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Mallorca is one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations.
The island has so much to offer, magnificent scenery, friendly
people, fine cuisine, interesting history, traditions and architecture
and, of course it has to be mentioned, some of the most beautiful
beaches and coves in the Mediterranean.
There is the beach paradise of 'Es Trenc' in the Southeast, the
spectacular scenery around 'Cap Formentor' in the North and the
charm of the rural landscape as you travel around the island.
The small towns of Valdemossa and Deya (Deia) in the West, approached
by driving along the spectacular coastline, are very popular with
visitors and artists.
The Tramuntana's beauty has dazzled numerous poets and artists,
among them Robert Graves, Chopin and the archduke Luis Salvador
of Austria.
The Northern area is has mountainous scenery and the sweeping
bays of Puerto Pollensa and Alcudia. Fiestas are a popular attraction
for tourists visiting Mallorca. Pollensa village is famous for
the
re-enactment by the residents, which takes place each year, of
the battles between the Moors and the Christians.
Places to visit
Traditional architecture can be found in the towns as well as
the country and some of the grand houses are open to the public,
notably the estates and gardens of Son Marroig and Al Fabia.
Son Marroig, Deya (Deia): Beautiful 19th century manor
owned by the Austrian Archduke Ludwig Salvador and the location
for the International Festival of Deia dedicated to chamber music.
Lluc: Famous for El Santuari de Lluc (Lluc monastery)
which you can visit
Jardins de Alfabia: Beautiful, cool and relaxing Moorish
gardens and house near to Soller.
Port de Sóller: An agreeable seaside town where
you can take boat trips to Sa Colobra and Sa Dragonera.
Palma: Palma is a wonderful, vibrant Catalan city with
stunning architecture, an excellent new art gallery Es Baluard
and the prominent landmark of Bellver castle. Palma has a magnificent
cathedral, beaches and marina, plus a wide variety of shops, street
cafes and nightlife to satisfy those who enjoy city living.
Places of natural beauty, sandy beaches and parks
The scenery is dramatic and varied. Steep mountain roads with
hairpin bends take you to the highest points and reward you with
breathtaking views. The coastal crags and mountain gorges have
routes and paths for climbers and walkers to explore. In springtime
the island is covered in wild flowers and the pink blossom of
the almond groves.
Cala Mondrago: In the East, there are many rocky coves
with sandy beaches and this is where you will find the unspoiled
natural park of Cala Mondrago. There are paths through the pine
forest and along the coast.
Caves to visit:
Caves of l'Alzinaret, Cala San Vicente, Ancient burial caves in
the park of Los Encinares.
Caves of Drach, Porto Cristo
Caves of Hams, Porto Cristo-Manacor, Porto Cristo
Caves of Campanet, Palma-Alcudia, Km 39 Campanet
Caves of Arta, Capdepera
Alcudia Bay: A favourite resort area with families,
situated on the north east coast of the island. Alcudia has a
fantastic 10km stretch of soft sandy beach and there are plenty
of attractions around the resort including a variety of water
sports.
Sa Albufera natural park in Alcudia Bay: A peaceful sanctuary
for birds and a place to relax. You can wander along the paths
and enjoy some serious birdwatching.
Alcudia, the historic old town: The former Roman capital
of Mallorca known as Pollentia - has Roman Ruins to explore and
Spanish architecture of earlier times.
La Reserva: Excellent nature reserve with marked trail
& adventure park. Located in the west of the island, on the
slopes of Puig Galatzó (4.5km from Puigpunyent). There
is a cafe and barbecue area.
Sa Colobra: A canyon to be found at the end of a twisting
road with amazing hairpin bends. The canyon opens out onto a sandy
beach. Very fit walkers/climbers enjoy this challenging canyon
walk.
Restaurants, bars and dining out: Good food and wine is
served all over the island and there are many restaurants to be
found as you explore the country roads and pretty villages.
Mallorcan and Spanish culture is celebrated in flamboyant style
during the fiestas. There are larger resorts with an abundance
of restaurants, pubs and music bars providing a choice of evening
entertainment and there are also the quiet unspoit areas of outstanding
beauty with smaller traditional Tapas bars and cafes.
Activities: The coast line all around Mallorca is ideal
for sailing and nautical sports – sailing schools, windsurfing,
and water skiing, fishing and also diving.
Cycling: Mallorca is very popular with cyclists and there
are bikes available for hire.
Golf: For those who enjoy playing golf and visiting golf
courses whilst on holiday, there are many excellent golf clubs
in Mallorca. Wherever you stay there will be a golf course within
half an hour's drive or less.
Rock climbing: The mountains and crags are of limestone
and give enormous pleasure to rock climbers. There has been continuous
development all over the island and guides for the bolted routes
are available.
Horse riding: Popular with visitors, horses can be hired
for treks taking the rider through the scenic sheltered countryside.
Palma Airport
This is a modern airport, well situated, only a few kilometres
from the city centre. It takes approx 1 hour to drive from Palma
to Puerto Pollensa in the North, most of the resorts can be reached
in 1 hour or less.
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