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Anna Nicholas - Local Author
Local resident and author of many Mallorca based novels
Author Anna Nicholas has been a resident in Mallorca for nearly 15 years. She shares her experiences of life on the island in her entertaining series of books, the sixth of which, A Chorus of Cockerels, has just been published. She also writes a weekly column for the Daily Majorcan Bulletin.
How did the idea come to move to Mallorca?
Many years ago my sister Cecilia hired a Mallorcan au pair named Sari and she became a great family friend. She hailed from Fornalutx village in the northwest of the island and told us that the Soller valley was the most beautiful place on earth so naturally we decided to take her at her word. My husband and I visited Deia on holiday and were spellbound by the natural and authentic beauty of the rugged northwest of Mallorca.
We returned to the Soller valley for summer holidays, renting local fincas. On one occasion a zealous estate agent popped by and suggested for fun that we take a look at some run-down old properties in the hills. We had no intention of buying a home but when we drove into the courtyard of our ancient finca, a complete ruin, it was love at first sight. It was a spontaneous decision to purchase the house and one we have never regretted.
Why did you choose Soller as a location?
Soller is a proper working town all year round unlike some resorts that become ghost towns out of season. There are wonderful fiestas going on every month and it is a vibrant and bustling town with beautiful architecture and superb museums. I like the fact that it is a very authentic area of the island and that Mallorquí dialect is the main language spoken. We are close to the majestic Tramuntanas and yet have the advantage of being a hop and a skip from the sea.
What makes Mallorca a special place to be for someone in your profession?
Soller is a rich cultural centre for writers, musicians and artists, something that I find hugely energising. We also have an excellent bookshop and regular cultural events and art exhibitions.
What are the best bits about your job?
I love doing research for my books and articles. It has become an indulgence and affords me the luxury of roaming the island in search of hidden jewels. Meeting fascinating people is another perk of the job which I relish.
What are the worst bits about your job?
Hm. I suppose the discipline of having to write books to deadline and sometimes having to juggle too many plates. I find chatting with my hens and frogs is an antidote to stress in the writing room!
You've just published your 6th novel in the Mallorca travel series, will there be more?
A very good question! I honestly don’t know. If the demand is there – and the will – possibly.
What's your next project?
I have written a cosy-ish crime novel set in Mallorca which I would like to become a series. Time will tell.
Where would you send someone who was after that something 'something special' to stay, eat or drink?
There are so many glorious and special places in Mallorca but I’d always go for an old favourite such as La Residencia hotel in Deia. In terms of dining I’d direct people to C'as Patro March for a fresh fish supper in Cala Deia, or Kingfisher restaurant in Port Soller.
Where will we find the best coffee, paella or empanades?
For my money one of the best paellas is served at Es Turo in Fornalutx, and also at Sa Foradada restaurant overlooking the sea en route to Valldemossa.
It’s hard to beat historic Can Joan de S’Aigo for hot chocolate and cake in Palma although I’m a fan of the Fibonacci and Cappuccino chains for coffee.
Delicious, home cooked empanadas can be found at my favourite Soller bakery, La Larena.
What has been your best day in Mallorca?
There have been many but probably my fact-finding trip to nature reserve, Cabrera island, with leading biologist, Isabel Moreno, previously head of biology at the University of the Baleares, was a highlight.
Do you remember your first trip to the Island?
Yes I most certainly do. I was celebrating my birthday and as a surprise my husband Alan booked us into La Residencia Hotel in Deia. It was a magical visit!
I hear you're on an expedition to the Colombian Amazon next year. How exciting! But what do you miss most when you are away from the island?
When I go on expeditions with my old chum, Colonel John Blashford-Snell, the veteran British explorer, I miss the sound of my raucous quacking frogs, hair conditioner, hot water and clean clothes. Such humanitarian aid trips are fascinating and good for the soul and boy, do you appreciate a few home comforts – and your family -when you return!
