Fornalutx sits nestled in the most spectacular vale within the Serra de Tramuntana - the valley of Sóller (pronounced Sól-yer). Its first known buildings, the 10th century Moorish watch tower and the ancient walls of the original alquería - or farmstead - command fabulous views of orange groves and olive terraces climbing high into the backdrop. From this historic pueblo, known as the Aldea Mil Años (Village of a Thousand Years) one can almost experience the spirit of the early settlers. The Venetian traders cutting through the high passes in search of olive oil, the then currency of the Mediterranean. The Roman soldiers milling Saharan wheat in the water mills powered by the valley’s abundant springs. The Moors, with their understanding of all things created in stone, ceramic and terracotta.
Close to Fornalutx is the Baranque - one of the hundred wonders of the world. Starting from the hamlet Biniaraix, these stone steps were cut through the mountains perhaps 2,500 years ago by the Carthaginians, as they expanded their oil trading routes. To this day, nobody knows whether the great stones of the ancient olive tree terraces perched precariously on the mountainside, were rolled up the hill, or drawn down. The abundant footpaths through the terraces are suitable for all levels of fitness, from casual strolls to serious hikes.
The nearby town of Sóller derives its name from the Moorish word sullier - 'The Golden Valley.' The town displays a wonderful air of grace and dignity, with its charmingly faded mansions bearing witness to the affluence that both an historic weaving industry and the citrus trade with France granted. This affluence provided for a private steam railway to be carved through the mountains in the late nineteenth century, which in turn became one of the first electric railways in Spain in the early part of this century. This valley glowed with the light of chandeliers when, in other areas of Spain, electricity was an unobtainable dream. The weaving mills have given way to pleasant leisure pursuits. Now the rickety train ride is an enchanting option to the new, fast toll-road tunnel linking Sóller to Palma, as the vintage wooden rolling-stock winds unhurriedly over splendid viaducts and past the sensational vistas.
