One of the best spots on Mallorca, Deia is a small coastal village on the northern ridge of Mallorca which has retained its historic charm and picturesque beauty. Its idyllic landscapes of orange and olive groves on steep cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean served as refuge to English poet, novelist and scholar Robert Graves who lived there until his death, using the town as the setting for many of his stories, including the historical novel Hercules my Shipmate.

Taking its name from the Arabic word ‘Ad-daia' which means hamlet, Deia is today a second home to many stars including Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta Jones, Richard Branson, Kevin Ayers, Daevid Allen and Mick Jagger, sheer testament to the natural beauty of this village.


Accented by the Tramuntana Mountains in the background, Deia, topped by its ancient church Sant Joan Bautista, is perched on a hill surrounded by slopes cultivated by the Moors for wine and olive production. Within Deia itself, there is an abundance of eateries and there is a very unique Archeological Museum housed in an old converted mill. To reach the parish church  where Robert Graves is buried, make your way uphill on Carrer es Puig. Those interested in a scenic walk may choose to trek down through olive groves to Cala de Deia, an attractive cove where fishermen still casts their nets at dawn.

Coaches are not allowed to stop in Deia, and for those intending to drive, please know that parking is very limited.



Recommended Books

Wild Olives: Life in Majorca with Robert Graves

Majorca Paradise Not Lost: Living the dream on a Spanish island For two unforgettable years, writer Chuck Maisel and aspiring painter Carroll Graham lived the dream of a lifetime. Living in a timeless village on the Mediterranean island of Majorca, the two friends discover that fantasy can truly become reality. In this charming memoir, Chuck recalls the high humor and deep profundity of daily life on a foreign island, the heart-swelling beauty of place and people, and the wonderful events that brought him maturity, wisdom, joy, and eternal memories. Meet a captivating cast of characters that includes famous authors, painters, and a movie actress.

Houses and Palaces of Majorca