Son Vida is Mallorca’s most prestigious hillside neighbourhood, only ten minutes from Palma’s centre and fifteen from the airport. Known as “the Beverly Hills of Mallorca,” it offers large villas, panoramic sea views, three golf courses, and full 24-hour security. It’s private, international, and designed for a relaxed yet connected lifestyle. Here’s your luxury property guide to Son Vida…
Need to Know
- Location: Hills west of Palma, southwest Mallorca
- Travel: ~10 minutes to Palma centre, ~15 minutes to airport
- Community: International mix of full-time residents and second-home owners
- Amenities: 3 championship golf courses, 5-star spa hotels, fine dining
- Schools & Health: Several international schools and private hospitals within 10–15 minutes
Lifestyle
Life in Son Vida balances privacy and leisure with easy access to Palma. Most homes are set on large plots with gardens, pools, and outdoor dining terraces, making entertaining at home a central part of daily life. Residents often split their time between golf, fitness and spa routines, and enjoying Palma’s restaurants and boutiques.
The community has a distinctly international feel, with neighbours from across Europe and beyond. Despite the exclusivity, the area remains discreet rather than flashy, which appeals to those looking for understated luxury.
Golf
Golf is the beating heart of Son Vida’s lifestyle. The area is unique in Mallorca for offering three championship courses within minutes of each other.
- Golf Son Vida – the island’s oldest course (1964), known for its tree-lined fairways and history of hosting two European Tour events. Elevated holes give panoramic views over Palma and the bay.
- Golf Son Muntaner – a technically challenging, immaculately maintained course surrounded by lush greenery. Home to Mallorca’s only Hole in One Club and boasting a driving range with Toptracer technology, it appeals to keen golfers looking to improve their game.
- Golf Son Quint – the youngest course, more open in design, making it forgiving for beginners but still enjoyable for experienced players. Its elevated position offers striking city views.
Together, these courses create both a sporting hub and a social scene, with tournaments, member events, and golf academies that add to the international community feel.
Hotels & Spa’s
Two five-star hotels anchor the leisure offering:
- Castillo Hotel Son Vida – a historic castle-style hotel, an icon of luxury on Mallorca. It features fine dining terraces, indoor and outdoor pools, a spa with panoramic views, and a setting that attracts celebrities and dignitaries.
- Sheraton Mallorca Arabella Golf Hotel – more contemporary and family-friendly, set right beside the courses. It offers multiple restaurants, tennis courts, and a well-equipped spa and fitness centre.
Both hotels are open year-round, which means residents can enjoy wellness retreats, spa treatments, fitness facilities, and gourmet dining just minutes from their villas — especially valuable in the quieter winter months.
Dining and Restaurants
Son Vida itself is residential, so most residents dine either at the hotel restaurants or make the short drive to Palma.
- In Son Vida: Es Castell Restaurant at Castillo Hotel Son Vida offers Mediterranean fine dining with spectacular night views over the bay; Es Ví specialises in Spanish cuisine with a strong wine cellar; the Sheraton also has relaxed dining perfect for family meals.
- In Palma: Within 10 minutes, you reach the city’s vibrant culinary scene — from Michelin-starred restaurants like Marc Fosh and Adrián Quetglas, to stylish tapas bars and seafront dining along Paseo Marítimo.
Fall and Winter Highlights
- Autumn Golf Season: Cooler months are prime for golf on Son Vida, Son Muntaner, and Son Quint courses.
- Hiking & Nature: Trails nearby offer crisp air and changing colours in autumn.
- Wellness & Spa: Both Castillo Hotel Son Vida and Sheraton Arabella stay lively in the cooler months with indoor pools, gyms, and spa treatments.
- Cultural Season: Palma’s art galleries, concerts, theatres, and winter markets are all within a short drive.
- Festive Palma: Christmas markets, street lights, and cosy cafés bring a different side of the city close to home.
The Property Market
- Luxury Market: Son Vida is at the very top end of Mallorca’s property ladder. Villas here typically start at €2–3M, with new contemporary builds and estates with prime views reaching €10M–20M+.
- General Market: Supply is limited, and properties in “Old Son Vida” or with south-west orientation command premium pricing. Demand is consistent from international buyers, both for permanent homes and secure second residences.
- Rental Demand: Strong for long-term rentals, particularly among families and professionals relocating to Palma.
Things to Know Before Buying
- Plots & Orientation: South- and west-facing villas often have the best sunsets and sea views. Sloped plots are common and may add to building costs.
- Security: Gated entrances and 24-hour patrols give the area its reputation for safety and privacy.
- Transport: A car is essential, as public transport is limited inside Son Vida.
- Costs: Community fees and maintenance are higher than in most areas, but reflect the quality of services and infrastructure.
- Market Scarcity: Premium plots and homes rarely come up, so buyers should be prepared to act quickly.
Property Feature Snapshot
A look into our favorite Son Vida listings, whether it’s flagship villas, new contemporary builds, or standout estates.
Exceptional Sea-View Estate in Son Vida
Unmatched Elegance and Luxury in the Heart of Son Vida
Exclusive Modern Villa in Son Vida with Panoramic Bay Views and Luxury Amenities
For further information on any of the above listings or if you’d like to speak with one of the team about our Luxury Property Guide to Son Vida, please contact us directly.
