Fornalutx
Fornalutx is an enchanting town of cobbled streets and tidy green-shuttered stone houses in a glorious mountain setting. It’s a delightful place for a casual stroll, though some of the side streets can be a bit of a climb. It’s a lovely walk here from Sóller. Towering over the busy town square and up a steep flight of steps is the pristine parish church. The facade dates back to 1613 and most of the baroque interior is from the 17th and 18th centuries, though the sacristy treasures a 14th-15th-century virgin, the Mare de Déu de la Neu.
History
The abundance of water in the area means that humans have inhabited the area of Fornalutx since prehistoric and Roman times. In the Islamic period, fruit and olive oil production were already important and the local population held out against the Christian invaders in their mountain redoubt for three years after the conquest of Palma, in 1229. Population fluctuated throughout the Middle Ages and fell sharply at the end of the 19th century when the orange crop was wiped out by plague. Since the mid-1970s the number of inhabitants has been growing, thanks chiefly to the influx of foreigners.
The only thing to do is sit back and have a drink or two in the quaint square. Alternatively, take a walk to the town’s pretty cemetery.
After strolling about for 20 minutes or so, the only thing to do is sit back and have a drink or two in the quaint square. Alternatively, take a walk to the town’s pretty cemetery. Though not as spectacular as Sóller’s, it’s still a very agreeable spot.
Eating and drinking.
The square may be a lovely spot for a drink but the tapas and sandwiches in many of the bars leave much to be desired. So, sip a drink or two by all means, but for lunch or supper, head for one of the fine restaurants just off the square. Café Med serves up excellent local fare with a twist, new kid on the block Molón is garnering rave reviews, while on the road out of town and overlooking the valley are the well-regarded Es Turo and Ca n’Antuna, specialising in hearty Mallorcan dishes.
Shopping
This is a town of some 700 people – be grateful for the grocery / newsagent and the odd trinket store.
Fiestas
The biggest festivity of the year falls on September 8, on the occasion of the birth of the Virgin. And locals celebrate it with the Correbou, or running of the bull, the only such event in Mallorca.
Transport
Fornalutx is linked by an infrequent bus service to Sóller.
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