Maria de la Salut is one of those Mallorcan villages that envelop you in calm from the moment you set foot in them. Located right in the center of the island, far from the hustle and bustle of the coast, with quiet squares and an atmosphere that could be from another era. If you’re looking to completely disconnect and enjoy a genuine Mallorca, this is your place.
Here you’ll discover how to easily get to Maria de la Salut in Mallorca, the festivals that bring the town to life, where to enjoy homemade and authentic food, among other things that will make you only have to book your accommodation. Keep reading!
How to get to Maria de la Salut: easy routes and options if you're moving around the island
Maria de la Salut is located in the heart of Mallorca, about 40 minutes from Palma by highway, which makes it super accessible if you’re exploring the island. It’s a key point in the Pla de Mallorca, that green area sought after by nature and countryside lovers.
From Palma, you can take the highway towards Inca and turn off onto the Ma-13 towards the center and in a short while you’ll be parking in the square. On the other hand, if you’re coming from the north, you can go down the Inca road and continue straight inland; and if you’re coming from the east, it’s a flat ride along secondary roads.
The practical tip is to go by car, because that way you can easily get to nearby towns like Sineu or Petra which are 10-15 minutes away. Although you can also go by public transport.
The local festivals and traditions in Maria de la Salut are what make the town special
What truly gives the town its soul are its festivals, with that community atmosphere where everyone knows each other and fun manifests in its streets.. You can enjoy live music, dances in the square, and customs that are repeated generation after generation.
Sant Joan (June 24)
This is the festival that turns Maria de la Salut upside down for several days. One of the most spectacular things are the giants and big-heads, made of papier-mâché representing historical and popular characters of the town, who parade through the streets.
At night, the Plaza Mayor transforms with local orchestras, open-air dances until late, and fireworks that can be seen from any corner of the town. On the 24th, there is a solemn mass in honor of Sant Joan, followed by the procession with the image of the saint touring the decorated streets.
The icing on the cake are the typical Mallorcan dances, where dancers dress in their regional costumes and everyone joins in, even visitors. There are also giant paella contests in the square where entire families participate, firework displays that light up the sky, and street stalls with whatever you fancy eating.
Festa de Maig (May)
This festival celebrates the arrival of spring with the town covered in flowers. The main streets are adorned with petal carpets and thousands of roses that the neighbors prepare for days, creating natural walkways that last only a few hours but leave unforgettable images.
There is a flower offering to the Mare de Déu de la Salut in the parish church, followed by a folk music concert with xeremias, the traditional Mallorcan instrument, and dances in the square.
The atmosphere is serene but joyful, there are craft markets with honey, cured meats, Mahón cheese, and handmade souvenirs. You can see the plant and flower stalls where you can take home a living souvenir; you also can’t forget the local gastronomy, it’s a must to try the flaons, coca de patata, and sweet buñuelos.
They also organize workshops on flowers, dance, or pastry so that everyone can enjoy the festival and integrate.
Holy Week and other pilgrimages
The Holy Week processions are silent and very emotional for the locals, featuring ancient floats dating back to the 17th century that process at the pace of the brotherhood members. The Pietà and the Holy Burial are the most intense moments with candles illuminating facades and a town united in silence.
The small pilgrimages to nearby hermitages are one of the most authentic plans, but you must attend with respect. Walks along rural paths with ox carts, shared picnics under olive trees, and popular songs are something worth seeing. Locals share their food and you’ll surely end up talking to a local family.
If you decide to attend, we recommend you bring something to share, whether it’s fruit or sweets. That way, you’ll instantly integrate.
Where to eat in Maria de la Salut: places and food styles to enjoy without complications
Don’t expect to find Michelin-starred restaurants here, because the real charm lies in homemade Mallorcan food.. Think of generous daily menus ranging from 12 to 18 euros or shared paellas on sunny terraces.
If you’re looking for local cuisine in its purest essence, we recommend trying crispy roasted suckling pig, tumbet with garden vegetables, Mallorcan frito, or soupy rice.. But remember to start with a pa amb oli.
A place that doesn’t go unnoticed is the Plaça Major and its terraces where you can see grandparents playing cards, children on bikes, and bells marking the hour. And don’t forget to enjoy the tapas; you can savor homemade ensaladilla, ham croquettes, Padrón peppers, or fava pixum.
Discover this corner of Mallorca and use it as a base for exploration
Maria de la Salut is small, but with a varied range of plans that you’ll remember.. Every corner is worth it and every festival will invite you to join, so stop by this small central town to enjoy Mallorca in its purest state.
Staying in an apartment with Rentallorca will make your trip easier and more comfortable, as it will allow you to discover the island at your own pace. Contact us to book yours!