Suitably named the star of the Mediterranean, Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands, despite stretching just 100km from east to west. A popular destination for trendsetters and royalty, this vibrant haven has something special to offer each visitor who steps ashore. From rugged mountain ranges to pristine sandy beaches, charming fishing villages to intriguing medieval towns, the island of Mallorca is the quintessential holiday destination. Whether you are planning a relaxing coastal retreat to one of the spectacular villas in Mallorca or celebrating with friends in lively Magaluf, Mallorca will leave you wanting more.
Palma is the largest city on the island and home to the towering gothic Palma Cathedral which overlooks the Bay of Palma and welcomes visitors who arrive by sea. From here, visitors can escape to a secluded hideaway in the countryside where fruitful olive groves and citrus orchards are abundant. Or they can head for the coastal town of Puerto Portals, where expensive boutiques, flashy cars and glamorous celebrities are typical. Some may seek solitude at the monastery which is perched high in the Tramuntana Mountains and others may explore the magical cave systems that are scattered over the island. For many though, it is simply the serenity of the beach that is calling them to the meandering coasts of Mallorca.
With accommodation to suit every traveller and located all over the island, visitors will be spoiled for choice when searching for villas in Mallorca. To escape the hustle of the busier towns, look for accommodation in areas such as Soller, Fornalutx or Pollenca. For accommodation in a rural setting, consider towns such as Orient and Arta. If it’s the lively atmosphere you’re searching for, then stick to vibrant spots such as Palma and Magaluf. Classic architecture, modern facilities and traditionally styled, our villas in Mallorca are the ideal accommodation choice.
Read on for our comprehensive run-down on Mallorca.
Contents
- History of Mallorca
- Beaches in Mallorca
- Regions & cities of Mallorca
- Getting to Mallorca
- Getting around Mallorca
- Styles of villas in Mallorca
- Architecture
- Mallorca Climate
- What to do in Mallorca
- Weddings
- Yoga/relaxation
- Eating out
- Language
History of Mallorca
A dramatic interior and rich in history, the island of Mallorca has seen its share of conquerors, invaders and settlers over the centuries. It wasn’t until the 1950’s that the island became a destination for tourists. Before then the first people to inhabit the land were hunter gatherers dating back to around 7200BC. Mallorca was centrally located along an ancient trading route where trading posts were set up which became part of the Carthaginian trading empire from North Africa. Around 123 BC the Romans conquered the land and for almost 600 years the island was linked with Rome.
The main Roman towns of Pollentia, near Alcudia and Campa Palmeria now called Palma were established during this time and the principal economic activities were olive cultivation, viniculture and salt mining. Relative prosperity ensued until the Balearic Islands were captured in 426AD by the Vandals, who razed Pollentia for the second time in a century, causing surviving locals to establish the new town, Pollenca, inland where it remains to this day.
The Moors landed in Mallorca in 707AD when a peace treaty was signed, however by 903AD the locals had all been converted to the Arab ways and Palma was renamed to Medina Mayurqa. 300 or so years went by of Arab dominance before Mallorca was sacked to become part of the Catalan Empire in 1229. A prosperous era followed where most of Mallorca’s impressive architecture was built including Bellver Castle. Mallorca was attacked in 1936 during the Spanish civil war but the locals ultimately succeeded in defending the island.
Today the island retains much of its historical zest through it’s ancient ruins, old picturesque towns and villages, churches, grand mansions and the magnificent gothic cathedral in Palma’s city centre. For history lovers, an island certainly worth a visit.
Beaches in Mallorca
Crystal clear turquoise waters, idyllic pine clad bays lapped by the Mediterranean with beautiful white sand, this is the quintessential Mallorcan beach. As the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca boasts miles of coastline prime for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Despite their popularity with tourists, most beaches remain peaceful and well-conserved. You will find pretty inlets, natural landscapes, intimate coves below dramatic cliffs and wild natural beaches that are only accessible by foot. Each beach has its own personality and unique location. In more remote areas some beaches remain very rarely visited, untouched by tourism, you can discover your own private slice of paradise.
Mallorca is home to over 120 beaches and coves dotted along its coastline. On the North coast, the largest beach is found in Alcudia which features 4 miles of soft white sand, backed by the Port d’Alcúdia resort, other hotels and villas in Mallorca.
