Travel to majorca: Mallorca Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know

Mallorca Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know

Mallorca is quite possibly the ultimate holiday island! Fantastic for families and with a welcoming, laid back vibe that encapsulates everything that’s great about Spain (and with a few surprises of its own) there’s loads to see, do and eat. Want to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the best stuff? We’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you get the very best from your holiday on the heart of the Balearic Islands.

Why visit?

Geographically, Mallorca consists of a fertile plain sandwiched between two mountain ranges: the spectacular Serra de Tramuntana to the north and the Serres de Llevant to the south. The lowlands are bookended by the Bay of Palma – home to the island’s historic capital city – and the Bay of Alcudia. Both are characterised by long sandy beaches and shallow, warm seas; all around them you’ll find great places for watersports and safe swimming. On rockier parts of the coast you’ll see adventure operators taking groups of thrill-seekers ‘coasteering’ – a mix of rock-climbing, abseiling, scrambling and cliff-jumping that offers a whole new way to enjoy Mallorca’s coastline.

Best time to visit Mallorca?

Summer temperatures are hot, averaging the high twenties with negligible rainfall in the lowlands – it’s the best and the most popular time for beach breaks and traditional family getaways. If you’re planning a holiday around land activities, it’s also worth considering the cooler spring or autumn months, which are ideal for exploring the island on foot or by bike. It’s a paradise for hikers and cyclists, with the heights of Serra de Tramuntana offering challenging ascents and spectacular views with some excellent timeshare options for those who plan on coming back in the future. If you sign a contract but unfortunately have to cancel then make sure you call Timeshare contract Cancellation services for some assistance.

Highlights

Alcudia’s Old Town

Palma de Mallora: The capital of the Balearic Islands is lively, full of history and a great place to enjoy local bars and restaurants.
And in the city itself, Palma Cathedral (also known as La Seu) is an architectural wonder that’s bound to impress all ages.
Almudaina Palace is also found in Palma – it’s a fairytale castle and residence of the Spanish royal family.
Alcudia’s Old Town on the island’s north side boasts a 14th Century wall and colourful markets on Tuesdays and Sundays throughout the year.

Mallorca travel: How to get there and around

Public transport: Thanks to decades of tourism, Mallorca is easy to get around, with a well-developed road and bus network, three train lines and a Metro service operating within Palma, if you like taking trains then consider checking out these Old West Trains. With so much to see, we highly recommend hiring a vehicle – check out our activities section for some original ideas on that front. If you prefer public transport, your first stop will be Palma’s Intermodal Station, reached by the 1 and 21 buses from the airport. From there, local EMT buses and Metro services will get you around the city, TIB (Transport de les Illes Balears) buses will take you to destinations further afield, and trains will take you to the towns of Inca, Pobla and Manacor.

By bike: Touring Mallorca by bike is a fantastic way to see the island (Bradley Wiggins is a big fan) and there are loads of places to hire cycles from – your luxury villas might even include them as part of your rental.

Taxis: There’s an abundance of taxi companies on Mallorca to help get you to where you need to go – though as with many destinations, it’s worth booking in advance (if possible) and agreeing on a price with the driver before heading out.

Hiring a car or other private transportation: If you’re staying inland or in one of the more remote coastal areas, hiring a car or a bus rental will probably be necessary. There are several local firms as well as multinational staples, but once you’ve got your own set of the wheels the entirety of the island is yours to explore! Companies like Europcar, Hertz and Avis all provide services direct from the airport.

Hidden Gems

Deia

The truly adventurous – or anyone after the quietest beaches they can find – should explore the northern coast. Here you’ll find fantastic spots only accessible on foot, such as Es Canyaret, a beach just outside the village of Llucalari that is renowned for its waterfall and refreshing mud pools; Port des Canonge, a secluded spot east of the ancient, terraced village of Banyalbufar; and Coll Baix, a stunning, cliff-fringed bay with turquoise waters.

While you’re in the region, take time out to visit Deia, a small coastal village popular with the creative set. It has been attracting writers and musicians for decades, and when you see it you’ll understand why – it’s a charming jigsaw of traditional flat-roofed buildings and lush gardens, and also boasts a superb Michelin-starred restaurant in the shape of Es Racó d’Es Teix. For another food treat from northern Mallorca, track down fresh prawns from Port de Soller; they’re exceptionally good, and 2015 saw the town launch a festival dedicated to them (held in early March).

Over on the other side of the island, enjoy an underground adventure at the jaw-dropping Caves del Drach. The tour winds past clear pools and intricate rock formations for just over a kilometre, leading you to Lake Martel, a 170 metre-long underground lake – your guide will take you on a boat ride across it, accompanied by live classical music. With good paths and lighting and a temperature of over 20C, you don’t need to be a hardened caver to enjoy it!

Make sure you take the breathtakingly beautiful tram journey from the town of Soller to the port! If you’re into your scenic drives, try going from Valdemossa to Sa Calobra (via the village of Deia), or visit and the charming town of Estellencs and hunt down its stunning hidden cala – don’t forget to bring a picnic!

One more thing – if you find yourself on the long road through the Tramuntana mountains that runs east to west, stop for lunch in Es Grau for some tasty treats and breath-taking views.

Did you know…?

Famed architect Gaudi was meant to design new changes to Palma Cathedral, but he dropped out after a spat with a contractor.

The English poet and novelist Robert Graves spent a large portion of his life on Mallorca – he eventually died there in 1985.

Es Tranc beach apparently loses about 25 tons of sand each year due to it being taken away by holidaymakers in their towels, bags and sandals.

