Mallorca has a wealth of medieval heritage, including the Canyamel Tower, which is what we’re here to tell you about today. It is a perfectly preserved 13th-century fortress, located in the Canyamel valley—hence its name. And we could say even more, as it is also considered one of the most unique medieval buildings in all of Europe of its kind.
If you’re thinking about what to see in Canyamel or the Capdepera area, put this at the top of your list.
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What is Canyamel Tower like?
It is 23 meters high, has a square floor plan, and its architecture is Gothic in style.. Sa Torre de Canyamel also has ground-floor walls that are up to a meter thick—a fact that speaks volumes about its solidity—and three floors with labyrinthine stairs leading up to the keep, another of the building’s highlights.
Another of its charms is the view; from the roof, you can spot the island’s east coast and Canyamel Bay, as well as enjoy panoramic views of inland Mallorca, with the Serra de Tramuntana in the background.
A construction with eight centuries of history
Canyamel Tower is a defensive building of Muslim origin built during the height of James I’s conquest of Mallorca. Its strategic position allows it to dominate the entire valley and watch over the bay against possible pirate raids from the sea.
In the past, pirates were common here, and the Mallorcan coast was the scene of conflict almost every single day. The local population and corsairs fought over the territories, so coastal surveillance was an essential resource to have—survival depended on it! Once the enemy was spotted from the sea, the tower served as a meeting and defense point where the community could protect themselves until the danger passed.
Throughout its eight centuries of history, Canyamel Tower has passed through various owners and uses, but it has always been a fixture in the Mallorcan landscape.
And how has it lasted 800 years? Its nearly intact state is largely the result of the solidity of its original construction and, on the other hand, thanks to the restoration work that has been carried out to preserve it.
What to see during a visit to Canyamel Tower
A visit to Sa Torre de Canyamel will take you between 45 minutes and an hour because, besides the building and the views, there are more elements you should look out for; here’s what they are.
The museum
Inside the tower is the Canyamel Tower historical museum, which traces the most important and critical moments of its eight centuries of existence. The exhibition features explanatory panels, archaeological pieces, and recreations that help visitors understand both the building’s original defensive function and its role in the history of Mallorca. It is a small museum, but full of detail.
The stairs and the keep
Climbing the labyrinthine stairs of the tower is one of the most unique experiences of the visit. The narrow corridors, the ancient stone, the darkness, the feeling of cold and damp, and the slits through which only a sliver of light passes create a fairytale atmosphere that you have to experience for yourself.
When you reach the very top and step out onto the roof, incredible views await you from the keep.. Try to go up on a clear day and the experience will be even better; you’ll see Canyamel Bay, the pine forest surrounding the valley, the coast to the north and south, and the mountains in the island’s interior. The photo opportunities from here are hard to beat.
The complex: restaurant, hotel, and spa
The tower isn’t standing all alone, not at all! A complex has developed around the building that includes a restaurant, a boutique hotel, and a thermal spa known as “Fontsanta.” This spa is the only thermal water spa in the Balearic Islands, which in itself makes it a very special stop.
Opening hours and tickets for Canyamel Tower
The price per person to enter Canyamel Tower is only €3, a more than reasonable fee for what the site offers in return.
And the schedule? It is open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday to Saturday. On Sunday, it is open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and, as you might guess, Monday is the day of rest.
What to see near Canyamel Tower
If you’re wondering what to see in Canyamel besides the tower, you should take note of Canyamel beach, one of the quietest and most family-friendly in the area; the Cap de Pinar viewpoint, another spot for indescribable views; and, if you’re interested in gastronomy, the area is also a great destination to try typical Mallorcan food: arroz brut, frito mallorquín, ensaimada, and everything else this cuisine has to surprise you with.
Additionally, if you’re a golf fan or thinking about hitting the green, you have to come and try Canyamel Golf, one of the golf courses in Mallorca with the best reputation and following.
And besides aiming for the green, the tower’s location allows you to explore other treasures like Capdepera Castle, refresh yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Sa Font de sa Cala, venture into the spectacular Caves of Artà, or walk to the Capdepera Lighthouse.
Are you ready to discover Canyamel Tower?
We’ve already given you plenty of reasons to visit Canyamel Tower; now let us give you reasons to stay with us. At Ideal Property, we have the perfect space for you to rest after climbing the tower, visiting the surroundings, and tasting the best dishes of Mallorcan cuisine.
Villas, country houses, apartments, and flats, with or without a terrace, and in the best locations: that’s what we offer here for your visit to Canyamel Tower.