The panoramic view from the old lighthouse is simply breathtaking. Like a paper cutout the rugged cliffs of the Tramuntana mountains recede to the coast of Andratx. Framed by the deep blue of the Mediterranean the entire island of Sa Dragonera lies at your feet. While small lizards are trying to enter your rucksack on the edge of the viewing platform. 

The Dragon Island

Looking at it from afar Sa Dragonera actually resembles a giant dragon resting in the sea. But the uninhabited island at the westernmost tip of Mallorca is equally well-known for its large population of sargantanas. The endemic species of wall lizard is the only land-dwelling vertebrate that was native here before the arrival of humans. On your visit to Sa Dragonera you’ll meet the small magic dragons everywhere. 

The Old Lighthouse

Four signposted hiking trails lead to the island’s scenic viewpoints. The most impressive one brings you all the way up to the lighthouse on the rocky summit. Far de Na Pòpia is one of the oldest lighthouses in the Balearic Islands. Although it hasn’t been in operation for more than a century, the ruins tell an impressive story about the once challenging seafaring at the wild coast.

Abundant Nature

In numerous hairpin bends and serpentines a well-preserved donkey path meanders up the mountain. All along, the small lizards are crossing your path. Nature is abundant here on Mallorca’s little sister island that is also a sanctuary for birds. Hiking through rosmarin-scented macchia and blossoming wildflowers below circling falcons and cormorans you may even pass nesting seagulls. And the views get more stunning at every turn. 

Ranger Station

Since 1995, Sa Dragonera has been protected Parque Natural. You need permission to moor a boat and to set foot on the island. A small entrance fee pays for the ranger station with the little museum down by the pier. The exhibition tells about the island’s rich flora and fauna and about its eventful history. From pirates and smugglers who found shelter and hiding places in the numerous caves. Today though, the rangers make sure that nobody stays overnight.

Boat Ride

A trip to the Dragon Island is an exciting experience for the whole family. Including the 20-minute boat ride from Sant Elm which is great fun. Even less seaworthy travelers enjoy the crossing when the captain’s playlist gets from romantic to rocky in proportion to the waves. Weather permitting, Cruceros Margarita takes you to Sa Dragonera several times a day from March until end of October.