One of the main tourist beaches is located in Magaluf, near Palma. A beautiful 900 meters long beach with fine sand and clear water but this beach does get very busy in the summer months.
There are many stunning beaches in all of the resort towns which are easy to find and too numerous to list. So read on for some of the most stunning and more remote beaches to explore:
Es Trenc Beach
A large undeveloped beach with fine white sand and crystal clear water in the south of the island. The water is truly spectacular here, clear turquoise blue like the Caribbean, shallow and calm, with occasional waves created by the wind. The beach is backed by sand dunes, some rocky outcrops, shrubs and pines.
Cala Figuera Beach
Located deep within a cove on the Formentor peninsula, northern Mallorca, with high mountains on both sides of the water. The mountains make a great scene for a swim in the completely clear water with spectacular views. It is a quieter experience than most of the other beaches in Mallorca and very relaxing. Natural beach with no facilities.
Son Serra De Marina Beach
A very long virgin beach with no facilities on the north east coast of Mallorca. This beach is of sand, stone and rocks with fine views across stunning turquoise waters towards the sheer limestone cliffs of Cap de Formentor.
Cala Murta Beach
Located on the Formentor peninsula North Mallorca lies this small secluded beach with fine white sand and transparent water. This beautiful remote beach is hidden deep inside a bay surrounded by cliffs and is only 80 metres long and 20 metres wide.
Es Carbo Beach
A quiet, hardly developed remote beach south east of Mallorca. Es Carbo is over 1 kilometre long and is only accessible by foot or by boat, making this beach a favourite among locals.
Regions & cities of Mallorca
The island of Mallorca is split into distinct regions: Serra de Tramuntana all along the west coast, Palma de Mallorca in the south, Pla de Mallorca in the north east and down towards central, Raiguer covering the north east & central, Migjorn in the south and llevant in the East.
Alternatively, North, South, East,West & central. Each of which are quite different to experience.
You will find the majority of Mallorca villas dotted around the East and west coasts with some hideaway houses perched in the mountains with incredible backdrops of the Mallorcan countryside.
See below for information on each region of this picturesque and interesting Island:
North Mallorca:
Northern Mallorca is the quietest, most picturesque and the heart and soul of the island. The coast line is a glorious mix of rugged mountains dotted with white sandy bays. Cultured towns and lively fiestas, adventure sports including the worlds most exciting windy roads makes this a cyclists dream.
Alcudia/Port d’Alcudia
Perfect for combining beach and cycling, It’s known for its Mediterranean beaches, which include the busy Platja d’Alcúdia and Platja de Muro on the sweeping Alcúdia Bay. The neo-Gothic Sant Jaume church is built into the town’s restored medieval walls. These walls encircle the well-preserved old town, which has narrow streets and centuries-old buildings.
Pollensa/Puerto Pollensa
Charming little city in the north and home to a good Sunday market. beach resort in the north of the island, popular with families
Sa Pobla
Small, rural municipality in the district of Raiguer located below the north of the Island between Inca and Alcúdia . The city hosts a fantastic Jazz Festival.
East & North East Mallorca:
A tourists dream destination for many. Classed as one of the prettiest coastlines, East Mallorca has something for everyone. Yes there are sections that are quite lively with many busy hotel resorts but you will also find tranquil truly authentic inlets with turquoise waters and hardly a hotel in sight. Areas like Porto Cristo with concealed caves and coves, some of which are only accessible by foot and are fairly undeveloped. Some of the resorts are rather quite charming, for example Portocolom, Portopetro and Canyamel are all worth a visit. Drive inland to experience the natural rural terrain, stay in one of islands hidden luxury villas in Mallorca and take a bike ride or hike to off-the-beaten-path beaches such as Cala Varques or Cala Romantica. The central east coast is a great place to base yourself to take in the sights by car, explore the caves, including the natural interior and the north east and south east of the island.
To the north east, you’ll find wild stretches of natural park, plus stunning medieval towns, such as Artà and Capdepera. You will experience nature at it’s best here in amongst the islands peaceful surroundings, the wild stretches of natural parkland with fig and almond trees in abundance. The sunrise’s here are incredible and there are some great experiences to be had here, like hiking, horse riding and bird watching.