The delicious local pastries known as Ensaimada are notoriously difficult to make off the island – it’s said that the sea air helps the dough to rise!

Mallorca makes a superb choice for a family holiday. It’s not too far away (so travelling with little ones isn’t too taxing) and you can enjoy the tourism infrastructure of the island while staying in the beautiful countryside in one of our luxurious villas in Mallorca. Better yet, there’s loads of things to do to keep everyone entertained and tons of soft, sandy beaches to while your days away.

Things to do in Mallorca

There are plenty of new ways to take on the Mallorcan landscape, like scuba diving adventures that’ll take you to places that’ll leave you wanting to hire an underwater photography professional. Jungeparc take you up into the treetops, using ziplines, ropes and bridges to navigate a pine forest.

Or you could take in the whole island with a guiding tour, enjoying everything from the heights of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains to a boat trip around the coast. No Frills Excursions are your go-to guys for a tour you’ll never forget.

Surprisingly, Mallorca has some fantastic golf courses – whatever level you’re at, a day or an afternoon on the Mallorcan links is the ideal tonic. You can find out more through our friends at where2golf.com.

And if you like heights but think Jungleparc sounds like a bit too much effort, you can appreciate Mallorca from above with a hot air balloon flight. We recommend Mallorca Balloons if you feel like taking to the sky.

One of the nicest tours of the island you can take is the perfect pairing of walking and wine – you’ll really feel like you’ve earned that drink! You can find out more about some great itineraries at Mallorca Hiking.

What to do in Mallorca with kids

There are loads of great museums and art galleries on Mallorca, and the local artists often feature their own work in smaller exhibitions. Something that’s bound to enrapture kids of any age is the Toy Museum in Palma, which features toys from all over the world.
There are some great water parks across all of the Balearics, and all of them make for an exciting family day out. Aqualand is worth a try if you’re heading to Mallorca!

There’s plenty of nature on the island kids will love to explore, with wild new creatures to find and see – try a nature walk and see where it takes you! If the kids love their animals, La Reserva is a private reserve full of beautiful beasts – and there’s even adventure activities too. Katmandu is a huge adventure playground chock full of rides and things to do, with the highlight being the unforgettable upside-down house.

Getting on your bike is a great way to see the island too – there’s loads of great trails suitable for all ages too. Nano Bicycles in Palma offer a cycling tour of the old town or bike rentals to suit you and your family.

Nothing here your cup of tea? There’s loads more suggestions over at our blog on the best family activities in Mallorca.

Recommended experiences

Why not try some cooking classes courtesy of mymuybueno? Better yet, they can tailor their lessons to suit you!

You could mix a bit of exercise with fine wines with Bicillevant’s tour through the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, stopping at wineries on the way fir tastings.

Beer tastings in the comfort of your villa rental with Beer Lovers Mallorca! This would work best followed by a bbq!

Macia Batle is one of Mallorca’s longest established wineries, and the tours will give you a fascinating insight into wine on the island – along with a few samples!

We’ve even spoken to the locals to find out what their favourite suggestions are! Have a read of our insider’s guide to Mallorca to find out more.

If you need more ideas, just check out our blog on the best family activities in Mallorca.

Best restaurants in Mallorca

By far the best vegetarian restaurant on the island is Bon Lloc, which serves great lunches in the day and meat-free haute cuisine in the evenings.

Mare Nostrum is the perfect combination of amazing food that comes at a reasonable price – you can find it in Sa Poblo towards the north of the island.

If you feel like introducing the kids to something a little bit different, Las Olas Bistro in Palma is family friendly and offers a neat take on tapas.

And if you are looking for traditional Mallorcan dishes with a twist, Santi Taura is the place to go! The restaurant is named after the young, ambitious chef, Santi Taura, that weekly creates new tasting menus for its diners. Fine dining at its best!

Flanigan has spent the best part of the last thirty years delighting the tastebuds of visitors and locals alike, specialising in fresh seafood and eclectic Mallorcan cuisine.

You can find more inspiring delicacies by checking out our blog on the best foodie experiences in Mallorca.

Dishes to try

Sobrassada

Tumbet is more of a side dish than a main event, but this Balearic take on ratatouille makes any meal better.

Sobrassada is a local spicy sausage cooked in a huge number of ways – it’s even eaten on bread with honey!

And any trip to Mallorca wouldn’t be complete without trying some seafood – the lobster stew known as calderata is one of nicest ways to get a taste of the ocean.

Tempted by a stay in wonderful Mallorca? We’ve got a huge selection of beautiful luxury villas in Mallorca ideal for any kind of holiday – whether you’re going with the kids, want to totally relax with a few friends or challenge yourself with some exciting activities. If you need a hand with anything, feel free to contact our friendly concierge team!

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Mallorcaspain travel guide

36 Hours in Majorca – The New York Times

Continue reading the main story

There’s a quieter side to this breezy island off the coast of mainland Spain. So add mountain villages and inland drives to your to-do list.

In Majorca, finding an astoundingly beautiful crescent nestled between dramatic cliffs and turquoise seas is easy. Caló des Moro, with its crystalline water, is an enchanting area of the island.Credit…Emilio Parra Doiztua for The New York Times

By Ingrid K. Williams

June 6, 2019

Northern Europeans love Majorca, the breezy Balearic island about 125 miles off the coast of mainland Spain. An easy weekend getaway for sun-seeking Brits, Germans and Scandinavians, the Mediterranean island and its capital, Palma, are sometimes derided as a cheap package-tour destination for hard-partying holidaymakers. And in July and August — the height of the summer season — this is certainly true. But the rest of the year, you’re as likely to hear accented English as Mallorquí, the local dialect of Catalan. So wander the warren of narrow stone alleyways in Palma’s medieval center, drive inland to explore ancient olive groves and rural mountain villages, and along the way, discover another side of this surprising, sun-baked island.

