Forget preconceived notions of formal gardens or traditional visits. The Sa Torre Cega Gardens offer something different: sculptures emerging from the vegetation, trees steeped in history, and corners that invite leisurely observation. Russell Page's design imprints character on an estate where the Mediterranean and art coexist in harmony, without rigidity. This article is an invitation to discover, at your own pace and with curiosity, the history, botany, and secrets that Capdepera guards behind its hedges. Ready to explore what lies beyond?

The historical legacy of Sa Torre Cega

Every great story has a starting point, and Sa Torre Cega's begins in 1915. That's when the March Servera couple acquired the estate, a privileged enclave on the coast of Capdepera that housed an old watchtower. This structure, known as "Torre Cega" (Blind Tower) because it wasn't visible from other watchtowers, served as inspiration for a project that would transcend its original function. The family's vision wasn't just to build a recreational villa but to create a space where architecture, art, and landscape conversed in harmony.

To bring this idea to life, they entrusted Guillem Reynés Font, one of Mallorca's most notable architects of the early 20th century. Reynés designed a regionalist-style building that solidly integrated with its surroundings, laying the foundation for what would become an architectural landmark. However, the most significant transformation would come decades later, in the 1960s and 70s, at the hands of his son, Bartolomé March Servera. With a vanguard sensibility, he modernized the property and, together with English landscape architect Russell Page, spearheaded the creation of the gardens. It was during this period that Sa Torre Cega evolved from a family residence into a cultural and botanical space, a legacy reflecting its founders' passion for beauty in all its forms.

Art as a silent protagonist

From the 1960s and 70s, Bartolomé March championed an idea uncommon for his time: integrating contemporary sculptures into the heart of the garden, away from conventional exhibition spaces. His vision was accompanied by a careful selection of pieces from various artistic movements, installed with a criterion designed not only to fascinate but to elicit a different reaction from each visitor and in each season.

The collection includes works by renowned international artists from the second half of the 20th century, finding refuge among olive trees, cypresses, and paths carpeted with aromatic plants. Represented, for example, are Henry Moore and Eduardo Chillida, figures whose works convey both the power of the material and discretion in placement. These sculptures interact with the advancement of sunlight, spring rains, or the Tramuntana wind, transforming their perception and inviting the viewer to look twice at the dialogue between structure and foliage. While strolling, it's possible to encounter abstract pieces in marble or bronze, configured to surprise among the vegetation or frame a perspective towards the sea.

The curatorial criteria promoted by Bartolomé March paid attention to the relationship of scale, color, and volume with the environment, seeking for the sculptures not to hide nature but to enhance it. Each work is located to take advantage of angles of light and shadow, and also to be discovered on the less common detours of the walk. Thus, art remains silent, yet essential, weaving an alternative narrative within the Sa Torre Cega Gardens, where contemplation is always unexpected and the imprint of human creativity becomes a living part of the landscape.

A botanical paradise in the heart of Mallorca

If art and history are the soul of Sa Torre Cega, botany is, without a doubt, its heart. The design by British landscape architect Russell Page in the 1960s was a masterpiece of Mediterranean sensibility, a transformation that turned Capdepera's hill into a living, changing garden that renews itself with each season. Page didn't just organize the space; he composed a botanical symphony intertwining local flora—such as olive trees, pines, and robust cypresses—with carefully selected exotic species to provide contrast and color throughout the year.

A stroll through the Sa Torre Cega Gardens is an immersive experience in Mallorcan biodiversity. Large trees provide structure and coolness, while areas of Mediterranean shrubs, like mastic and oleander, mark soft transitions between different environments. Lavender and rosemary blend with thyme, santolina, and sage, filling the air with fragrances at every step. Along the paths, clumps of bougainvillea, strawberry trees, and dwarf palms burst into color in spring and summer, while in autumn, the garden takes on golden and coppery hues thanks to species like pomegranate and certain maple varieties.

Russell Page conceived a series of terraces interspersed with fountains and retaining walls, favoring distinct microclimates. This arrangement allows shade plants like ferns and cyclamen to thrive in protected nooks, while in open areas, agaves, aloes, and other varieties resistant to sun and sea breeze are cultivated. The route is designed to surprise: after a sheltered path, a panoramic view or a meadow dotted with poppies and wild lilies suddenly opens up.

The botanical richness is not only appreciated in the diversity of species but also in how the garden changes with the seasons. The explosion of flowers in spring is followed by the full greenery of summer, the ochre fruits and leaves in autumn, and the sober silhouettes of winter. Thus, each visit offers a different sensory experience, celebrating nature in all its forms.

Your visit: secrets and details not to miss

A visit to the Sa Torre Cega Gardens is an experience enhanced by preparation. To make the most of your tour, it's essential to know some practical details that will help you discover its best-kept secrets.

While the guided tour sets the pace, we recommend paying attention to details that often go unnoticed. For example, the estate has been the setting for international film shoots. As you wander, you can imagine stars like Sean Connery, Michael Caine, or Anne Hathaway walking these same paths during the filming of movies such as Woman of Straw (1964) or The Hustle (2019).

A highlight you shouldn't miss is the imposing staircase leading to the house, a remnant of Guillem Reynés' original design that, though modified, still conveys the grandeur of the initial project. As you explore, look for the natural viewpoints that Russell Page integrated into his design; they not only offer spectacular views of Cala Ratjada but are the perfect spot to understand how the garden dialogues with the sea. Take a moment to observe how the light filters through the pine trees and falls on the sculptures, transforming them throughout the day. This interaction between art, nature, and light is the true essence of Sa Torre Cega.

Connect with the essence of Mallorca at Predi Son Jaumell

Visiting the Sa Torre Cega Gardens is just one of the unique experiences that are part of our carefully curated selection of activities to discover Mallorca from Predi Son Jaumell. Our goal is for each guest to immerse themselves in Mediterranean nature, explore local traditions, and enjoy moments of authentic relaxation. We invite you to design your personalized stay: from cycling routes through charming landscapes, golf days on top-tier courses, to outdoor yoga mornings—all designed to connect you with the true spirit of the island. We want every experience to be unique and for you to feel the magic of Mallorca in a different way.

After a day full of sensations, our rural hotel becomes the ideal refuge for rest. Our outdoor pools invite relaxation while enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The spacious and meticulously detailed suites combine elegance and maximum comfort, with views that capture the essence of the island.

Additionally, we offer a wide range of services and wellness proposals that will complete your experience: personalized treatments, quality local gastronomy, and attentive service to make your stay even more special. At Predi Son Jaumell, we take care of every detail to make every moment unforgettable.

We invite you to discover Mallorca through our experiences and enjoy a unique stay.