Cala Ratjada
Located in the far north-east corner of the island this resort offers a wide variety of shops and the local market takes place on a Saturday, where as well as fruit and vegetables there is a large selection of leather goods, shoes and clothes, as well as locally made table cloths and honey. The resort has a large horseshoe shaped beach backed by tourist hotels, along with two other beaches to choose from.
Manacor
The third largest city, famous for its furniture shops and pearl factories. There is also a large shop on the outskirts of the town that specialises in products made from the wood of the olive tree.
Cala d’Or
Resort on the east coast, well known for its annual Jazz Festival and yacht marina along Cala Llonga. The shores are dotted with pine-fringed coves, including the main beach, Cala Gran.
Cala Moreia
Another resort with a quirky urban beach on the east coast. Perfect base for access to golf courses and smaller beaches.
Cala Millor
Eastern coastal holiday town, linked by a long promenade to the adjacent resort of Cala Bona. Cala Millor is the largest tourist development on the east coast of the island. The Main attraction is its extensive beach of fine sand with crystalline waters.
South Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca, the Islands capital and what a picturesque and interesting city it is. Arrive here by plane, hire a car and from here you can explore the south of the island from Palma city down through the least developed of coastlines and across to Cala d’or in the south east. Blissful beaches, sleepy authentic inland towns, lively resorts and water sports galore, the south of the island has it all. With the exception of the resorts of El Arenal and Can Pastilla, this region is more chilled out with quaint fishing harbours, pristine beaches with pockets of paradise backed by pristine nature reserves. This part of the island has some of Mallorca’s best beaches. It has a much less touristy vibe than the southwest, undeveloped with endless kilometres of coastline fringed with high cliffs which are not always accessible but raw and beautiful with the Mediterranean sea lapping at their feet.
Palma de Mallorca
Mallorca’s main, largest and capital city rich in history. Arrive at Palma airport and explore this cultural hub of Mallorca. Filled with castles, museums, cool cafe’s and the star of the show, the gothic cathedral. It is also a delightful base for exploring the island’s many sandy beaches and picturesque villages.
West & South West Mallorca
Some of the islands most picturesque towns and pretty villages are located here on the west coast. Wander the maze-like lanes and be in awe, like so many artists, poets and celebrities before you. Perched on the hilltops and valleys, nestled amongst olive groves and pine trees, are some of the best architectural finca’s and villas in Mallorca with fantastic mountain and sea views. The dramatic coastline backed by mountain ranges will draw you in as you sit and stare at their beauty as the sun goes down. You may have your best moments of clarity and inspiration here. The turquoise sea, the fresh air, the quiet and peaceful sounds of nature, the Mediterranean vibe.
The Serra de Tramuntana range along the west coast is a great area to hike highland trails or bike along unique roads and steep inclines. Take in the stunning sights by boat and eat at some of the islands most iconic famous restaurants. West Mallorca in our opinion has the most romantic, authentic and inspirational spots to take your breath away.
The southwest begins at Palma de Mallorca and stretches up to Puerto Andratx. Easy to get to being not too far away from Palma airport, makes an ideal quieter spot as a base to explore the surrounding areas. There are many day trips you can take from here. Hop on a boat on the crystal clear sea to discover little inlets and coves like the exquisite coves of Portals Vells or head over to Illa de Sa Dragonera. Mallorca’s greatest walk (Ruta de Pedra en Sec) begins here too. Large groups of friends or families could choose to stay inland for ultimate peace and relaxation at one of the many luxury and stylish villas in Mallorca.
Soller
Pretty town set in fantastic mountainous scenery. The town is 3 km inland from the Port de Sóller, in a large, bowl-shaped valley.
Valldemossa
This charming village in an idyllic valley in the Tramuntana mountains is a must see. Car-free cobbled alleys and rich cultural heritage. Chopin spent here a winter with George Sand.
Deià
Small pretty village in the Tramuntana mountains. It is located about 16 kilometres north of Valldemossa, and it is known for its literary, musical and artist residents.
Fornalutx
One of the most attractive villages on the west coast, built of pale sandstone and set under the gaze of the mountains and a good starting point for hikers. The nearest town is Sóller, which can be reached by foot via a series of footpaths and pathways via the hamlet of Binibassi.
