Can Cardaix

Can Cardaix (also known as Son Cardaix) is a historic country house in Artà, on the eastern side of Mallorca, converted into a small rural hotel. The building dates back to the 15th century and, after careful restoration, still carries a genuinely Mallorcan feel — thick stone walls, wooden beams, and a quiet, rural setting surrounded by olive and almond groves.

Where exactly is it located?

Can Cardaix sits on the Artà peninsula, in the north-east of the island, just a few minutes from the town of Artà itself. The area is known for wild, uncrowded beaches, hiking trails, and natural parks — a real contrast to the busier resorts of the south coast. From here it's a short drive to popular east-coast destinations like Cala Ratjada and Cala Millor, both offering sandy beaches and full tourist infrastructure.

How do you get there?

The easiest way is by car. From Palma de Mallorca airport, the drive takes under an hour, mostly along the Ma-15 motorway toward Manacor, then local roads into Artà. Renting a car is practically essential here, since the surrounding area is spread out and its attractions — beaches, trails, villages — are scattered across the peninsula. Travelers without a car can take buses to Artà from Palma and Manacor, but the final stretch to the property itself usually requires a taxi or a transfer arranged through the hotel.

What is there to see and do on site?

The building itself is worth the visit — nine rooms furnished with attention to detail, most with private terraces overlooking the gardens and orchards. The grounds include a garden, a sun terrace for relaxing, and a golf course. For guests wanting something more active, yoga classes are offered, and the on-site restaurant serves two daily menus plus à la carte dishes every day except Wednesday, when the kitchen is closed.

Nearby, it's worth heading into the town of Artà, where the Sant Salvador pilgrimage church dominates the skyline and offers one of the best viewpoints in the area. The town has narrow, picturesque streets, a weekly market, and a handful of small museums. Nature lovers can explore the trails of the Llevant natural park or walk the cliffside paths toward Cala Ratjada.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are the best windows — temperatures are mild, the almond and olive groves around the property are at their most attractive, and the beaches aren't yet crowded. Summer (July–August) brings the warmest weather and full beach season, but also more visitors along the coast. Winter is quieter and rainier, but suits travelers looking for peace and longer walks without the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Can Cardaix a good base for a longer relaxing stay? Yes — nine spacious rooms, a garden, a sun terrace, and a golf course make it a solid choice for a few days of rest away from the crowds, with easy access to the beaches of the east coast.

How far is it from the beach? The nearest popular beaches, Cala Ratjada and Cala Millor, are a short drive from the property.

Can you eat on site? Yes, the property has its own restaurant with a daily menu and à la carte options; the kitchen is closed on Wednesdays.

Is there anything to see nearby besides the beaches? Definitely — the town of Artà with its Sant Salvador church, the trails of the Llevant natural park, and the scenic coastline toward Cala Ratjada are the most common day trips from Can Cardaix.