The Sanctuary of Mare de Déu de la Consolación: A Unique Place

The Sanctuary of Consolación is a place with a special aura. In its elevated location, with incredible views over the island of Mallorca and incomparable tranquility, it is a place of worship, but also of contemplation and relaxation. Ascending to this sanctuary means escaping the problems of everyday life and connecting with something superior, be it spiritual or natural. It’s not one of the typical places for the vast majority of people who visit Mallorca, but perhaps it should be. It is, without a doubt, a special place that will allow you to experience the island in a different way.

We’re going to tell you everything you need to know about this sanctuary and give you some recommendations to make the most of your next visit to Mallorca. Keep reading and don’t miss anything!

The Sanctuary of Mare de Déu de la Consolació

This sanctuary went through several periods, with the original building dating back to the 13th century, while the one that has survived to this day was renovated in the 17th and 18th centuries. Its name gives us an explanation of its purpose: to honor the Virgin of Consolation, a very important figure in Mallorcan culture. It has always been a place of religious devotion, a meeting point, and a place of celebration.

The natural environment surrounding this temple is spectacular and has always been cared for by hermits and religious people. This is one of the reasons for its good state of preservation. Visiting this temple is discovering a piece of Mallorca’s history and culture, as well as exploring the inherent rurality of this island. Moreover, it is a great plan for children.

What to See at the Sanctuary of Consolación

The building of the Sanctuary of Consolación, which includes a small church and an old hospice, with its sober architecture, fits very well in this place and is therefore a point of interest in itself. Enter and contemplate the altar with the image of the Virgin of Consolation. But the most interesting are the exterior views: clear and 360°. With luck, on clear days, you can even see the sea from the top of the hill. In addition, all the nature surrounding the sanctuary deserves a careful look and invites you to spend some time walking around the area.

Nearby Activities and Routes

The Sanctuary of Consolación is located in a perfect area for hiking and cycling, with much to explore. You can try the route between Sant Joan, Petra, and Villafranca de Bonany, which allows you to visit 3 villages and walk through fields, discover hermitages, and spot windmills. If you like photography, here you can capture a side of Mallorca that few people know, capturing its fields and native fauna and flora.

Sant Joan, moreover, is where the patron saint festivities are celebrated, with processions and many cultural activities that also pass through the Sanctuary of Consolación. A few minutes by car you can visit Talaiots de Son Fornés, an archaeological site that was one of the first settlements in Mallorca.

How to Get to the Sanctuary of Consolación

The closest village to the Sanctuary of Consolación is Sant Joan, about 2 kilometers away, so it’s very easy to reach the temple by car, as the route is well marked on the road. A very interesting alternative is to reach the sanctuary on foot or by bike, through rural paths that allow a deeper connection with the nature of the island.

To Reach Sant Joan

From Palma, by car, the journey takes about 35 minutes;
From Santanyí, the car journey takes just over half an hour;
From Alcúdia, in the north of the island, it will take almost 40 minutes by car;
From Sóller, near the Serra de Tramuntana, it will take less than 1 hour to arrive;

The best area of Mallorca to stay near Sant Joan and enjoy the beaches is the southern area, in villages like Santanyí or Ses Salines.

Tips for the Visit

There are no special precautions to take when visiting the Sanctuary of Consolación, but we leave you some suggestions:

Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes, so you can walk leisurely around the sanctuary and even do some hiking.
Avoid the hottest hours, especially if you go in summer. In the morning and at sunset, the environment is even more pleasant.
Don’t forget to bring water, snacks, and sunscreen, as you’ll only find stores in Sant Joan.
Remember that this is a religious temple, and therefore deserves respect. Maintain silence and protect the environment.

Lastly, visit with enough time to rest, explore the area, and perhaps even meditate a bit. People come here for tranquility.

It's worth visiting the Sanctuary of Consolation in Mallorca

To discover another side of Mallorca, visiting the Sanctuary of Consolation is a good starting point. It’s a way to connect with a more rural and traditional part of the island, something few tourists get to experience. Additionally, visiting this temple is a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and get some exercise, especially if you choose to make the journey by bike or on foot. It’s a highly recommended place if you need to find some peace during your visit to Mallorca. And don’t forget your camera (or phone), because the views are spectacular.

Your accommodation in Mallorca is at Drac Mallorca, where you’ll find the best houses and apartments in various parts of the island. Choose between a comfortable apartment in an exclusive cove, for a more intimate experience, or a country house on an estate with a pool for your group of friends or family; choose from pet-friendly options, with barbecue or terrace. Whatever your choice, you’ll be booking with the peace of mind of having vacation rental specialists in Mallorca.