Isn’t Mallorca incredible? It’s surrounded by small, unspoilt islands of great beauty and one of the most special is Sa Dragonera, located to the west of Mallorca. It has even been granted the title of Natural Park to help protect its unique beauty for future generations.
The dragon-shaped silhouette is the first thing that suggests the name of Dragonera Island. It might also be related to the Latin word “Traconaria”, meaning “a fissure in the earth”, due to the freshwater break that exists in a cave on the island. Or perhaps it’s because of the abundance of native lizards of the Balearic Islands. In any case, if you’re not fond of scaly friends, you might find yourself dancing while exploring the island.
About Sa Dragonera
Sa Dragonera is a small island about 3.2 kilometres long and half a kilometre wide. It forms the Natural Park together with two small islets called Pantaleu and La Mitjana.
Its terrain is very rugged, and its highest point is Pico Popi, which rises to about 360 metres in height. The island is located near the towns of Sant Elm and Port d’Andratx, both belonging to the municipality of Andrax.
These towns are also part of the Serra de Tramuntana, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Located about 800 metres apart, they form a channel where an underwater forest exists, known as Posidonia Oceanica. Posidonia is the plant that gives the island’s waters a beautiful turquoise hue. This forest has becomea refuge for the native marine species of the Mallorcan coast.
The importance of this protected natural reserve is tremendously rich, not only because of its flora but also for its fauna, where, apart from rabbits, bats, and scorpions, the following stand out: the osprey, the peregrine falcon, Eleonora’s falcon, and the Balearic lizard (unique in its species).
History of the island of Dragonera
Sa Dragonera is an island shrouded in mystery and beauty, which has been the setting for countless stories throughout the centuries. From the discovery of an ancient necropolis, Es Lladó, suggesting it was a burial site or residence, to its strategic role in the conquest of Mallorca by James I in 1229.
During the 16th century, Sa Dragonera witnessed the construction of its watchtowers, which changed hands among nobles and adventurers, and even served as the centre of operations for smuggling in times of need. Its history is a tapestry woven with the threads of time, from the days of the Archdukes to the dark times of the Spanish Civil War.
In 1995, this piece of paradise was declared a natural park, a testament to the struggle and triumph of conservation over urbanization. Sa Dragonera is now a sanctuary for flora and fauna, a refuge for history and nature, inviting everyone to discover its secrets and wonders.
Places of interest in Sa Dragonera
Sa Dragonera stands as a historical bastion, whose buildings tell stories of centuries of vigilance and protection. Among these, the defence towers built in the 18th century stand out as guardians against pirate raids. The Torre de Llebeig, which emerged shortly after the emblematic Torre de na Pòpia in 1580, served as a protective shield for the cove of the same name and its sister tower, remaining today in an admirable state of conservation thanks to the efforts of the Consell Insular de Mallorca.
The lighthouses of Sa Dragonera, from the ancient Faro Vell to the Llebeig lighthouse and the Cap de Tramuntana lighthouse, have guided sailors through mists and fog. Transformed with the advancement of technology, these lighthouses, now automated and some converted into museums, continue to be beacons of culture and history, illuminating not only the waters but also the island’s legacy.
The houses and structures of Cala Lladó, along with other buildings scattered around the island, narrate the daily life of those who made Sa Dragonera their home or temporary refuge. Today, these constructions serve useful purposes, housing rangers, volunteers and scientists dedicated to preserving the island’s natural and historical wealth, demonstrating how Sa Dragonera has evolved from a scenario of defence and survival to a sanctuary of conservation and education.
Hiking in Sa Dragonera
On the island of Sa Dragonera, adventure awaits you at every turn, with trails that will take you through memorable landscapes, where each route promises a unique experience. From leisurely hikes to moderate challenges, all starting in Cala Lladó:
- Itinerary 1 – na Miranda: A fascinating excursion takes visitors from the dock to the top of na Miranda, offering an accessible 1.2-kilometre route that can be completed in approximately 30 minutes. This low-difficulty route is perfect for those who wish to enjoy a leisurely walk while appreciating the stunning views over Cala Lladó. Additionally, this path provides a unique opportunity to observe the ancient cultivation areas, where olive groves and cereal fields, which have been carefully rehabilitated, are flourishing and producing once again.
