Paths of History: Watchtowers, Viewpoints and Legends of Southwest Mallorca
Some landscapes hold ancient secrets. Along the southwest coast of Mallorca, between cliffs and pine forests, old watchtowers still stand guard over the horizon. These stone sentinels have watched centuries pass — times when the sea brought not only travellers, but also merchants, pirates, and stories that still whisper in the wind.
From La Pergola Aparthotel in Port d'Andratx, just a short drive or walk away, you can reach some of the most breathtaking — and most storied — views on the island.
Towers That Once Watched the Sea
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Mallorca built a network of defensive towers along its coastline to protect against pirate attacks. Each one was placed within sight of the next, allowing guards to signal danger with smoke by day or fire by night.
One of the most striking is the Torre de Cala en Basset, overlooking the island of Sa Dragonera. The path begins in the village of Sant Elm and climbs gently upward, offering unforgettable views of both sea and mountains. On clear days, you can easily see the dragon-shaped silhouette that gives the island its name.? View route on AllTrails
Closer to the harbour, the Torre de Cap Andritxol offers another spectacular panorama. Nestled between Camp de Mar and Peguera, it rises on a pine-covered hill with sweeping views of the coastline. The deep green of the forest merges with the blue of the sea — a view that captures the very essence of Mallorca's southwest.
Viewpoints with a Soul
Not all panoramic spots here are made of stone. The Sa Mola Viewpoint, just minutes from Port d'Andratx, reveals a landscape that perfectly sums up this part of the island: the harbour, the bay, and the surrounding hills glowing under the setting sun.
These viewpoints are more than scenic stops; they are places where time seems to slow down. Perfect for walking, reflecting, or simply breathing in the sea air while history lingers quietly all around.
Between Legend and Reality
It's said that centuries ago, watchmen stationed at these towers often reported strange lights over the sea — perhaps pirate ships, perhaps storms, perhaps something else entirely. Today, those same lights belong to fishing boats returning to the port, yet the mystery remains.
Each tower and trail holds traces of the island's past, and to walk among them is to step back in time.
From La Pergola, these historic paths and lookout points invite travellers to discover the most authentic side of Mallorca — where history, nature and a touch of Mediterranean magic come together beneath the same horizon.