1) 3 p.m. Watery walkabout

The view from atop the 14th-century Castell de Bellver, about a mile west of the city center, encompasses all of Palma: from the palm-lined harbor to the famed cathedral’s distant spires. Follow this sightline on foot, starting at the harbor, an aquatic parking lot of ostentation where yachts are docked beside megayachts docked beside superyachts. Continue along the sunny harborside promenade for about a mile toward the Catedral de Mallorca, a Gothic cathedral known simply as La Seu. The finest vantage to admire this cliff-top landmark is actually from below, in the Parc de la Mar, a man-made park with a pretty fountain and a large pool reflecting the golden sandstone facade.

2) 6 p.m. Old Town haunts

The whole city strolls the tree-lined Passeig des Born in the hours before dinner, so branch off this wide allée to instead explore the narrow side streets dotted with small shops and art galleries. The Palma branch of Berlin’s Kewenig gallery showcases emerging artists inside a 13th-century oratory, while the Gerhardt Braun Gallery hosts exciting contemporary installations in a 17th-century Mannerist mansion. Colorful Majorcan ceramics — hand-painted platters, sea-blue bowls — can be found at Terra Cuita, the store of an artisan producer in nearby Pòrtol. And don’t miss Galería Pelaires, a gallery with an international bent whose program last year included a dreamy Prudencio Irazábal exhibition.

El Camino is a stylish tapas bar that opened last year in a gorgeous space, featuring mosaic-tile floors, coffered ceilings and one long marble counter lined with leather stools.Credit…Emilio Parra Doiztua for The New York Times

3) 8:30 p.m. Top tapas

Given the British proclivity for Palma, it’s little surprise that one of the brightest additions to the local dining scene comes courtesy of a London restaurateur. El Camino is a stylish tapas bar that opened last year in a gorgeous space: a narrow room with mosaic-tile floors, coffered ceilings and one long marble counter lined with leather stools. It’s also often full, which makes the standing-only bar tables in the rear, where drinks and snacks are served, an attractive alternative. Claim a spot among the sociable crowd of expats in their finest frippery, and order a few bites: blistered padrón peppers, garlicky fried squid, crisp jamón croquettes and, if you ask nicely, a palm-size Spanish omelet filled with spicy chorizo from the regular menu. To drink, try a glass of Majorcan tinto from Bodega Son Vell, a small winery producing blends with rare indigenous grapes, like callet and fogoneu mallorquí. Dinner for two, about €70, or about $78.

4) 11 p.m. Alley sips

End the evening as the Spanish do, with a gin and tonic, the de facto national drink. At Clandestino Cocktail Club, a cozy spot with candlelit tables, a jazzy soundtrack and a solid selection of top-notch spirits behind the bar, you’ll get a proper balloon glass with your gin of choice; jammy Brockmans is always a great pick. Or join local craft beer drinkers for a pint at Lórien, a friendly, no-frills pub nearby where taps recently featured a hazy I.P.A. from Cerveses La Pirata in Catalonia, and a brown ale from Majorca’s Sa Cerviseria brewery.

The Catedral de Mallorca, a Gothic cathedral known simply as La Seu, is a prominent landmark on the island.Credit…Emilio Parra Doiztua for The New York Times

5) 9 a.m. Desayuno Decisions

How do you like your breakfast: trendy or classic? For the former, take a seat at a table outside the city’s first specialty coffee shop, La Molienda, on a quiet corner in the Sant Jaume neighborhood. The order here is a velvety cappuccino made with beans from Barcelona-based Right Side Coffee Roasters, a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice, and the delicious pa amb oli de queso — toast drizzled with olive oil and served with Menorcan cheese, sliced apples and local olives (€7.50). Service is friendly but scrambled, so plan to take it slow. Or pursue the historic route, at the original location of Ca’n Joan de s’Aigo, an old-school bakery dating to the 18th century. Amid chandeliers and faded grandeur, opt for a sugar-dusted ensaïmada (€1.40), a traditional snail-shaped Majorcan pastry, and a creamy almond horchata.

6) 10:30 a.m. Nurture nature

Majorca is much more than its capital, so hit the road for a more complete picture of the island. Head north out of Palma onto winding two-lane roads that curl into the Serra de Tramuntana, a rugged mountain range (and Unesco World Heritage Site) spanning the northwestern coast. Just outside the pretty village of Valldemossa, stop to explore Son Moragues, a finca, or country estate, founded in the 14th century that was once home to Archduke Ludwig Salvator of Austria. Today the sprawling property is focused on land conservation, and produces fine organic olive oil from native varieties. Arrange a private tasting and tour of the terraced groves to stroll alongside roaming sheep and marvel at the magnificent mountain views (by reservation only; from €75 per person).

Plaza Mayor in Palma is the cultural heart of Majorca, with an abundance of restaurants, galleries and markets.Credit…Emilio Parra Doiztua for The New York TimesA vintage wood-paneled tram trundles through sleepy Sóller, which springs to life on Saturdays when the streets fill with market stalls selling everything from straw totes to sobrassada. Credit…Emilio Parra Doiztua for The New York Times

7) 1 p.m. Dazzling drive

Continue north along the scenic coastal road, a snaking drive through the mountains with distractingly good views. Make a pit-stop at Son Marroig, another of the archduke’s former homes, to snap photos of the dramatic coastline. Then roll through the ochre-hued hamlet of Deià en route to the town of Sóller. Nestled in an inland valley, sleepy Sóller springs to life on Saturdays when the streets fill with market stalls selling everything from straw totes to sobrassada. Buy a bag of warm bunyols, small sugarcoated doughnuts, and stroll around Plaza de la Constitución, the sunny main square, where every so often, whistles blare and a vintage wood-paneled tram trundles through, rattling toward the port two-and-a-half miles away.