Esporles
Small village between Banyalbufar and Valldemossa and just 12 Km from Palma de Mallorca. At the foot of the Tramuntana mountains, This pretty village retains much of its original charm with typical stone faced houses, winding streets and also enjoys excellent access to the motorway network and major amenities.
Central Mallorca
Although the coast and beaches are no more than an hour away, central Mallorca feels light years away. Meadows with olive, almond and carob trees are in abundance. Vineyards and fruit trees full of vibrant oranges and lemons dot the landscape. Hilltop monasteries and church villages where locals guard their traditions and spirited festivals. You will also find local crafts in villages throughout the heart of the island. Pot making, glass blowing and shoe making are among the most traditional of mallorcan crafts. Drive through and explore this fine interior and stop off for wine tastings. Stay at tucked away farms, country houses or luxury villa’s, swim in a private pool with a view and and go for a stroll in the peaceful countryside. Central Mallorca will make you slow down and grab a piece of your heart.
Inca
The second largest city, renown for its leather factories. The Camper shoe brand is produced here. This city has lovely cafes and bars, and the town’s main church is certainly worth a visit.
Sineu
The geographical heart of the island, a small village best visited on Wednesdays, the weekly market is enormous. The small and traditional town is steeped in history, every street is lined with interesting architecture and ancient blonde stone buildings.
Binissalem
Wine region. Binissalem was one of the original sites where wine was cultivated. Located to the north of Palma, this small town features an impressive cathedral and many fine local restaurants offering everything from simple tapas to traditional cuisine. Have an impressive feast and wash down with fine Mallorca wine.
Getting to Mallorca
You can take an aeroplane from many international airports and from anywhere in Europe and arrive into Palma’s International airport. From here you can hire a car or taxi to take you to anywhere on the Island. Alternatively you can arrive by ferry, cruise ship, by private yacht or charter vessel. There are many ports and marinas around the island, with the larger ones located in Palma and Alcudia. For smaller boats and yatchs, there are picturesque marinas such as Puerto Portals and Port Andriano.
Getting around Mallorca
Mallorca is quite a large Island compared to it’s smaller neighbour Islands in the Balearics, and is quite hilly in places. Hiring a car seams to be the best choice if you plan on visiting anywhere else apart from your chosen area of accommodation. You can easily rent a car for your whole trip or a few days either from the airport or any resort town. Although scooters and bike are available from most towns & villages if you just fancy a leisurely day trip to the nearby hot spots. And there is also a good bus & train service or take the popular traditional train ride El Tren de Soller from Palma all the way to Soller.
El Tren de Soller
One of the most loved excursions and transportation is the El Tren de Soller, a railway with a special scenic route that takes you from Palma to Soller. Over 100 years old and still running, the wooden narrow gauge train takes you back in time through some of the prettiest landscapes in Mallorca. Nearly 28 kilometers long, this winding route takes you through stunning mountain scenery, tunnels, bridges and a viaduct. Once in Soller, either take a stroll through the pretty town, enjoy the architecture & cafe culture or jump on a rickety tram to Port de Soller, one of the most picturesque & historical ports with a beach in Mallorca.
Styles of villas in Mallorca
There are many different styles of casa’s, finca’s and villas in Mallorca. Centuries-old farmhouses have been beautifully restored, with new houses built in traditional styles. You can find the most iconic designer villa’s dotted throughout the Island, many of which are newly built, or recently refurbished to the highest standard and lavishly furnished. For example ‘Villa Minerva‘ in Port Andratx with a spectacular sea view. Luxury contemporary design, pale walls, high-quality fabrics and furnishings in soft neutral tones are brightened up with modern artwork. A large modern villa with various outdoor terraces.
Mallorca has some traditional rustic villa’s in the countryside if you prefer to experience more of an authentic Island stay. With thick stone walls, designed to keep out the summer heat and retain warmth in the cooler months, wooden beams, shady terraces and, often, magnificent rural views, it is easy to see the reasons for their popularity. For example Casa Tamara, Traditional stone built villa, tastefully furnished and boasts the most wonderful views over the village of Deia, the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains.
