One of Majorca's most beautiful towns is home to one of its most inspiring locations. Over the centuries, the Real Cartuja de Valldemossa – or Royal Charterhouse – has been the haunt of kings, monks, composers, painters and writers. Today, the palace reflects the glory of their legacy and is a treasure-trove of historic mementos.
Time looks like it has stood still in the Tramuntana Mountains town of Valldemossa. And the Charterhouse – which dates back to the 14th century, when King Sancho built his palace here – is no different. It later became a monastery for the Carthusian order. Everything changed in the 1830s, when the monks moved out and classical composer Frederic Chopin moved in with his novelist lover George Sand.
Wander around its lavishly decorated drawing rooms and leathery library. Check out the artworks and antique furnishings inside and then explore the cloisters and garden. The Charterhouse is steeped in history and well worth a visit.