8) 5 p.m. At home with the artist

Circle back toward Palma and stop on the outskirts to tour the Fundació Miró Mallorca, a museum on a scenic hillside property where Joan Miró lived and worked during his final decades of life. Start the visit inside the studio designed by the architect Josep Lluís Sert, and then climb to the 18th-century villa where Miró’s charcoal sketches graffiti the walls. Finish in the exhibition hall, where galleries and an outdoor garden display sketches, sculptures and large-scale paintings. Admission, €7.50.

9) 9 p.m. Balearic bites

Warmth radiates from Toque de Queda, a casual restaurant, bar and deli squirreled away on an alley in the old town where diners lounge in window niches and sip cava around long communal tables. A former bakery with a centuries-old oven, this rambling locale is today run by a young Italian couple who serve simple tapas based on locally sourced products. Start with an order of pan de cristal con tomate (€5), crisp bread slathered with fresh tomato, and one of the charcuterie boards dedicated to various Mediterranean regions. For little-known local specialties, try the Balearic board, with spicy sobrassada, chunky camaiot, and intense figatella sausages, alongside various cheeses from the neighboring island of Minorca (half-portion, €14).

The Serra de Tramuntana, a rugged mountain range, spans the northwestern coast of Majorca.Credit…Emilio Parra Doiztua for The New York Times

10) 10 a.m. Beach bliss

If there exists such a thing as a secret Majorcan beach, don’t expect locals to give it up. But finding an astoundingly beautiful white-sand crescent nestled between dramatic cliffs and turquoise seas is easy, and beating the crowds is simply a matter of timing. At Mondragó Natural Park, about an hour from Palma on the southeast coast, arrive early to explore the protected coves and sheltered dunes surrounded by natural pine groves. Or head farther down the coast to Caló des Moro and hike down a rugged dirt trail to reach an enchanting cove with crystalline water.

11) 1 p.m. Vermouth hour

When the shores swell with sun-seekers, double back to a shady alley in central Palma for a leisurely midday meal at La Rosa Vermutería. Since opening in 2015, this lively restaurant has revived the Spanish tradition of a midday vermouth, which happens to be the perfect aperitif to sip while (inevitably) waiting for a table. Overwhelmed by the two dozen vermouth options? Try the house blend, 5 Pétalos, with its natural pairing, a bowl of marinated olives. Once tucked around a table in the long, narrow dining area, peruse the menu of tapas and conservas (canned seafood). Recent highlights included the croqueton de txuleton (a crisp meat-filled croquette), briny preserved clams and paprika-dusted Galician-style octopus. Lunch for two, about €50.

Opened in January, the 99-room Protur Naisa Palma Hotel is on a quiet street just outside the old town with an inviting lobby lounge and restaurant, an indoor pool and spa, and a rooftop pool with sun beds and lounge chairs (Carrer de Simó Ballester, 6; protur-hotels.com; from about €150).

On a main boulevard in central Palma, the Nakar Hotel opened in 2016 with interiors that incorporate local materials, like typical Majorcan stone. In addition to 57 neutral-toned rooms, the property also has a restaurant, a spa, an indoor heated pool and a rooftop terrace with an infinity pool and views across the old town (Avenida de Jaume III, 21; nakarhotel. com; from €215).

Recent laws have banned most short-term rentals in central Palma, but outside the city, licensed holiday properties are plentiful. Around Sóller, traditional cottages can be found on Airbnb for under $100 a night.

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Travel around the island of Mallorca

Each of us has our own view of the holiday in Spain. Someone likes to delve into the peculiarities of national culture while sipping homemade wine in a local bar. Someone is always drawn to open “new horizons”. And there are those for whom it is important to leisurely enjoy the solitude and the warmth of the gentle sun.

Both the island of Mallorca can “sink into the soul” forever. Or, as they say, once you try it, you want it again. Where such confidence?

5 reasons to stay in Mallorca forever

Some information about the weather

There is no minus weather on the island. The coldest time is from December to March (+6 at night), the hottest in July – August (+28 during the day). Thus, the high season starts in May and ends in October. And this significantly affects prices: at this time they rise by an average of 20-30%.

Mallorca is very friendly to its guests in winter. Swimming, of course, is not possible. But it is not hot and likely acclimatization will not be able to overshadow the rest. There are fewer tourists on the island – and this is a plus. Prices are lower – and this is another plus. And the sights are available for visiting all year round.

But if you decide to go to Mallorca in the summer, here is some information about resorts and beaches.

Beaches

There are more than two hundred of them in Mallorca, and all with crystal clear azure water and white fine sand. Therefore, it is extremely difficult to single out the best of the best. Here are some of them that deserve attention, according to the reviews of tourists.

