Raixa: La Gran Belleza - Estilo Palma

White clouds against a deep blue sky are reflected in the clear green water of the pond. What almost looks like a swimming pool is part of a sophisticated irrigation system. Turning the dry mountain in fertile ground. With the cypress trees and the neoclassical facade the impressive estate reminds of a Tuscan villa embedded in a lush park.

In fact, Finca de Raixa at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains has Arab roots and a Roman touch. Today, the magic place is open to the public. Whether you just want to stroll through the garden, learn more about the Tramuntana or admire the architecture, Raixa is worth a visit.

A small bridge leads up to the mansion at the foot of the hill. Three stairs to both sides of the main entrance of the building remind of a time when people arrived by horse. The courtyard with its draw-well is typical of a Mallorcan country house. To the outside though the manor opens up to an ornamental garden and the entire bay of Palma. The terrace is lined by columns, hydraulic tiles decorate the floor.

Meanwhile, the mansion houses a fantastic inter-active exhibition. Covering interesting aspects of flora and fauna as well as the landscape of the mountain range. You can also catch a glimpse of day-to-day life in the past and the diverse culture of the Tramuntana towns and villages. One more reason to come back to Raixa and take your time to have a closer look.

My personal happy place, however, are the gardens. A magnificent staircase is guarded by stone lions. On our way up the terraced slope the views are getting more and more exciting.

The picturesque path leads further to a romantic pavilion, a small chapel and a round temple on the top of the hill.

The history of Finca Raixa was rather eventful. Like the Jardines de Alfabia of Arab origin, to the formative influence of Cardinal Antoni Despuig i Dameto, who owned it in the late 18th century, to the acquisition by the Consell de Mallorca in 2002. Today, Raixa reflects the cultural diversity and the beauty of the island.