Excursion to the Son Real Public Estate
There is a place in Mallorca where a wide range of history and tradition comes together. It features a typical Mallorcan estate house or possessió that emulates the way of life of ancient farmers, archaeological sites that depict human presence dating back to 1900 BC, coastal watchtowers from military times, and a marvelous ecosystem for nature enthusiasts, among other attractions.
This place is the Son Real Public Estate, an estate situated in the municipality of Santa Margarita on the northwest coast of Mallorca. It spans nearly 400 hectares and boasts a privileged location, nestled in the middle of the bay of Alcudia.
It's a perfect visit to make with children at any time of the year, and from here, various excursions and walks lead to discovering all that this small treasure holds, bearing witness to the passage of time.
Excursions to be Made on the Son Real Estate
Son Real offers four marked routes for both biking and walking, each leading to a different part of the estate, allowing visitors to explore its natural and agricultural environments and its rich history.
- -The path to the pre-Talayotic settlement of Es Figueral begins near the estate's interpretation center. It's a short path that crosses the agricultural area of the estate, leading to the Talayot of Es Figueral.
- -The Camí de l'Illa des Porros and the Cas Garriguer shelter start from the left side of the Son Real houses and lead to the beach, passing through lush vegetation filled with pine trees and wild olive trees. Following this route, you'll reach the shelter, which is very close to the beach. Right by the sea, you'll find the Illot dels Porros, where a significant Talayotic site was discovered.
- -To reach the necropolis of Punta des Fenicis, you must start from the same point as the previous excursion but take a detour along a path leading to the necropolis. This site is one of the highlights of the estate, exceptionally well-preserved and strategically located by the sea. Nearby, you can also visit an ancient dolmen.
- -The path of Son Bauló connects the beach of the same name in Can Picafort with the Son Real houses. It traverses various cultivated fields and ends at the beach, alongside a promenade lined with shops and restaurants.
The Son Real Houses
Upon returning to the estate, you can visit the Son Real houses, which date back to the medieval period and represent the most traditional architecture of the island, showcasing the essence of an authentic estate or possessió: several manor houses, a courtyard, defense towers, warehouses, and a chapel.
The part known as Ses Cases Noves is one of the most extensive and where you'll find the Son Real Interpretation Center, whose visit is essential to understand the archaeological and cultural significance of this space. Children enjoy this stop because they can observe the stark contrast between contemporary city life and the traditional rural world.
Next to the building, you'll find the archaeological museum, which is also suitable for children, as workshops are often held in a dedicated area for them.
Near the estate, just as in the past, you'll find animals of native Mallorcan breeds, such as sheep, chickens, and donkeys.
It would likely take more than a day to fully explore this estate. For those who can do it in a short time, you might want to consider visiting one of the most authentic olive oil mills in Mallorca, such as the one in Can Det.