Beaches on the island Mallorca
Beach name	In a nutshell
Formentor	Favorite vacation spot of famous people
Cala Mesquida	There are a lot of seagulls and cormorants here, whose lives and safety are under vigilant state control
Cala Fornells	There is a small hotel on the territory, designed for a minimum number of visitors (the so-called boutique hotel)
Es Trenc	This place is compared to the Caribbean. Part of the beach is reserved for nudists
Calo des Moro	A small bay surrounded by pine trees is very picturesque. Here the beach is not equipped and therefore difficult to access. But this is not an obstacle for tourists: the coastal zone is filled with vacationers to capacity
Mondrago	The picturesque beach, which is located on the territory of the reserve of the same name, is considered the most beautiful European beach
Cala Varques	Wild beach for travelers, lovers of coastal cliffs and nudists
Muro	A calm beach with a gentle entry into the water, ideal for children’s swimming. By the way, this beach is the cleanest, for which it was awarded the blue flag
Sa Calobra	Sandy pebble beach – a favorite place for artists. Here they draw inspiration for their future masterpieces

Resorts

Quiet and comfortable Cala d’Or is ideal for honeymooners and families with children. The same words can describe the resorts of Palma Nova and Santa Ponsa. In Illetas, a measured leisurely luxury vacation is welcome.

In the noisy Arenal, hotels have two or three stars. Here is a relatively inexpensive holiday, accessible to young people. This is followed by the resorts of Playa de Palma and Can Pastilla for a more “respectable” holiday.

The closest “adult” resort to Palma is Cala Major. There are many discos, various shops, restaurants and practically no children’s entertainment.

Magaluf fell in love with Russian tourists due to the presence of a developed infrastructure, a bunch of entertainment, crowded high-rise hotels.

Paguera is suitable for lovers of romance and solitude. And Puerto Polensa will appeal to creative people.

The ancient city walls of Alcudia with its ancient amphitheater attract tourists from all over the world.

Active recreation

Oh, how I would like to return from the sea-ocean not only tanned and refreshed, but also toned, thinner!. . But very often, a natural “side effect” of quality rest is extra pounds. On the island of Mallorca, you can achieve the ideal by mastering some kind of sport.

Bicycling is the locals’ favorite means of transport. It is available in any resort area. A walk along a special cycling route diversifies the rest. By the way, international cycling competitions are held here in winter.

The island has 22 impeccable golf courses that host golf tournaments every year. You can play tennis. The number of courts in Mallorca is not inferior to the number of beaches. Perhaps you would like to visit the Open Tennis Championship, which takes place in Mallorca every year.

Sailing has been added to traditional diving and windsurfing on the island. Competitions are regularly held here, in which the royal people of Spain love to participate. If you are relaxing in the summer, you can go boating or boating. Or on a ship with a transparent bottom, getting acquainted with the rich underwater world. You can learn water skiing.

There are two hippodromes on the island where chariot races are held. Here you will be offered to take a horse ride along a special route.
Skydiving will undoubtedly increase the concentration of adrenaline in your blood.

Attractions

To list all the places that deserve attention is simply unrealistic – Mallorca is so rich in them! Therefore, we will try to orient you in the variety of entertainment offered.

There are about forty national reserves on the island, which have the status of national. One of them is the Galatzo Park, a natural reserve that spreads over 2.5 million square meters of flowering vegetation. All kinds of animals and birds live here, which put on a show for park guests every day. Mountain climbers can climb the mountains or take a ride on the cable car. Beautiful waterfalls perfectly cool the body, charging it with energy and restoring vigor. And then it’s time to roast the meat on the fire yourself! You can spend the whole day in Galatzo Park and not get bored.

The Alfabia Gardens are a cultural treasure of Mallorca and 120 hectares of cozy atmosphere. Narrow alleys with fruit trees and wonderful fountains will remind you of the era of Arab rule. One has only to press the “magic” button, and suddenly, as if from nowhere, a barely perceptible refreshing shower will appear. Alfabia gardens have art galleries, a library and an orange garden, the juice of which can be tasted in a local cafe.

There is a banana plantation in Jumaika Tropical Park. On its territory there is a small zoo. It is nice to spend time here having lunch at a local restaurant.

Mallorca is famous for its caves. Not so long ago, the caves of Campanet were discovered, which have retained their original appearance. Their area covers more than 3000 square meters. Be sure to book a tour so that the guide will help you navigate the halls and galleries with beautiful names. Here, with bated breath, you can admire the clusters of stalactites that form bizarre ensembles.

Caves del Drac are the most popular. There is one of the largest lakes in the world. Every hour in this place sounds of classical music are heard.

Sound and light shows are organized in Arta and Ams caves. Children will especially enjoy the Genova Caves.

You can touch the history by visiting the Arab fortress – Almudaina Palace; the medieval castle of Castel de Belver is a clear example of the Gothic style; the manor of La Granja from the times of the Roman Empire, the monastery of Lluc and the city hall of Palma, the main city of Mallorca.

Fun for the whole family

Do you want to be transported into a world of adventure and experience a unique battle experience? Visit the pirate show: a fusion of music, acrobatics and dance will delight not only children. You can watch the show at the Magalluf resort, this is the southwest of the island.

Flamenco show. Incendiary dances, Andalusian horses, acrobatics, Spanish guitar, chic costumes and scenery will not leave anyone indifferent. For all this, head to the resort of Playa de Palma, in the city of Palma.

Rancho Grande. Spend a western-style evening with hundreds of horses, ride in a cart or pony to the sounds of country music. The ranch is located in the north of the island, Can Picafort resort.

Aquarium. What can fit in five million liters of sea water? Yes, anything! In the city of Palma, there are fifty aquariums concentrated in one place. Underwater coral reefs, various types of marine life and all sorts of curiosities … It’s not without reason that the aquarium in Palma de Mallorca is known to the whole world!

Alcudia Hydropark is an infinity pool with slides, spirals, slides, drifting balloons several meters in diameter and a safe area for the little ones. There are places to eat and store things in the park. The day will fly by! Alcudia is located in the resort of Alaro, in the north of the island.