- Itinerary 2: The Tramuntana Lighthouse offers a 1.7 km route that starts at Cala Lladó and heads towards the iconic lighthouse. This round-trip route takes approximately 60 minutes, characterized by its gentle slope and reaching a maximum height of 65 metres. What makes this route special are its main attractions: the visit to the lighthouse’s interpretation centre, where you can learn more about the history and operation of this beacon, and the impressive views of the Mallorcan coast, which promise to be an unforgettable spectacle for all visitors.
- Itinerary 3 – Llebeig Lighthouse: For adventurers seeking a medium-difficulty challenge, the excursion connecting the dock to the Llebeig lighthouse is a perfect option. This 4.5-kilometer route can be comfortably completed in less than three hours, round trip. One of the jewels of this route is the visit to the Llebeig Tower, a historical monument that was carefully restored in 2004. Moreover, for those who decide to undertake this adventure in autumn, they will have the privilege of observing the majestic flight areas of the osprey.
- Itinerary 4: Na Pòpia Lighthouse: The last of the available excursions takes you from the dock to the old lighthouse of Na Pòpia. This route of around 3.8 kilometres elevates you to an impressive maximum height of 352 metres, offering you an adventure of approximately 3 hours in total, round trip. The highlight of this route is its smooth path, originally designed to facilitate the transport of materials to the old lighthouse. Upon reaching the summit of Na Pòpia, you are rewarded with the opportunity to explore the remains of the lighthouse.
Useful information:
How to get to the island of Dragonera?
The only way to access the island is via the boats that depart from Sant Elm, Puerto de Andratx, and Santa Ponsa. Some of the companies that provide this service are Cruceros Margarita, Cruceros de Mallorca, or Cruceros Cormorán, to name just a few.
Sa Dragonera Natural Park opening hours
- From 10:00 to 16:30 (from 1 May to 30 October, Monday to Friday).
- From 10:00 to 18:00 (from 1 May to 30 October, weekends and public holidays).
- From 10:00 to 14:30 (from 1 November to 30 April).
What you can do in Sa Dragonera?
- Explore the island through the four hiking routes mentioned earlier, enjoy an outdoor lunch in the designated picnic area, and cool off with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cala Lledó.
- You can disembark to enjoy the wonders of Cala Lledó, but remember that mooring is prohibited to preserve the tranquillity and natural environment of the area.
- For sea enthusiasts, free diving and snorkeling can be practiced, immersing oneself in the rich marine life that surrounds the island.
Permission must be requested for access and activities in Sa Dragonera:
- For collective transport vessels operating for profit, it is necessary to obtain a prior permit. Additionally, an entrance fee to the park must be paid for each visitor aged between 14 and 65 years old.
- Groups of more than 10 people, scientific research activities, any movement off the established trails, as well as professional filming or photography require special authorization. This ensures the preservation of the natural park and the sustainable enjoyment of its resources.
Respecting Nature in Sa Dragonera
To ensure the conservation of Sa Dragonera and the optimal experience for all visitors, the following restrictions apply:
- Entry to the park outside the established visiting hours is prohibited.
- Visitors must stay on the marked trails at all times.
- Smoking is only allowed in the designated area of the Cala Lledó dock.
- Lighting fires anywhere in the park is strictly prohibited.
- Listening to music without headphones is prohibited in order not to disturb the peace of the environment.
- Collecting, damaging, or interfering with the park’s flora, fauna, or minerals is prohibited.
- Shore fishing is prohibited to protect marine life.
- Feeding wild animals is prohibited in order not to alter their natural habits.
- Access with domestic animals is not allowed, with the exception of guide dogs.
- The use of drones is prohibited in order not to disturb wildlife.
- Only hiking is allowed as a sporting activity within the park.
For more information, you can visit the official page.
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