Islands and Nature: A Getaway to Sa Dragonera from Port d'Andratx
Off the coast of Sant Elm, a silhouette stretches across the horizon. From above, it looks like a sleeping dragon, its head resting in the sea and its back covered in green. This is Sa Dragonera — an island as mysterious as it is beautiful, where legends of pirates, lighthouse keepers, and untamed nature still linger in the air.
Just a 20-minute drive from Mon Port Hotel & Spa, the harbour of Sant Elm is the gateway to one of the most enchanting corners of southwest Mallorca. Small boats connect the mainland to the island daily during the milder months, offering a short but unforgettable journey over turquoise waters.
A Natural Park Between Legend and Sea
Declared a Natural Park in 1995, Sa Dragonera forms part of a protected archipelago alongside the small islets of des Habits and Pantaleu. The island, just four kilometres long, shelters a remarkable ecosystem: endemic lizards found nowhere else on Earth, falcons gliding through the sky, and a sea that shifts colour with every ray of light.
Its name comes from those tiny lizards, nicknamed "dragons" by local fishermen. Over the centuries, Sa Dragonera served as a refuge for smugglers, shepherds, and lighthouse keepers. Visitors can still explore the remains of the Llebeig Lighthouse and Tramuntana Lighthouse, both offering breathtaking views of the open sea.
Trails to Explore at Your Own Pace
Sa Dragonera is a hiker's paradise. The island is only accessible on foot, with well-marked paths starting from the main landing point at Es Lledó. There are four main routes, suitable for different levels:
- Camí de Tramuntana (north): gentle slopes leading to the northern lighthouse and sweeping coastal views.
- Camí de Llebeig (southwest): a longer and more challenging hike for those who love adventure.
- Camí des Coll Roig and Camí des Far Vell: shorter trails surrounded by pine forests and silence.
There are no bars, restaurants or cars here — just sea breeze, rock and sky. It's the perfect place to slow down, bring a bottle of water and a picnic, and enjoy a simple meal with a view that stretches endlessly to the horizon.
A Journey to Remember
A visit to Sa Dragonera is a glimpse into Mallorca's wild heart — a world of cliffs, sea spray and stories carried by the wind. From Mon Port Hotel & Spa, it makes for an ideal half-day excursion: a short boat ride, a peaceful hike among Mediterranean scents, and a relaxed return to Port d'Andratx for a sunset drink by the harbour.
Some say the island's shape resembles a sleeping dragon. Maybe that's why, even in its stillness, it feels alive — guarding the timeless magic of the Mediterranean.