Western Park – also a water park, but in the style of the wild west with a stylized show.

Marineland Mallorca is a research center for the study of marine life and animals. Shows of dolphins, fur seals and birds will delight children.

Acrobatic park – fun for those under 12 years old. Fifty platforms at different heights and with different levels of difficulty. To have fun, exercise, develop the vestibular apparatus and learn to keep balance. The resort of Bendinat is located in the southwest.

Jungle Park is a real adrenaline rush for adults. You will have to pass a given route by climbing trees. It is necessary to overcome nine hectares of forest in a suspended (in the literal sense of the word) state. In total, there are one hundred and fifteen platforms in the park, mounted around trees. Every year the territory of the park expands. Santa Ponsa resort, southwest.

Aqua Land Arinal is designed for the whole family. Everyone will find their attraction on 207 thousand square meters of the water park.

Mallorca also has dozens of museums, five theaters and concert halls, many international national exhibitions, nightclubs and discos.

Shopping

When the holidays come to an end, we usually want to go shopping to take home the “material proof” of the holiday. And that means we’re going shopping.

In Mallorca, they made sure that you comfortably walk around the shopping malls in search of what you need. The largest shopping centers are concentrated in the capital. Porto Pi is a chain of boutiques with fashionable clothes, as well as cinema halls and restaurants. Be sure to visit the factory of leather shoes of famous brands in the city of Inca!

Twice a year in Mallorca, as well as in Europe itself, there are sales. In addition, permanent fairs are open for you, where you can buy everything from fruits to souvenirs. The world-famous factory with the world famous brand “Majorica” produces artificial pearls of the highest class. Wooden products are suitable as a souvenir: various crafts, toys, kitchen items … In a word, not only magnets.

Transport

As an excursion, you can take a walk on an old train along mountain roads, citrus orchards, passing through long dark tunnels. The train windows offer fantastic views of Mallorca.

The cheapest option is the bus. It can be reached almost anywhere on the island. The fare is €1-10. You can save money by buying a travel card: for ten trips, it costs €8. And you can use the high-speed train – € 3. Taxi operates around the clock, the trip is paid by the meter. The fare is €1 per kilometer.

If you are over 21 and have more than three years of driving experience, rent a car. The price of the issue is from €30 per day. Plus a €200 deposit, which is then returned. Remember that in cities traffic should not exceed 50 km/h. You can park your car in the parking lot for no more than three hours. Therefore, it is better to park a car for a day in underground parking lots, which cost a little more than one euro per day.

You will get to neighboring islands or to the European mainland by sailing on a ferry or high-speed catamaran, the ticket price is €40.

You can only get to Mallorca by charter flight. Or with a transfer through Europe.

Accommodation

Demanding and wealthy tourists will find designer hotels. Villas will appeal to those who love privacy and space. They are of two types: a suite, which includes a transfer, and car rental, and food, and cleaning … There are cheaper, without the listed services. Such villas operate without a license.

Lovers of rural tourism will appreciate the restored farm hotels. This is a great option for a large family. In terms of level, they are quite consistent with a hotel with stars: the house is cleaned, cooked, and there are even spa services. Budget accommodation options are somewhat removed from the sea. In this case, you will have to get to the shore for 5-15 minutes by walking.

Peculiarities of the national cuisine

Do you know that it was here that the world-favorite mayonnaise was invented? What about ratatouille? No, it was not invented here. But this dish can be safely called the “namesake” of the local popular vegetable dish called “tumbet”. Yes, vegetables are the main side dish in Mallorcan cuisine. They are usually served with pork, which is cooked here very tasty and in different versions. For example, the Lom Al Kom dish is a pig “dressed” in cabbage leaves, served with pine nuts and raisins.

There are many varieties of pork sausage. And how do you like the Trempo summer salad of tomatoes, green peppers, garlic, apples and pears?.. But the basis of all the basics, of course, is still seafood. Calamari stuffed with fish or vegetables, royal blanquet fish baked in salt or grilled red scorpion fish… Mallorca has a great variety of fresh and tasty food.

P.S.

So our short tour of the hospitable and so diverse island of Mallorca has come to an end. In recent years, it has attracted a record number of tourists: more than twelve million people a year. So if you decide to visit Mallorca, we advise you to hurry up and book a place under the Spanish sun, which gives unforgettable moments to the guests of the island all year round.

Travel around the island of Palma de Mallorca by car. Ideal route

10/24/2020
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Behind the wheel,
Trips
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Julia Kozhevnikova

To say that I fell in love is too banal and simple. No. The island of Palma de Mallorca evokes a different feeling. Rather, he gives you what you most need at a certain point in your life. It happened to me as well. But first things first.

BOOKING TICKETS AND HOTEL

I’ll be honest: I’m not one of those who cares about such things in advance – due to work circumstances, I have no way of knowing what will happen in 6 months. The voyage was scheduled for September, with active armoring operations beginning in August. And I will say right away: I love Spain, I have been there many times. This year I planned a trip to the northern part of the mainland, but then, suddenly, Palma-De-Mallorca appeared in this plan. And my eyes lit up. By analyzing the prices, I can say that you will still receive a small benefit by booking in advance, but this is a minor difference. And for those who are afraid of flights with transfers, I will reassure you – there are direct flights to the island from Moscow. You can choose Sheremetyevo or Domodedovo airport. The flight time is 4.5 hours and now you are in Mallorca.

