With our Local Stories series, we love highlighting the traditions and everyday culture that shape Mallorca beyond its beaches. Over the years, we’ve shared stories about artisans, local products and creative projects that keep the island’s heritage alive. These are the stories that help visitors understand Mallorca from a deeper perspective: its landscapes, its gastronomy and the people who continue to care for its traditions.
One of the most important elements of this culture is Majorcan olive oil, a product that has been part of island life for centuries and remains a cornerstone of the local cuisine today.
Mallorca – a landscape shaped by olive trees
Olive trees have been part of Mallorca’s landscape for more than a thousand years. Many of the trees found in the Serra de Tramuntana are centuries-old olive trees, their twisted trunks almost sculptural in shape, reflecting generations of agricultural tradition.
Traditionally, olive groves were cultivated on dry-stone terraces built along the mountain slopes. These terraces allowed farmers to grow olives while protecting the soil and capturing rainwater. Today, many of these historic groves are still producing olives and form part of the cultural landscape of the Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most characteristic olive variety on the island is the Mallorquina or Empeltre, known for producing a smooth, fruity olive oil with a balanced flavour. In recent years, Mallorcan olive oil has gained increasing recognition thanks to its quality and the protected designation Oli de Mallorca, which guarantees its origin and traditional production methods.
From grove to table
The production process still combines traditional knowledge with modern techniques. The olive harvest usually takes place between October and January, depending on the weather and the ripeness of the fruit.
In many groves, olives are still picked by hand or with small mechanical tools designed to protect both the fruit and the trees. Once harvested, the olives are taken to the mill, where they are pressed to extract the oil.
The result is a product deeply connected to the land: an olive oil shaped by Mallorca’s soil, climate and Mediterranean character. In local cooking it appears almost everywhere, drizzled over bread, vegetables, fish or simple salads that allow the ingredient itself to shine.
For many Mallorcans, a meal begins with something very simple: rustic bread, olive oil and a pinch of salt. Sometimes that’s all you need.
Discover Mallorca’s most authentic side
Understanding products like olive oil also means understanding the rhythm and traditions of the island. Visiting olive groves, mills or local markets offers a glimpse into the work behind one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic ingredients.
From Hotel Ca’n Bonico, located in the peaceful village of Ses Salines, it’s easy to explore the south of Mallorca and discover this culinary culture. Local markets, restaurants and small shops nearby provide many opportunities to taste authentic Majorcan products.
Our hotel reopened on 10th March, marking the start of a new season. Surrounded by gardens, relaxed breakfasts and the calm atmosphere that defines this part of the island, Ca’n Bonico is the perfect place to experience Mallorca at a slower pace.
Because Mallorca isn’t only something you visit, it’s something you taste.