutes.
Advice:
It is advisable to drive cautiously on the winding road and use the designated parking areas near the monastery.
The story of a fascinating monastery
When King James I of Aragon reconquered Mallorca in 1229, several hermitages were established on the mountain. These likely constitute the origin of the Monastery of Cura. The resting cells, which were carved into the rock at that time, still bear witness to this.
Below the Santuari de Cura lies, for example, in a cave, the ancient resting place of Ramon Llull. The Majorcan Franciscan logician, philosopher, grammarian, and theologian lived for a long time on the mountain of Randa. It is said that he had mystical visions at the summit of the Puig de Randa. Even today, the cave of Ramon Llull is adorned with flowers and offerings.
In the 19th century, the monastery walls deteriorated significantly. It was not until the 20th century that the Bishop of Palma entrusted the task of restoring and revitalizing the monastery to the Mallorcan Franciscans.
Additionally, the monks constructed a guesthouse, which today operates as a hotel, a restaurant with a café, and a service building. The old cells of the monks of the Santuari de Cura were meticulously renovated, and in the former grammar room, there is now a small museum showcasing some interesting pieces of Ramon Llull.
In addition to the beautiful church of the monastery, there is a souvenir shop that invites you to explore and discover. The atmosphere of the monastery is wonderfully calm and peaceful, and the view of Mallorca from here is simply fantastic.
What does the Santuari de Cura offer today?
If you’re in the mood for a relaxing stay surrounded by nature in Mallorca, with the comfort of a tranquil environment, you’ll love the monastery. From the era of the Arab occupation, the remains of an ancient defensive tower are preserved, which can be visited.
In the picturesque garden of Cura there is a statue of St. Francis, and the chapel houses an impressive stone image of the Virgin Mary. Of course, the monastery also features a figure of Ramon Llull, located above the portal.
Accommodation at the Santuari de Cura
La Cura features a total of 33 rooms and junior suites with heating, offering very attractive and even high-level facilities. If you wish, you can book a suite with a private jacuzzi. Simpler rooms are also available.
Enjoying a spa at this height, in such a historic and elegant setting, is something very special, in my opinion. The inn stands out notably from other hotels, not only because of the magnificent views of the coast of Mallorca and the Bay of Palma, but also because of the concept it offers.
Someday, without a doubt, I will spend a night here.
Guido Veth
The service is excellent. The restaurant serves delicious local dishes, and in good weather, you can enjoy breakfast on the beautiful terrace with arches. I really enjoy spending time here to recharge or simply enjoy a bit of peace.
Certainly, the stay at the hotel in the monastery can be combined with a visit to the museum or with fantastic nature walks. The monastery is also frequently used as a venue for workshops, corporate events, and other activities.
Book at Hotel Santuari de Cura ***
Opening Hours
Church, museum, and gift shop
- Summer: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Winter: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Restaurant and café:
- In summer, every day from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Tuesdays until 4:30 p.m.)
- From December to February, the restaurant is closed.
Mass:
Sundays at 12:00 PM
My conclusion: A place of peace, history, and reflection
The Sanctuary of Cura is accessible by car, and there is free parking available on site. From Randa, there is also a pilgrimage path that leads to the summit. Cura is open year-round, and the café and restaurant close on Tuesdays in winter.
My conclusion about this place of interest: The abbey on Puig de Randa may not be the most important building in Spain, but it is certainly one of the most relaxing. I highly recommend a visit to the monastery for adults. For children, it’s probably the pilgrimage path that will appeal to them the most.
Attractions near the Sanctuary of Cura
80 m
14 km
17 km
21 km