Our flight was delayed by 2 hours. It’s a shame, of course, but we quickly forgot about it when we landed on Palma. Spanish is widely spoken on the island, namely (Castilian) and the local dialect of Catalan, also known as Majorcan. The locals have a rather poor knowledge of other languages, even English. But at the same time, they touched me with their responsiveness and willingness to help, despite the language barrier. The residents of Mallorca always tried to suggest and explain something to me, even where I did not expect. It’s incredibly touching. The island is incredibly clean and tidy. Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is often scolded for the garbage on the streets. In Palma, everything is different – there is a feeling of perfect cleanliness.

“What about the cars?” – you ask. Everything is simple. And due to the narrow roads. There are crossovers, but not many. But a lot of kids like Fiat Panda, Fiat 500, Smart Forfour, Opel Corsa. Of the convertibles, the most common are BMW and Audi. Brands such as Maserati or Alfa Romeo are also represented, but very modestly and only in those parts of the island where there is a port for long-term parking of yachts.

To be honest, I really wanted to rent a BMW convertible. Imagine this picture: you are racing around the island along the coast, the wind plays with your hair, the sun caresses your shoulders. But my friends immediately put a stop to these fantasies – it was decided to take a more budget car, which, by the way, was not immediately available. So book the car in advance if you have specific plans for the dates of the autotrip. Because the popularity of small cars in Palma is incredibly high. But we were lucky, and the next day after contacting the car rental company, they contacted us again and allocated a blue Opel Corsa. Didn’t expect anything. But this baby will still pleasantly surprise me – the price turned out to be low – 162 euros for three days. On the street you will see many appeals with prices from 30 euros per day. But by contacting, you will learn a lot of nuances, and the final price will be higher. Therefore, we took a car from a trusted aggregator, ClickRent, the price already included full insurance. My Opel was not even checked after the trip, I just left the keys in the indicated place.

PALMA DE MALLORCA

The car on the island is a true friend. You can see so many amazing places and secluded beaches… But I still recommend starting from the capital of the Balearic Islands, from the city of Palma de Mallorca. The Balearic Islands are an archipelago in Spain in the western Mediterranean Sea, near the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula. These include the four largest islands: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza (better known as Ibiza) and Formentera. And the capital is considered to be Palma de Mallorca. It is hospitable to tourists with its streets and avenues, as well as numerous cafes with traditional Spanish tortilla, jamon or chorizo.

Almost all tourists go to the Cathedral of Santa Maria, also known as La Seu. It is one of the most famous and revered Gothic cathedrals in the world. Construction began as early as 13 at the site of the destroyed mosque. The cathedral is a symbol of Christianity established on the island, and it really impresses, conquering with its grandeur.

Almudaina Palace is located next to the cathedral. It is one of the oldest buildings in the capital of the Balearic Islands. The Almudaina Palace is considered special – it is distinguished not only by its advanced age, but also by its unique architecture, as well as interior decoration that has survived to this day. It is noteworthy that today it is the summer residence of the King of Spain.

Is it easy to park in the most popular tourist spot on the island, you ask? The honest and direct answer is no. Some do not even recommend driving to the capital of the island. But we went. And, having experienced all the delights, we can say that, in principle, you can park, but it will be a block from the main places. Personally, this did not frighten us, on the contrary, walking around the center on foot, you will see all the originality and zest of Palma. You will get lost in the small narrow streets, again go to La Rambla (yes, there is exactly the same street in Barcelona, and they are very similar) and you will see many cathedrals and unique monuments. So feel free to drop the car and go ahead, explore the historic center on foot.

VALDEMOSSA

But we move on and find ourselves in a nice village that will not surprise you with huge palaces and the grandeur of the powerful of this world. But that she will win your heart, I’m just sure. I had heard a lot about Valldemossa, but what I saw in my life turned out to be a thousand times more beautiful. The village is located in the mountains of the Sierra de Tramontana in the north of the island of Mallorca. It is about 17 km from the city of Palma de Mallorca. Valldemossa miraculously managed to maintain her integrity. Quiet, pretty village with narrow streets and alleys of white stone. On each house you will find a fresco with the symbol of the patron saint of Mallorca, Saint Catalina Thomas. It is believed that it protects the locals from evil – this is a centuries-old tradition that is still followed here. Moreover, the plots on the frescoes are not repeated, and each house has its own unique fresco. Also, almost every house is decorated with green plants and flowers. All this together: white stone houses, frescoes and greenery create an incredible atmosphere and mood. Some touching, sincere magic. Valldemossa will heal your heart, surround you with peace and tranquility, and wrap you in the tenderness of this world.

Valldemossa’s top attraction is the 13th-century monastery, which is associated with the Polish composer Frederic Chopin. It is not surprising that it is here, in Valldemossa, that many artists and writers have drawn inspiration. And it so happened that the famous composer Chopin and the French writer George Sand once hid from their spouses in this village. It was here that they had an affair. And after a few romantic months in Valldemossa, Sand even wrote the story “Winter in Mallorca. ”

SOLIER

Do you know what else is the most wonderful thing on the island? That’s an incredible amount of ports. And the port is a separate marine energy. We visited the most key ports of Mallorca and it’s hard for me to choose one – each of them is so colorful and bright. Let’s start with Soller. This is a picturesque town in a valley with lush orange groves, located between the sea and the rocks. It turns out immediately a combo set: here are the mountains for you, and here is the sea for you. Comfortable. Most tourists go to it from Palma on an old train, which is called the “orange express”. Once he delivered oranges for their further transportation through the sea route. At 19century Soller was the main exporter of olives and citrus fruits. Thanks to the development of trade, prosperity came to the city, luxurious mansions and public buildings were created. The air here was filled with majesty.

