Off the far west corner of Majorca lies the island and Natural Park, Sa Dragonera. It is now an uninhabited island, though in 1977 was briefly occupied by environmentalists protesting against a planned tourist development. The protesters won and the island was instead turned into the popular nature reserve that it still is today. Visitors can explore the island, wander the coast, watch the wildlife or venture onto one of the four recommended walking trails. These are a good way to explore and you can find them for yourself here.
During the summer boats make half hourly trips to the island from the small jetty in the pretty Majorcan coastal town Sant Elm. The journey provides fantastic views and makes for a great start to your day out. Take a look at the Cruceros Margarita website for the boat time table and other excursions. Alternatively there are often summer boat trips from near-by towns Santa Ponsa, Peguera and Port d'Andratx, which are just along the west coast from Sant Elm.
Find a range of excursion companies here.
The island is beautifully unspoilt with shrub-like flora and incredible views out over the sea. Be prepared for lots of walking as you will really want to explore. There aren't a great deal of facilities on the island so it is recommended that you take food, drink and sun cream with you! There is, however, a small information centre at the start of the walking trail routes and there are toilets here that you can use.
There is mixed opinion as to why the island is named what it is. Some say at certain angles the shape resembles that of a huge dragon looming up from the water, while others attribute the name to the island's chief inhabitants. Sa Dragonera is famous for its large population of endemic Balearic lizards who thrive across its uninhabited landscape. They are pretty friendly, and you will be able to get some great photos of them, but don't be tempted to feed the lizards as it is unfortunately forbidden.
As well as the lizards, Sa Dragonera is home to a good variety of sea birds such as cormorants and many species of gull. Eleonora's falcons and ospreys are quite a common sight up in the skies and the island is geographically well placed to receive those species flying their autumnal migratory path. So it's a good idea to bring along the binoculars.
The surrounding marine life is rich with all kinds of crustaceans and invertebrates as well as dolphins and turtles, eagle rays, barracuda and sun fish. So lots to see! Scuba Activa, based in Sant Elm, specialises in dives off the coast of the Natural Park. They have more than 30 different dive sites including wrecks and caves to explore. They offer different types and level of courses and organise snorkelling trips too – the waters are so clear and blue that visibility is spectacular. If you like the sound of exploring Sa Dragonera's warm waters visit the Scuba Activa Website for more information.
La Reserva de Biniorella is a fantastic holiday resort from which to explore the island of Majorca and take day trips to Sa Dragonera. It is located in Camp de Mar, just round the coast from Port d'Andratx. Find out how to stay here by following the link.
