A day in Sant Elm from La Pérgola: beach, walk and views of Sa Dragonera
Unlike other busier destinations, Sant Elm maintains a slower pace, even in summer. Set between sea and mountains, it stands out for its identity as a Mediterranean coastal village.
Full of charming corners, it offers different activities to enjoy as a family, as a couple or with friends. Behind the village rise the slopes that lead to La Trapa, while on the horizon appears an island that looks like a dragon resting on the Mediterranean: Sa Dragonera.
From La Pérgola Aparthotel, we suggest a day out to discover Sant Elm among crystal-clear waters, peaceful walks and one of the most recognisable views on the island.
An excursion away from Mallorca's bustle
The day begins in the calm surroundings of La Pérgola Aparthotel, enjoying breakfast as the south-west of Mallorca slowly begins to wake up.
The destination is just 9 km from the hotel and, as you follow the road, the landscape opens up between sea and mountains, leading to this picturesque village.
Arriving early, between 8:00 and 9:00, allows you to explore the seafront streets before the summer atmosphere begins, while they still preserve a more relaxed rhythm.
If there is one thing that defines the coast of Sant Elm, it is the complete calm of its waters, making it the perfect setting for a kayaking or paddleboarding trip.
From the sea, the landscape takes on a different perspective: small hidden coves, caves, Mediterranean vegetation and rock walls that break into the sea, all while Dragonera remains still on the horizon.
Several companies in the area offer guided kayaking or paddleboarding tours, led by specialists who know the area and its most hidden corners. But should you feel more adventurous that day, you can also hire the equipment and explore freely. The best option is to set aside at least two and a half hours to discover every corner of the coastline without rushing and enjoy the views at your own pace.
Resting at a Mediterranean pace
After exploring the coast from the sea, it is time to enjoy "Sa Gran", the village's main beach. It combines fine sand with turquoise waters and Sa Dragonera on the horizon. This moment of the day is for relaxing, sunbathing and swimming before lunch.
As the morning goes on, the promenade and terraces gradually fill with people, revealing a livelier Sant Elm, though never an overcrowded one.
The village of Sant Elm takes its name from the patron saint of sailors and fishermen, which reflects the important fishing tradition behind it. This tradition can be felt in its restaurants, many of which focus on seafood.
One of the best ways to discover this gastronomic tradition is to sit on a terrace facing the sea with family or friends, tasting dishes inspired by Mediterranean culture. There is a wide range of restaurants where you can enjoy the island's seafaring cuisine, especially through its fish and seafood rice dishes.
After lunch, it is time to head to the other sandy beach, "Sa Petita", which is smaller and quieter, to digest, rest and gather strength for the next activity.
Discovering the silence beneath the sea
The coast of Sant Elm has a kind of magic that is hard to find elsewhere. Perhaps it is because of the many legends told about Sa Dragonera, or perhaps because of the serenity of the sea. For this reason, much of the experience is lived alongside the Mediterranean, but in this case, beneath it.
Below the surface, Sant Elm reveals a completely different landscape. Snorkelling here is more than a physical activity; it is a moment to pause, observe and let time pass slowly among turquoise waters and Posidonia meadows.
The starting point is less than a 15-minute walk from "Sa Petita". It is the cove of "Es Conills", a pebble beach that feels much wilder, creating the perfect setting to explore the seabed.
The usual water conditions in Sant Elm are ideal for snorkelling. However, on windy days, small currents may appear, so it is advisable to check the state of the sea before entering the water and to stay close to the shore.
The seabed forms part of Sant Elm's natural essence. It is unique and should remain that way. Enjoying it also means respecting it, taking care of the flora and fauna that live beneath the surface.
Although the hours pass almost unnoticed between swims and crystal-clear waters, it is important to leave Cala Conills before the afternoon begins to fade in order to continue the day as it deserves, as one of its most special moments still awaits, facing Sa Dragonera.
The last reflection of the day over the Mediterranean
The day comes to a memorable close with an afternoon walk along the promenade, when the light begins to fall slowly over the Mediterranean and the village reveals one of its most beautiful scenes.
At sunset, the sky is tinged with golden tones, the terraces come to life and the promenade takes on a more nostalgic atmosphere. Sant Elm is one of the best places in Mallorca to watch the sunset, as the sun gradually disappears behind the island of Dragonera.
After the seafront walk, we suggest dinner at Es Raor, a restaurant well known for its skill with fish, with a terrace located right at sea level. It is a moment to enjoy different fresh fish dishes while the views accompany the evening, with boats filling the coast of Sant Elm and, once again, Sa Dragonera taking centre stage.
La Pérgola as a place to disconnect
By the time the day comes to an end, La Pérgola becomes the ideal refuge, just a few minutes away by car. A place to rest and recharge before continuing to discover the wildest corners of the island.