From traditional to Ultra modern, Villa Gloria which was completely renovated in 2019, everything is state-of-the-art and incredibly stylish, with the emphasis firmly on luxury and comfort. This villa has a serious wow factor and is right next to the beach.
Whatever style of villa or casa you prefer, there is a wide variety and no doubt Mallorca will have the perfect one for you.
Architecture
Much of the islands architecture is historical with many iconic buildings, including some where Art Nouveau and Modernist styles are strongly evident. Renowned for it’s famous must see landmarks, the capital, Palma, is the starting point for most visits. Two of the most notable architectural masterpieces are the Edifici Casasayas and Pensión Menorquina, sitting on opposite sides of the street, the facades mirror each other in their Modernist, Art Nouveau styles. Opposite them, the Fundacio La Caixa, an art gallery, was once Palma’s first luxury hotel in 1903: the Gran Hotel. Many visitors will note the obvious influence that Gaudí, who spent 10 years on the island, had on the architects of all three of these early twentieth century buildings.
La Seu, Palma’s famous thirteenth-century cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece, which looks most magnificent when viewed from the sea.
Gaudí’s architectural influences continue in Soller and it’s striking town square. Designed largely by Rubio, the square includes the Modernist building that now houses the Bank of Sóller and an enormous church, which incorporates Romanesque, Baroque and Neo-Gothic elements.
Don’t forget to look up when walking the streets around the island’s cities, and you’ll be met with impressive and innovative pieces of architecture from across the ages.
Mallorca Climate
Mallorca has very agreeable Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, sun drenched summers sometimes accompanied by heavenly sea breezes. The average temperature ranges from 9.5 °C (49 °F) in January and February to 24.5 °C (76°F) in August.
Winter – From December to February the days are mild and generally sunny but also with periods of rain and wind. Sometimes, there can be cold and windy days, with highs below 10 °C (50 °F) On the clearer nights, it can get cold with the temperature near freezing.
Summer
From June to September the days are usually hot and sunny with occasional heat waves with highs of 35 °C (95°F).
Spring
April – May is a wonderful time to be exploring the lush green valleys, seeing the wild flowers and hiking without melting in the summer heat. There are far fewer people, so you can enjoy the top spots in peace.
Autumn
Slightly cooler temperatures than the peak summer months with the average around 20°C. Autumn in September and October, is a really pleasant time to visit, when the tourists have mostly gone home and the sea’s are still warm.
Best time of year to go to Mallorca
Mallorca is a year round destination. The amount of sunshine isn’t great in winter although it’s the quietest time of year on the island, and a different vibe exists, its even possible to have snow on the streets in Soller! However this time of year you can scoop a bargain on some of the best villas in Mallorca.
Spring is the start of the sunny season and where the island starts to wake up. Restaurants and shops begin to open but without the mass of tourists that you can get in the peak season and the weather is pleasant. May is one of our favourite times of the year to stay on the island.
July/August are the warmest months, but also the busiest and most expensive for accommodation.
September is also in our opinion a really lovely time to visit, when the peak season ends and the sea is still warm.
What to do in Mallorca
1) Adventure Sports
Rock Climbing
Mallorca is an excellent base for climbing due to endless accessible perfect limestone cliffs and attracts climbers of all abilities from all over the world. Mallorca is renowned as a sports climbing venue but also has endless bouldering, deep water soloing and traditional climbing potential. Tramuntana Mountains is the main area for the best climbing or along the beautiful coastline.
Below are some of the areas with the easiest accessible climbing spots.
Southwest Mallorca
Palma and Valldemossa have many crags that are easily accessible and include 2 of Mallorca’s best known crags. Sa Gubia is the largest crag in Mallorca both in terms of number of routes and its height, providing many multi-pitch routes. Fraguel crag has the highest quantity of quality hard routes in Mallorca and as such attracts climber from all over the world.
Northwest Mallorca
Many picturesque crags are situated between Soller and Inca which are the highest mountains in Mallorca. The most popular crag of La Creveta is positioned in the dramatic headland of Formentor Pollenca.
Eastern Mallorca
Deep Water Soloing is the best in this area situated in Idyllic bays. Compared with the western side of Mallorca there are very few sport climbing areas here in eastern Mallorca.
