Sant Elm & Sa Dragonera
Sant Elm (also San Telmo) is the westernmost coastal town in Mallorca — a small, sleepy village at the end of the road, where the mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana plunge directly into the sea. Here, the tourist infrastructure ends and the wilderness begins. That's exactly what makes it so appealing.
The town has a pretty sandy beach (about 100 m wide), protected by an offshore island and therefore usually offering calm waters. In summer, there is a lifeguard, sunbed rental (about 8 €), and two beach restaurants. Nothing spectacular, but pleasant and never overcrowded.
The real star is the island of Sa Dragonera, which lies like a sleeping dragon (hence the name) right off the coast. The 4-kilometer-long, uninhabited island has been a nature park since 1995 and is home to unique wildlife: the Balearic wall lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) is found only here and on a few other Balearic islands. Thousands of these tame, dark green lizards bask on the rocks — a highlight for nature lovers and photographers.
The crossing takes only 15–20 minutes with the small excursion boats that depart several times a day from Sant Elm in summer (about 14–16 € round trip). On the island, there are three marked hiking trails: to the old lighthouse Far de Tramuntana (1 hour, easy), to the middle viewpoint (30 min.), and to the lighthouse Far Vell at the top (2 hours, more challenging). The views over the sea and back to the Mallorcan coast are magnificent.
Important: On Sa Dragonera, there is no drinking water, no restaurants, and no shade on the hiking trails. Bring enough water (at least 2 liters per person), sun protection, sturdy footwear, and a picnic. The boats run about every 1–2 hours — remember the return time!
Some of Mallorca's most beautiful coastal hikes also start from Sant Elm. The path to the abandoned Trappist monastery La Trapa (about 2 hours round trip) leads through fragrant maquis vegetation with breathtaking views of Sa Dragonera. Moderately difficult, steep at the end — but the view from the monastery grounds is one of the best on the island.
💡 Tipp
The hike to the La Trapa monastery is an absolute must for hiking enthusiasts. Best to start in the morning (before 9 a.m.), when it's still cool. From the monastery, you have the perfect view of Sa Dragonera with the rising sun. Combination: hike in the morning, swim in Sant Elm at noon, cross over to Sa Dragonera by boat in the afternoon.