Although my Seagull Range, and Dancers are by far the most popular in my collection, I also love to paint landscapes and cityscapes. Many of my favourite pieces of work are of or are inspired by the locations listed below.
Today I start with….Majorca
I chose to start with Majorca, as usually, this is the time of year when we head over there. Obviously that is not going to happen in September 2020, so a little trip down memory lane is just going to have to do for now.
We have been returning to Majorca for many years, sometimes twice a year if the budget allows. It holds a special place in my heart, and I have always had a dream of relocating there when I grow up!
Below I have written a little overview of my favourite spots (click on the location name for a hyperlink to tourist sites for each town). Please let us know if there are any hidden treasures we should be aware of because I will try to add them to my must-see list for next time.
Cala Figuera
This is a gorgeous little fishing village, set upon two inlets. Time seems to have forgotten this little beauty spot, as it remains very quaint and old-fashioned. Filled with old fishing boats and large yachts it is pretty as a picture. So, here’s one I made earlier…
Soller
This is where we like to stay when we come to visit. A clean, family-friendly and trusting town, nestled in a valley between the sea and the mountains. Catch the famous tram that runs from port to town all day and the wooden train that goes through the mountains to the centre of Palma.
This is the other side of the mountain to Soller and has the most beautiful gardens. As you come through the mountain tunnel, the Alfabia can be found on the left-hand side, at the foot of the mountain. The roses and the wisteria have the most delicious fragrance and there are fresh oranges and lemons growing all around. The colonnade has a surprising water sprinkler, fed from the mountain. This is activated by passers-by, making your walk through fun, cooling and refreshing.
A place of particular significance to me. My husband proposed to me when I was sitting on edge of the harbour wall, outside Restaurant Layn. We used to joke that I had no choice but to say yes, as he might have tipped me over the edge at the time!
Deia
A very pretty small coastal village, which seems to tumble down the side of the Tramuntana mountains. There is a beautiful church with a tiny cemetery set upon the mountain rock, many famous poets and authors are buried there. This village is home to many well-known celebrities, and it is easy to see why. It is surrounded by orange and olive groves. The shiny cobbled streets and archways lead to curious little boutiques that have been tucked away.
Valldemossa
This is a stunning town. You can visit Chopin and George Sand’s House and grounds which are now a museum and Monastery, looking towards Palma. Full of picturesque houses. Cypress trees are dotted about the valley. We took a walk up a cobbled street and turned a corner, to find 50-100 plant pots of varying sizes and colour combinations – the whole place is a real feast for your eyes.
Santanyi
We always make a beeline to Santanyi due to its’ vast market. It is at least one hours’ drive from where we stay, but is definitely worth the travel. Known as a “golden stone town,” it is ancient with tiny little narrow streets running through it. In the centre of town is the fruit and vegetable section of the market, where you will find produce available in every colour under the sun.
It can be difficult to get to the market by car, so we find it best to park on the outskirts of town and wander in. The shops, bars, and restaurants are built with beautiful courtyards at their centre. Santanyi is situated next to Cala Llombards, and many of the other famously stunning beaches of Majorca.
Pollenca
We first went to Pollenca in the late 1980s. On one visit we stayed at a place called Calla San Vincente, and the view from the beach is featured in my painting below. Pollenca is a town set upon the side of a hill. Behind the church in the central square is a large set of steps, called the El Cavaris steps, 365 in total, built by the Knights Templar. Here you will often see the street entertainers drawing in happy crowds.
