Fornalutx is a small town located in the foothills of the Puig Mayor, northwest Soller Valley, in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana. Its particular topography -located on a mountainside – printed in a special character to this town that has made its steep, cobbled streets its biggest appeal. Such attractiveness has been awarded several times both from the autonomic standpoint – Tourism Promotion silver plate in 1983 and GOB Alzina Prize in 1995 – and from the national standpoint – Second National Award of Spanish Embellished Towns in 1983.
The special conservation of traditional Majorcan architectural style has made Fornalutx a compulsory visit for all visitors to the valley of Sóller, especially due to the proximity of this town which is just two kilometers far from Sóller and four from the Port of Sóller, northwards. Visitors to the Es Port Hotel just have to take the road to Sóller and at the first roundabout turn towards Lluc-Pollença. Within four kilometers, turn right at the sign indicating Fornalutx.
Its proximity to Sóller had as the greatest consequence the fact that the two towns were only one until 1837, when Fornalutx achieved its independence and became an autonomous municipality. The origins of Fornalutx must be placed in an old Arabic “alqueria” (farmhouse) and there is evidence of its presence since the time of the Reconquest of King James I. The origin of the place name “Fornalutx” comes from the Latin word “Fornalucem” meaning “oven near the river.”
A visit to Fornalutx is surprising not only for its architectural conservation but also for its special location among olive groves and orchards of orange and lemon trees. In fact, agricultural activity was the town’s livelihood until the massive influx of tourism began in the 1960s.
What to visit in Fornalutx
Beyond the purely aesthetic appeal, a visit to Can Xoroi stands out. It is located in 6 Sa Font Street and it is a landmark building which nowadays is the Museu de les Teules Pintades (Museum of the painted tiles) open throughout the year on Fridays and Saturdays from 10.30 to 13.30. Visiting Can Xoroi offers also the possibility to see an old “almazara” (mill): place where olive oil used to be produced.
Gastronomy in Fornalutx
Regarding gastronomy, in Fornalutx one can taste the most authentic Majorcan cuisine, especially in two emblematic restaurants in the area: Ca n’Antuna, which has been awarded the silver food Award for its outstanding work, and Es Turó. Both restaurants are located in Arbona-Colom Avenue and parking is available nearby.