Caving & sea caving
Mallorca has a large number of underground caves, some with easy access and others that require technical and specific material to access. Many of these are hidden, you would never know existed. There are some well known tourist caves which are a great way for inexperienced cavers to cool off from the summer sun, for example Caves of Drach & Arta. You can also explore the hidden caves by a half day tour with a guide. With this you will have one of the most amazing experiences of the whole island.
Sea caves – Cova de Coloms which is one of the only sea caves that you can swim into here in Mallorca which is located off the coast of Cala Romantica at a secluded beach. You would never know this hidden cave is here, and what a magical experience. Just a 300 meter swim off the coast and underwater to pop out into this magical cave. With it’s maze like structure and underground lakes there certainly is a wow factor that makes people come back year after year for a bit of mystery, romance and adventure.
Canyoning
Mallorca has a great variety of canyons, some of which are considered the best canyons in Europe. This includes the famous ‘Canyon Sa Fosca’ with truly spectacular scenery perfect for those looking for a fun day of adventure. Canyoning is a unique sport that involves walking, climbing, scrambling, jumping, harness & rope work, abseiling and sometimes swimming through a cavernous area. Narrow gorges with sculptured walls that have been carved out over millions of years with natural waterfalls provide a striking setting for this activity.
Depending on the weather will determine what type of adventure you will have. Some canyons will be dry in the summer months or you could try coasteering in you prefer wet and wild. Canyoning in Mallorca is great do to with a guide over a single day, however to get the full thrill seekers adventure experience, you may want to try and mix up the day combining canyoning with climbing, caving and cliff jumping. A day you will remember as one of your best.
2) Shopping
Palma the capital city is by far the best spot to shop on the Island. It has a good mix for all budgets. The main shopping areas worth a visit are quite compact making it easy to get around and include Pesseig des Born, one of Palma’s most well known shopping streets. Here is filled with luxury and designer boutiques like Louis Vitton, Mulberry and Hugo Boss mixed with new scandi style furniture stores. Other areas to note include Avinguda Jaume lll, the many ancient passageways and quaint cobbled streets. There are many other unique places you could go to spend hours of browsing. Marinas and ports mainly for designer labels for example Port Andratx, and fashion and gift stores can be found around the coastal villages throughout the Island.
For a more traditional shopping experience including local produce, head to one of the Islands many local markets. The biggest market being located in Inca which is between Palma and Alcudia every Thursday. The most traditional market is in Sineu right in the centre of the Island.
3) Hiking & Walking
Mallorca’s beautiful scenery is truly captivating. Hiking in nature is one of the best ways to skip the Spanish island’s crowded beaches in summer. Depending on the level of skill, enjoy a leisurely mountain walk inhaling fresh mountain air, invigorating walk or simply a walk off the beaten track in search of the quieter beaches with empty stretches of sand. There are great walks and hikes to be had all over Mallorca. The Island is blessed with beautiful mountain trails and quiet country tracks where you can find yourself quite alone all year round.
From little hiking excursions to serious trekking expeditions that can last anything from one to several days. You could easily do a weeklong walking holiday on Mallorca. There are some tough hiking trails that will take you up to mountain summits of over 1000 metres and requires important research and planning. Guided tours are becoming quite popular but If you walk on your own, be aware that nearly all mountain regions are privately owned, because more than 800 years ago the entire island was divided into private property. Crossing some areas or plots can be forbidden, and sometimes one will come across a path that suddenly ends at a locked gate.
Walking trails in Mallorca can take you through valleys of fruit trees, pine forests, and over mountain ranges full of boulders, all with many spectacular spots to look out over the Mediterranean sea or pretty Mallorcan countryside.
The best Mallorca hiking destinations are the mountains ranges of the Serra de Tramuntana in the island’s west – which is also a popular road trip route and a favourite among many, as well as the more manageable Serra de Llevant on Mallorca’s east.
4) Take in the Sights
There is so many interesting sights to see in Mallorca. You will never get bored. Here is a introductory list of some of the best things to see throughout the Island.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma
More commonly referred to as La Seu, is a Gothic Roman Catholic cathedral and one if the most popular sights to wander around.
