Property GuideManacor

But look more closely and you'll soon see why both the town and municipal area of Manacor prove attractive to potential buyers of Mallorcan property.

A saying locally is "Manacor is not a city, it is a town'. and even though it is the second largest only to the capital Palma, residents prefer Manacor to retain its home-spun charm as a rural town on the island.

So why do so many look to buy a house or villa in Manacor? One reason is that the town lies at the terminus of the fast, efficient (and air-conditioned) modern train network that Mallorca takes justifiable pride in.

This means that anyone working in Palma, or just wanting to spend a few hours there, can reach the capital in a short time without getting stuck in any traffic jams.

But you don't even have to leave the town to enjoy some of the very best Mallorca has to offer. The old centre of Manacor has been lovingly restored and really scrubs up very well indeed. Picturesque churches, bustling squares, tremendous architecture, busy cafes and restaurants, brilliant fiestas...it's all here in Mallorca's second city. Manacor also hosts one of the island's busiest street markets every Monday morning.

Major Attractions

As mentioned earlier, Manacor has its fair share of architectural splendour to be admired. A prime example is the church of Nostra Senyora dels Dolors. Constructed in the 13th century on the original sight of a Moorish mosque, it is particularly renowned for its intricately-carved bell tower.

The Convent of Sant Vicenc Ferrer is also one of Manacor's star attractions. This splendid baroque building dates back to the 16th century, its stunning interior courtyard garden surrounded by sturdy arches not to be missed.

For history buffs there is the Museu d'Historia de Manacor. Housed in a medieval stone enclosure, it is particularly admired for its collection of ceramics and mosaics.

But it's not just historic buildings that attract visitors to the town. Manacor is the start of the 'Via Verde' ('Green Way') that proceeds along a long-gone railway line to Arta. The Via Verde is the only one of its kind in the whole of the Balearic Islands. It offers a fabulous ambling opportunity passing carefully restored old railway station buildings in Sant Llorenc, Son Servera and Son Carrio.

Aside from the wonderful flora on offer (Over 15,000 shrubs and several thousand new trees have been planted along the way such as oak, mulberry and pine), there are also many opportunities for little diversions for refreshments and sightseeing.

On arrival in Arta, you will discover that the original station office is now a tourist shop offering superb local artisan products.As you can imagine, the Via Verde is very popular with hikers, runners, cyclists and horse riders, particularly at weekends.

Fiesta time

Manacor is never shy to put on a festival or two, the fiesta de Sant Anton (Saint Anthony) being a prime example. Here the locals dress up as demons on the eve of the 17th January and perform dances and rituals in order to tempt the good character of Saint Anthony!

Come night time, bonfires are lit around the municipality of Manacor and the partying begins! And then the following day, a celebration known as the 'Beneides' features floats with all types of animals which are then blessed in honour of the patron saint of animals.

Perhaps the most important fairs held in the town are the Spring festivals held at the end of May until early June. A magnificent parade of floats signifies the end of the celebrations.

On a cultural theme, Manacor also hosts a particularly impressive theatre season, the 'Fira de Teatre de Manacor' which usually takes place in September.

And if sport is your thing, you will find that football, basketball and volleyball are very popular in Manacor - but perhaps not as popular as tennis thanks to the tennis academy set up by local hero, Rafael Nadal! Here, youngsters can improve their skills and maybe one day emulate the pinnacles of success achieved by their local hero.

Around Manacor

The coastal area of the Manacor municipality is characterised by its delightful sheltered coves or 'calas'. Well worth a visit, the choice you have is fabulous: Cala Mendia, Cala Pilota, Cala Anguila, Cala Falco, Cala Magrana, Cala Antena, Cala Virgili, Cala Murada, Cala Domingos, Cala Bota, Cala Sequer, Cala Varques, Cala Morlanda - the list seems never ending.

As you can imagine, their crystal-clear waters mean they are all ideal for swimming, paddle boarding, snorkelling and sailing.

And don't forget the famous, fabulous Caves of Drach nearby - Mallorca's most visited underground cave systems.

At Balearic Properties we would be delighted to help you find your dream home for sale in Mallorca. If you would like any information or advice please feel free to contact one of our friendly, helpful property professionals. Or simply give us a call on +34 971 53 22 21