Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
that makes the most of the seasons, from Mallorcan
gambas
(prawns) to perfectly cooked
steaks. Book ahead.
Getting There & Away
Santa Maria is around halfway along the Palma-Inca train line. Fares in either direction
cost €2.10, and journey times range between 18 and 23 minutes.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Binissalem
POP 7800 / ELEV 131M
The Romans brought their wine-making nous to Binissalem some 2000 years ago and the
placid little town at the foot of the Tramuntana hasn't looked back since. Its rich, velvety
Manto Negro grapes produce the island's best DO (Denominación de Origen) wines.
Besides vineyards, the gently rolling countryside here is cloaked in almond trees that
scatter their pale blossom in February.
Like many towns in inland Mallorca, Binissalem has retained its Arabic name.
Sights
José Luis Ferrer
WINERY
( 971 51 10 50;
www.vinosferrer.com
; Carrer del Conquistador 103; guided tours €6; tours
11am & 4.30pm Mon-Fri & 11am Sat, shop 9am-7pm Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm Sat, 10am-2pm Sun)
One
of Mallorca's largest and most celebrated wineries, José Luis Ferrer, at the west end of
the town, was launched in 1931. To get a better insight into the wine-making process,
hook onto one of the 45-minute guided tours, which include a three-wine tasting. Call
ahead to book.
Celler Tianna Negre
WINERY
( 971 88 68 26;
www.tiannanegre.com
; Camí des Mitjans; guided tours €10; guided tours
10am-2pm Mon-Fri, shop 9am-6.30pm Mon-Fri, 10am-1pm Sat)
This 20-hectare winery has
architect-designed buildings (we love the cork fence) and an aim for sustainability in its
wine-production processes. It produces a range of whites, reds and rosés. Guided tours
include a tasting of three wines and bread with Mallorcan olive oil.