Bellver Castle
Bellver Castle is a Gothic-style castle on a hill 3 km to the west of the centre of Palma. It was built in the 14th century for King James II of Majorca, and is one of the few circular castles in Europe.
Royal Palace of La Almudaina
Located just opposite Palma’s imposing Cathedral ‘La Seu’. It’s elevated position overlooking the Bay of Palma lent it great strategic importance throughout the ages. Today, it’s one of the capital’s main attractions.
Palma Aquarium
A wonderful marine park with more than 8.000 animals and 700 different species in Palma de Mallorca
Alcudia old town
Walk around the top of the old walls. And visit the beautiful church and its museum.
Port de Soller
Mallorcan fishing and yachting harbour, arrayed around an almost perfectly enclosed bay. Wander the streets and take in the french architecture.
Deia
One of the prettiest villages on the Island. Boutique town with quaint cobbled streets nestled into a steep valley with views out to the Mediterranean below.
Cap de Formentor
Dramatic scenery and sandy beaches in the very north of Mallorca.
Botanicactus Botanical Gardens
With around 10,000 cacti, Botanicactus is one of the largest botanical gardens in Europe
La Reserva Nature Park
A prime destination for visitors who want to experience Mallorca’s natural beauty. It has a trail through lush woodland that takes you past many waterfalls and natural pools.
Drach Caves
An enormous underground expanse of undulating sandstone, stalactites and stalagmites. This exquisite ornamentation frames one of Europe’s largest underground lakes, Lake Martel, where classical musicians on boats serenade visitors
Valldemossa
In the hills of the Tramuntana range, Valldemossa with winding narrow lanes and pretty houses decorated with flowers makes this town one of the most beautiful in Mallorca. Surrounded by forested hills and luscious countryside it is a popular destination for cyclists and hikers.
5) Spot famous people
Many famous people own villas and homes in Mallorca or come to stay in a luxury villa in Mallorca on a regular basis. Deia on the west coast of Mallorca is an exclusive spot for the rich & famous. The town is particularly popular with musicians and artists since 1950’s.
Puerto Portals is another hot spot for celebs in Mallorca, with a number of soap stars and TV presenters choosing to holiday here. Claire Sweeney, Steve McFadden, Anthea Turner and Richard Keyes all have either boats or homes here. Pollença and Port de Pollença are more likely to see actor Tom Hiddleston or cyclist Bradley Wiggins in its pretty cafes as they enjoy holidays in the sun.
Here are some other famous people that choose to holiday here: Sharon Stone, Elizabeth Hurley, Richard Branson, The royal family, Jon Bon Jovi, Michelle Obama and many more that you may just be sitting next to when you next dine out at an exclusive Mallorcan restaurant.
6) Rent a yacht for the day
Chartering a yacht or renting a small boat is a great way to explore the islands and coves that you can only get to by boat. From Palma you can visit two small uninhabited islands: Cabrera southeast of Palma) and Dragonera (west of Palma), where you can expect 90 kilometres or 35 nautical miles of unique nature with huge coastal mountains. Enjoy the silence and swim away from crowds. You can rent every type of the boat, fast motorboats, catamaran, sail boat, yacht or jet-ski. If you like water sports you can ask the yacht company if they can provide you with water ski’s or wakeboard to make a more thrilling and exiting experience. Most companies have a driver with a yacht charter unless you have a licence in which you can hire one to explore by yourselves. For a day of pure bliss, let yourself be pampered by an experienced crew. Have a delicious glass of wine or champagne with friends at sunset whilst enjoying the views of beautiful coastlines. An experience not to be missed. You can hire a yacht from many ports in Mallorca which include the following:
Puerto de Palma
Port d’Andratx
Cala Nova
Puerto Portals
Port Adriano
Port d’Alcudia
Port de Pollença
Can Pastilla
Porto Cristo
Cala d’Or
Weddings
International residents can get married in Mallorca. However, there are restrictions as to who can get legally married here. Only legal residents on the island, those who are registered at one of the local town hall registers can get officially legally married in Mallorca. Roman Catholics can also marry here legally, regardless of their residency status. It is recommended for non residents to celebrate a civil wedding in their own country of residence and then enjoy a blessing or exchange of vows in Mallorca by a celebrant using your own personal or religious vows which can take place in any romantic locations on the Island. Either date can then be celebrated as your ‘wedding day’ with friends and family.
