Mallorca… this beautiful Mediterranean island, located off the coast of Spain, has gained a deserved reputation as one of Europe's most desirable island escapes. Its stunning coastline, ancient towns and mountains, combined with an incredible variety of things to do and places to stay, make it a hugely appealing destination. Whether you want to enjoy a stylish city break or you're looking for a hideaway in the remote mountains and quiet hillside towns, Mallorca offers the best of both worlds. Just come prepared to make the most of the sunshine, delicious Mallorcan cuisine and excellent hospitality.
What to Do & See
Sailing – Mallorca is a part of an island chain offering stunning opportunities for sailing. Enjoy a day out at sea or a full week’s sailing; whatever takes your fancy. Strong winds make it a perfect destination for longer voyages and the varied coastline is ideal for exploring from the sea. A ‘must visit’ is the Cabrera Archipelago National Park, 10km off the south-east coast of Mallorca. Not only is this a great place to hike around, but this group of protected islands plays home to some of the best scuba diving in the Mediterranean – expect to see groupers, octopi, loggerhead turtles and even dolphins.
Photo courtesy of travelbusy.com
Visit Palma – Mallorca’s capital city is ideal for a weekend city break or just a day trip. It's the perfect size for exploring and there are lots of tapas bars and cafes which offer ideal pit stops when you're feeling shopped out. You won’t be able to miss (quite literally) the Gothic cathedral, La Seu, which dominates the city with its sheer size. Located in the ‘old town’ quarter it is worth taking the time to wander the ancient passages which lead to numerous galleries and boutique shops.
The top-ranking Son Gual golf course - photo courtesy of Son Gual/Facebook
Enjoy a round of Golf – With over 20 golf courses, Mallorca is easily described as a golfer’s paradise. Year-round sunshine, sea breezes and wonderful views all contribute to making this the ideal destination for a golfing holiday. And being able to play on courses like Son Gual, ranked in the top 100 European Golf courses, is an added bonus!
Take a wine tour – Wine has been an important part of Mallorca's culture for centuries. Today, winding tracks and roads will bring you past the vines that are still cultivated on the island to one of numerous wineries that are open to the public. Many of Mallorca’s wines are made around the village of Binissalem, located north-east of Palma, which is well worth a visit.
The picturesque Calo Des Moro beach near Palma
Spend the day on the beach – Much of the coastline around Mallorca is truly idyllic and one of the main draws for holidaymakers. Unlike many coastal destinations however, it is still possible to find seclusion amongst many of the coves that dot the coastline. But there are plenty of busier beaches with laidback bars and lively restaurants to enjoy after a few hours sunbathing too. Variety is the watchword here and you are truly spoilt for choice.
Visit a nature reserve - S’Albufera is the largest wetland area in the Balearics covering 4,200 acres. Home to more than 200 bird species including kestrels, Eleonora’s falcons and purple herons, it offers a fantastic destination for a hike or bike ride. No cars are allowed in the Sanctuary which helps add to the peaceful nature of the reserve.
Ca’s Patro March - restaurant location for 'The Night Manager'
Dine out – Mallorca is home to numerous fantastic restaurants, not least an astonishing nine Michelin starred restaurants which hold ten stars between them. From Bou, which maintained its star for the 15th consecutive year, to the 2-star Zaranda, foodies are spoilt for choice. And we mustn’t forget the now-famous Ca’s Patro March restaurant which shot to fame as the location for some of the scenes in the internationally screened TV mini-series ‘The Night Manager’.
Where to Stay
In our eyes, one of the main attractions of Mallorca is the range of superb accommodation. Whether you want to enjoy being looked after at one of its beautiful hotels, or prefer the space and privacy of your own villa, there are plenty of options. We have listed just a few possible choices – for more information or to find out about alternatives give our team call on +44 1993 899 430 and we will be happy to help.
Belmond La Residencia – This award-winning hotel is the epitome of special. Surrounded by 30 acres of ancient olive and citrus groves, this hotel has it all with 67 beautiful rooms, a superb spa and world-renowned restaurant. Find out more here.
Jumeirah Port Soller – Built on a cliff overlooking the fishing village of Port Soller, this 121 room Hotel and Spa is set within lush gardens and offers you a luxurious base from which to enjoy the perfect Mallorcan holiday. Each room has mountain or sea views and is equipped with all the mod cons to ensure your stay is supremely comfortable. Find out more here.
Villa Son Balaguret – One of three villas which are located on the vast Son Bunyola estate owned by Sir Richard Branson, Villa Son Balaguret is a traditional and secluded four-bedroom Mallorcan villa with plenty of space for you to relax and take in views of the Mediterranean Sea. With its own swimming pool, sheltered courtyard, outside kitchen and gardens it is the perfect place for you and your family to enjoy a relaxed holiday in each others' company. Find out more here.