Port d'Andratx

The northern shore is the fishing side. Here you find the boats and fishermen’s cooperative, with nets, crates and ice in use between seven and nine. Arrive early to see it; by eleven, the activity is over.

The southern shore has the marina and waterfront restaurants. Behind it rises the Sa Mola peninsula, where the road gives wide views over the bay.

Both sides share the same water throughout the day.

From a distance, the villas shape your impression of the port. They climb the slopes around the bay, on Sa Mola and above Cala Llamp, right up towards the ridgeline.

Whatever you think of the prices, some of the architecture is worth noticing. The best houses fit into the slopes, following old terraces and contours. Natural stone and pale render help them blend in, while their roofs stay below the pines. From the water, some are surprisingly discreet.

International architects have worked here, and several houses are fine examples of contemporary design on Mallorca. If architecture interests you, drive up the road on Sa Mola, then take the bends towards Cala Llamp. It makes an enjoyable half-hour detour.

In the late afternoon, western sunlight catches the façades above the bay. You can see why people want to live here.

There is no substantial sandy beach. Head to Camp de Mar or Sant Elm, both around fifteen minutes away, or to the rocks at Cala Llamp south of the village, where ladders lead into the water.

The port belongs to Andratx, a short drive inland. The older town stands away from the water for good reason: coastal settlements were vulnerable to corsair attacks in the 16th century.

Its Wednesday market is one of the larger ones in western Mallorca.

Parking is difficult in season. Try the head of the bay, where spaces tend to last longest. The promenade can be followed around the harbour; allow a little over half an hour for a full waterfront walk.