There are huge variety of wedding venues for a fairytale wedding and have wedding organisers all over the island. Beach, sailboat, luxury villa in Mallorca, planned venue, restaurant. The choice is yours. There are beautiful relaxing spots to start the week long celebrations. Majorca also offers uncounted days of sunshine, which will allow you to have the outside summer wedding you have always dreamed of. It is also very popular to host an after wedding brunch on a boat, or at one of the many beach clubs where your guests can reflect on your dream Mallorca Wedding.
Yoga/relaxation
Rejuvenate body and mind with various Yoga retreats around the island…. These experiences offer unique retreats for people to join for an in-depth experience and introduction to yoga as a lifestyle. Includes an introduction to yoga, different types of yoga & deep relaxation techniques. Yoga practises are designed to work on all aspects of the personality, the physical, vital, mental, emotional, psychic and spiritual. Leave feeling refreshed, energised with a deep feeling of fulfilment that could be life changing.
If a retreat is not your thing, there are many studios across the Island offering classes. One of the well known classes is Earth Yoga, an holistic centre in Palma. Vinyasa yoga is the focus here and classes are offered in a variety of languages well suited to the International community in this city.
Alternatively if you already practice yoga on a daily basis, you could stay at one of our private hideaway villas in Mallorca equipped with the perfect outdoor space to enlighten your senses to bring you back to you.
Eating out
Welcome to the Island of food lovers. Mallorca has been brushing up on the highest quality of eateries over the years. From high end restaurants to cafe’s to small family run establishments means you can eat well wherever you stay in Mallorca. Mallorca’s culinary star shines brightest in Palma with many inventive tapas bars and the island’s best seafood restaurants. The restaurant scene has come along leaps and bounds now offering first class international cuisine by famous chefs for example the places overseen by celebrity chef Marc Fosh.
Down by the Marina’s and Ports you can find a great selection of restaurants with a view, and not just serving basic tourist food that you usually find in resorts. Places like Port de Soller have a superb selection of Mallorcan culinary magic. You will find Mallorcan-inspired dishes using only the best ingredients.
There is literally something delicious and unique for everyone. All over the Island you can find irresistible pastry shops & local cafe’s serving traditional Mallorcan fare.
Typical traditional Mallorcan meals
Breakfast:
Café con leche with an ensaïmada, a spiral-shaped pastry, or ‘pa amb oli’, a simple slice of bread which may or may not be toasted, with tomato rubbed over and seasoned with olive oil and salt. There tend to be breakfast deals in most Spanish cafés where you can buy a coffee, orange juice and pastry or ‘pa amb oli’ for a reduced set price.
Lunch:
Usually the main meal of the day for the Spanish. Many of the best restaurants offer a ‘Menu del día’, a set menu which usually consists of three courses and a drink for a fixed price and changes most days. This option offers amazing value for money with many places in Mallorca serving three courses for under 10€, or up to 25€ at some of the top restaurants on the island. An example menu could look something like this: Starter – Marinated mackerel salad. Main – Grilled squid with creamy vegetable rice. Desert – Vanilla crème brulée with salted walnut biscuit. Usually a drink is included.
Dinner:
The Spanish are late diners. They like to eat their evening meal at around 8-9pm and take their time dining from the Al la carte menu. The best restaurants can get very busy at these times so best to book in advance during the summer months. After the evening meal, the waiters usually bring out a complimentary liquer with your bill, ‘Hierbas Mallorquinas’ a local liqueur with anise and herbs.
Language
Catalan you will find is the main spoken language in Mallorca, which has been spoken since the 12th century, a romance language and currently the spoken language for the locals. Or more specific ‘Mallorcan or Mallorquí’ which is a sub-dialect of Catalan. However even though the locals speak Catalan, you can easily get by with speaking Spanish. Even if you don’t speak a word of Spanish, English is understood in most of the resort towns although picking up and trying to exchange a few local words will go a long way with the locals. You will find in the hinterland and rural villages, it is best to try to communicate in the local language to be better understood. A good language translation book would be a good idea to have to keep referring to or learn a few key phrases to remember.