A ride on such a train is a separate tourist pleasure. The fact is that the railway between Palma and Soller was opened the day after the sinking of the Titanic, that is, it is more than 100 years old. The trailers that are still in business can also boast of the solidity of age. But we still went by car again. Firstly, it is faster (the train, which does not accelerate much, will take more than an hour), and, secondly, it is more convenient. Checkmate. Yes, there are two ways to get to the port of Soller. The first is to go through the tunnel through the mountain (this is a paid part of the road that will cost you 4.70 euros one way). Or the alternative is to take a detour through the Colle de Soller, with its 57 hairpin turns, which are considered the most dangerous in Mallorca (but the views from the upper sections are crazy!). You choose. We chose the first option.

In the city itself there is an impressive church of St. Bartomio. It dominates the town square and was built in the 13th century. The baroque decoration is also noteworthy. There are many other objects in Soller. But we went for a walk to the port. Lovely restaurants, a charming promenade and picturesque Mediterranean streets will meet you here. And, of course, an incredible number of yachts and sailboats.

PORT ADRIANO

Another one of my sincere loves. Of all the numerous, majestic or, on the contrary, modest ports, it is the port of Adriano that shines with a separate energy for me. By the way, for residents of Mallorca, the name El Toro is more familiar. So, in Spanish and melodic – El Toro.

Getting there by car from the city of Magaluf, where we lived, is very easy. Literally 25 minutes and you are there. Parking near the port or the beach is paid. But we easily parked a little higher up the street, next to the cars of local residents and completely free of charge, and even in the shade. Another advantage of a small car is that finding a parking spot is easy.

It would seem, what’s new? More yachts, sailboats and a little more Maserati parked nearby. But there is a secluded and absolutely incredible beach. This is a small cove where there are no waves, noisy tourists and loud music from beach cafes. But there is the flavor of the local nature, peace and wild birds that are so funny trying to talk to you in the local language. At times, they might try to steal your bag of snacks by dragging it funny across the sand, but that just adds to the magic of the place.

PORT d’Anthrax

We also got here by car. There were also traditional long tunnels on the way, but we are already used to them. And, driving into the darkness, the spirit already habitually captures at the beginning, and at the end – a feeling of some kind of freedom, when you again leave for the light. In addition to beautiful sunsets and a wide promenade, Port d’Anthrax is famous for its luxurious villas that celebrities like to buy or rent. So, for example, the seven-time Formula 1 champion Michael Schumacher celebrated his anniversary this year, just at the luxurious Villa Yasmín in Port d’Anthrax. Well, we haven’t saved up for the villa yet, so we just breathed this luxury air and went on. By the way, there were no problems with the park at all, right next to the main embankment there is a separate free spacious parking lot, where our car was waiting for us.

MAGALUF

In Mallorca, we lived in one of the most party cities of the island, which is considered the local Ibiza. By the way, you can get to Ibiza from the island by ferry in 3 hours. But back to Magaluf. He is incredibly loved by English and German youth. Nightlife here boils with its own separate tourist rhythm. There are entire streets of nightclubs and pubs, and you will surely find something to your liking – you can move between them at least all night.

But, of course, if your hotel is adjacent to the main streets at night, then you can fall asleep only in the morning. We acted more cunningly and lived in a quiet part of the city, from where, if desired, it was possible to walk to all important parties in 15 minutes. Do you want heat and dancing in a bar? Please. Tired after an active day of sightseeing? Here’s a quiet room for you. Beauty. And it is worth noting the location of Magaluf. All key places (except the extreme, northern ones), including the capital of the island, are less than an hour away, on average 30-40 minutes. This is very convenient, you can visit several points in a day and hardly get tired on the road. And, of course, the town has its own nice beach.

MALLORCA BEACHES

The choice of beaches on the island is impressive. We have traveled a lot. Always found a place to park. Sometimes I had to get up a little further, but, in my opinion, this is not critical. Almost all the beaches that are located in the south and west of the island are sandy. And only in the north are pebbly, but at the same time, they are no less beautiful. The northern beaches have incredible caves and cozy coves in their arsenal. They are interesting to explore if you are tired of lying lazily in the sun. By car, if you wish, you can discover a new beach every day. At first we did this, and then we found our beloved one, and spent the last days there. The beaches of Mallorca are why people come here from all over the world, even Italians who have their own gorgeous beaches. I think this is the most striking compliment to the island.

ROADS AND DRIVERS

In conclusion, I will separately talk about roads and drivers. The roads on the island are very comfortable, smooth, well-groomed. True, there are a sufficient number of speed limits, especially if you are near a city or port. But where the wide highway begins, the speed limit is 100 km/h. Yes, this is not a German autobahn. But you need to understand that the island has completely different distances and its own rules. “Why hurry?” – leisurely southerners think, you still have time. Separately, I will note sections with serpentine – there are enough of them on the island, since it has its own mountain range. Of course, such a road will tickle your nerves. There are a lot of narrow and winding places in Mallorca – often you go and don’t know what is around the corner, and how then, in which case, to disperse, so the restrictions of “40” are clear to me.

And about the drivers. Maybe I was lucky, or maybe they really are, but the inhabitants of the island seemed to me good-natured and open. In one of the parking lots near the beach, everything was very densely packed with cars, and in front of my car there was a miserable semblance of a place where a local wanted to park. Before that, he said something to me in Spanish (languages, as I said above, are often not known). I realized that it was about the place. I moved back a little (again, thanks to the tiny Opel Corsa), although I also had nowhere to give up especially strongly. And, surprisingly, he got in. When he got out of the car and walked with a confident step to hug me, I was surprised. And he was so happy and so thankful.