The best way to think of Es Migjorn is as a hidden jewel of a town a few kilometres south of the main cross-island road on the way to the beach resort of Santo Tomas. Because it has a bypass it can easily be missed.

However, whilst en route to their hotels and villas, on the coast, holidaymakers should make a point of visiting this highly original spot. It is set in lovely countryside and all three approach roads — from west of Alaior, from Mercadal and from Ferreries — pass through rolling hills and farmland.

The town itself is unspoilt with some lovely gardens and charming narrow streets, and there is a fine old church. It has several bars and cafes; it also boasts some of the better restaurants on the island, mostly with good views of the countryside. Possibly because of its position and its charm, it has become the home to some 20 or so artists.

There is an Art Gallery and an Art Fair which takes place for two evenings during August. During the Fair visitors can walk into the artists’ houses to see their exhibited work. All the bars and cafes spill out into the streets and a festive atmosphere prevails.

There is also a very popular open-air evening market which takes place from 7pm to midnight on July 3, 17 and 24, August 7, 14, 21 and 28 and September 4.

All sorts of local produce, artefacts, antiques and clothes are for sale. In the early evening there is special entertainment for children and, later, live music for all to enjoy.

Free buses are available for visitors and residents. to come up from Santo Tomas for all these festivities and the town is closed to traffic.

Ample free parking is available in the nearby municipal car park.

There must be something in the air in Es Migjorn for, until a few years ago, the world’s oldest man (according to the Guinness Book of records) lived there and after his death left behind two brothers, one over 100 and the other in his 90s.

See & Do.....