Alaró smells like autumn: mushrooms, the Plaça and small discoveries

Alaró smells like autumn: mushrooms, the Plaça and little discoveries

When the church bells ring over the Plaça in the morning and the clatter of the market stalls slowly fades away, an earthy scent drifts through the alleys of Alaró: mushrooms. The small but lovely food fair 'Cuina amb bolets' brings these aromas to around 15 venues in the old town — and the best part: people take their time. No rigid schedule, no gala, just relaxed tasting in familiar surroundings. The event runs until December 8.

Mornings on the Plaça

The day often starts here with a cup of café con leche and the chatter of the stallholders. Between crates and baskets you hear conversations about the best mushroom find of the week. If you come at midday you meet locals grabbing a quick tapa after the market, and the street cafés are often well filled around 1:00 pm. The sun can still warm the stone pavements, inviting you to sit on a bench and soak up the scent.

Evening stroll: lanterns, glasses and mushroom ideas

In the evening, between roughly 8:00 pm and 11:00 pm, the alleys come alive. Lanterns cast a warm glow, you hear the clink of glasses, and suddenly people are discussing mushroom croquettes, pan-fried dishes or unusual combinations. The participating dishes range from classic tapas like mushroom croquettes to bolder creations: mushroom mousse, mushroom burgers — and yes, mushroom ice cream as a conversation starter. Many venues offer small portions; perfect for testing three or four stops in one evening.

Where to start

The natural starting point is the Plaça. A look over the market, a quick coffee, then stroll up the Carrer Major. Small side streets are often where chefs experiment — that's where you'll find the unusual flavors. Tip: lunch menus and combo offers are kinder to the wallet. And: comfortable shoes are a must. Cobblestones and narrow lanes are charming, but you'll feel them when walking.

What makes the festival special

It's precisely the intimacy that gives it its charm. No big event, no long queues — instead families after an autumn walk, market visitors squeezing in a tapa, and curious guests wanting to discover authentic island cuisine. Many venues point out vegetarian and vegan options. Mushrooms prove to be a versatile ingredient: they go well with sobrasada, local cheese and, of course, a glass of Mallorcan wine.

Why this is good for Mallorca

Small festivals like this strengthen places away from the big beaches. Alaró benefits: a few extra visitors over a weekend mean turnover for bars, bakeries and craft shops. At the same time, visitors discover the quiet, authentic side of the island — with Tramuntana views instead of beach photos. In short: it helps extend the season, secure jobs and connect local tradition with new ideas.

Practical information and outlook

The full list of participating venues is available from the municipality, but often the best recommendation is simply: start walking. If you plan to come in a larger group in the evening, book in advance. And for the adventurous: try unusual combinations — maybe the mushroom ice cream will be the surprise of the evening. When the Tramuntana whistles through the valley at night and the lights of the Plaça glow warmly, such a mushroom stroll feels almost like a little island magic.

Enjoy your meal and have fun wandering between church, market stalls and Tramuntana views — Alaró shows how autumn can taste.