Some places around the world capture people with splendor, beauty, and excitement or peace. Not all spots have the same seductive qualities for all people. Various Valhalla's pass in and out of favour. One island, long in, is now more in than ever.
First, let me tell you about the days of "out" that this island experienced. Way back between the 17th century and the first part of the 20th, land along the coast of this Mediterranean island was not coveted -- mainly because of vulnerability to Moorish pirates just over the horizon. The most effective warning systems was a string of signal towers, huge stone structures strategically situated around the coast to signal residents whenever invader ships were sighted. This was great for Mallorcans living inland, but not so good for coastal dwellers that had no time to escape into the hinterland as pirates landed. They suffered. It was common practice for senior family members to split their property equally among surviving offspring. Promising offspring got the safe inland productive farmland property and the black sheep got the less desirable waterfront.
Times have changed. Way back in the 20th century, Northern Europeans started to visit this island as communications and adequate shipping became more prevalent. They wanted the sun, the sand and the sea not the (then, to most Spanish eyes) more desirable inland villages. Some visitors offered high prices for tiny slices of seafront land. Mallorcan black sheep became "Shore Barons", whose income from selling or renting seafront property quickly eclipsed whatever other family members held in the interior.
Last year this little Spanish island pop 500,000 200 km off the bustling Catalan capitol of Barcelona catered to six million Germans, three million Brits and another three million assorted, most from the Spanish mainland.
Toward the close of the 20th century some foreigners began to head inland to discover long-hidden villages treasures. Unusual attractions were found. Mallorca is becoming increasingly famous for their freshwater pearls. But another pearl of the Balearics has been restored, modernized, expanded and popularized by British entrepreneur Richard Branson. He of Virgin everything and round-the-world hot air ballooning fame.
Branson's hotel, La Residencia is located in the little mountain village of Deia. The atmosphere is sophisticated. Guests include a sprinkling of movie stars, global celebrities, senior business executives, bon vivants, tennis stars and other seasoned travellers. The place has the aroma of old money, enhanced by new revenue streams.
Why Deia? For the last century literary icons have been coming here seeking seclusion they were unable to find elsewhere. Some find it as the goal of their wanderings and move in. Like Robert Graves, one of the great writers of the 20th century. Deia is dripping with artists. These days one can even get to it fairly easily.
Residencia is an old manor house, lovingly and lavishly furnished. Décor: golden relaxation. Service staff appear Swiss-trained. Cousine is elaborate as you can dream. Prices are about the same as any top London hotel but without the built-in "rush". La Residencia is a place to remember.
Tennis courts with Famous by Sunday tennis pro of 17 years, George Lindsay, can make you a tennis star by Sunday. If you're a writer convinced that your book will sell a million copies, pay the tab and write it here. Your writing expenses are deductible.
If you dream of being a European countess or baron, this is the place. Stroll through gardens where Archdukes planned empires. Look north over the mountains to the blue Mediterranean.
If you can't seem to slow down, stay here at least one night. Your life may change.
