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Last Updated on 23 February 2024 by Vanessa

Deià, nestled amidst the Tramuntana mountains on the island of Mallorca, is a foreign artists’ colony that has captured the hearts of visitors from around the world. Writer, travel blogger, and photographer Claudia Mannes shares her experiences in this quaint village, shedding light on its unique charm and on the cats that have become integral part of the village’s identity.

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Deià, a cat-filled day trip from Palma de Mallorca

This is a guest post by Claudia Mannes.

Where is Deià?

Deià is a charming village located on the northwest coast of the island of Mallorca, which is part of the Balearic Islands in Spain.

This highly sought-after destination entices an array of travelers: Beach enthusiasts revel in its pristine shores, while nature lovers explore its mountains and trails. Cultural explorers delve into its history, and food connoisseurs savor its diverse cuisine. Artists draw inspiration from its landscapes, partygoers revel in its nightlife, families find ample activities, and romantic souls are captivated by its charm.

If you’re seeking a serene and picturesque side of Mallorca to explore, Deià is a definite must-visit on your list. It is situated within the Tramuntana mountains, a picturesque range that runs along the western side of Mallorca. Deià is known for its stunning natural beauty, artistic community, and captivating Mediterranean landscapes. The village overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, providing breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere that has attracted artists, writers, and travelers from around the world.

The cats of Deià

I’ve visited Deià multiple times already, and the cats are always present.

There are many things I really like about Deià, the cemetery being one of them, but what I truly prefer about this village are its cats. They are definitely the most photographed and sought-after attraction in Deià. Even guidebooks write about them.

The impact of Joanna Kuhne

Most of the cats in Deià belong to a lady called Joanna Kuhne. She’s an American artist and entrepreneur, hailing from Chicago, Illinois, who has made a significant impact on the artistic community of Deià. After graduating as an engineer, she embarked on a sailing adventure across the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea that eventually brought her to the shores of the Balearic Islands.

When her boat arrived in Mallorca, Joanna first fell in love with Deià and then with her future husband. Together, they opened a café, which became a hub for creativity and local interactions. She began showcasing her unique ceramics at the café, and her artistic talent quickly gained recognition. Over time, her ceramics became a testament to the beauty and inspiration she drew from the surrounding landscapes and the village itself.

With her artistic pursuits flourishing, Joanna Kuhne and her husband were able to transition away from running the café, allowing her to focus entirely on her ceramics and other creative endeavors. The couple now lives an idyllic and artistic life in Deià, surrounded by their feline companions and the tranquil beauty of the village.

How to travel from Palma to Deià by bus?

To travel from Palma to Deià by bus, follow these steps:

Start at Estació Intermodal, the central bus and train station in Palma.
Look for the EMT (Empresa Municipal de Transports) Line 1 bus, which operates from Estació Intermodal to Port de Sóller. Line 1 will take you through scenic routes as you leave Palma.
Disembark at the stop “Plaça Espanya,” which is a major transportation hub in Palma.
At Plaça Espanya, transfer to the TIB (Transport de les Illes Balears) bus Line 210. This bus operates from Palma to Port de Sóller, and it includes a stop in Deià.
On average, the bus ride from Palma to Deià takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

How to travel from Palma to Deià by car?

Here are step-by-step directions on how to travel from Palma to Deià by car:

Start in Palma, and head northwest on Carrer del Bisbe Campins toward Plaça del Mercat. Continue onto Carrer dels Oms.
Turn right onto Avinguda d’Alexandre Rosselló.
Use the left lane to merge onto Ma-1 (Via Cintura/PM-20) via the ramp to Andratx/Port d’Alcúdia.
Continue on Ma-1 for approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles).
Take Exit 5B toward Ma-11/Valldemossa/Deià.
Merge onto Ma-11, and continue for about 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles).
Take the exit toward Deià.
Merge onto Ma-10.
Follow Ma-10 as it winds through the scenic Tramuntana mountains. This road will lead you to the village of Deià.
As you approach Deià, you’ll see signs indicating the village center and parking areas.
The estimated distance between Palma and Deià is approximately 35 to 40 kilometers (about 22 to 25 miles). The journey from Palma to Deià by car typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes.

Conclusion: is Deià worth visiting?

Deià is an enchanting gem that absolutely warrants a visit. Beyond its captivating Mediterranean vistas and charming village ambiance, the presence of the famed cats adds a unique allure. The influence of Joanna Kuhne, whose artistic spirit permeates the village, enriches the experience further. Having explored Deià multiple times, I am certain that its timeless charm and artistic energy will continue to draw me back for future visits.

Continue your exploration of Mallorca with a road trip through the Serra de Tramuntana, and venture to Valldemossa, a mere 30-minute drive from Deià.

About the author

Claudia Mannes is a German TV writer, travel blogger, and photographer weaving narratives through visual artistry. Kleinplanet311 serves as her personal playground, an experimental haven where curiosity guides her explorations. With a keen eye, stories unveil themselves – sometimes overtly, sometimes beneath layers, nestled in details. From landscapes to fleeting moments, her lens captures the essence, and as Claudia delves into her imagery, narratives take flight.

The travel bug bit her in 2013 during a sabbatical in Spain, ultimately sparking the birth of her blog in September 2014. As the journey unfolds, Claudia’s evolution as an artist and storyteller continues to blossom, fueled by the intersection of photography and prose.