With a reputation of being a party island for Brits, Mallorca is filled to the brim with unspoilt beauty, exquisite architecture, and fine dining.
City of Palma, Mallorca, Balearic Islands
One of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca is renowned for its beautiful beaches, charming coves, and quaint mountain villages. Packed with history and architecture, it truly is a gem for locals and tourists alike.
Mallorca is a beacon of calm, while also being the location home of choice for À-List celebrities. With a population of 870,000, the island is booming in great wealth and enjoys the highest per capita level of disposable income in Spain.
The Islands hotels range from renovated historic buildings with every modern-day convenience to charming farmhouses in the countryside, and modern villas throughout the island.
Mallorca’s Unspoilt, Natural Beauty
Although some of the island’s coastline has been occupied by resorts, they tend to be very contained and so they shouldn’t bother you if parties and loud music aren’t your thing.
Mallorca is home to long stretches of untouched beaches, particularly in the south. We recommend renting a car so you can freely experience the mind-blowing limestone cliffs that plunge into the sapphire-coloured waters of the Mediterranean, all along the western and northern coasts.
The island’s interior is covered with almond trees, olive trees and vineyards, with yachts that harbour in the idyllic inlets along the eastern and southern coasts. Otherwise, these are only accessible on foot.
We definitely recommend visiting the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, which is a named UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers about 30% of the island and gives picturesque views of mountain scenery set against a Mediterranean backdrop.
Plus, the island’s breathtaking scenery and moderate climate have made it a popular choice for hikers, cyclists and all kinds of water sport enthusiasts.
Serra de Tramuntana, Mallorca, Balearic Islands
The Rich History and Exquisite Architecture
The enriched culture and history of Mallorca are reflected in its stunning buildings. For any architectural enthusiasts, then the capital city of Palma de Mallorca is a must-see.
Mallorca’s rich cultural history has left several magnificent sights to be explored, such as its castles and ruins, cathedrals, manor houses and gardens, with a host of art galleries and museums.
Having been founded by the Romans 2,000 years ago, the city has carefully preserved its Old Town, or the “Casco Antiguo”. As a result, much of the city’s past can be seen etched in its streets, like its narrow cobblestone lanes, medieval architecture, and ancient landmarks such as the Cathedral. There are also two excellent museums in the heart of the Old Town, and another up in the Bellver Castle which is found on a pine-covered hill.
Cathedral of Palma, Mallorca
The Tantalising Nightlife Scene
Coming as no surprise, Palma has quite the party reputation. While the nightlife in Barcelona and Ibiza may dominate, Palma also has many vibrant bars and sleek rooftop terraces at hotels available around Mallorca’s capital, and so you’re always guaranteed an eventful night.
The great thing is that the compact size of the city makes everything within walking distance.
The Dining Scene is Unbeatable
The capital of Palma proudly boasts some of the best, most diverse restaurants in Spain. Here you’ll find no shortage of top-tier cuisine, with Michelin-starred restaurants to buzzing tapa spots. There are also a wide range of options for vegetarians and vegans, as well as Italian, Indian, Asian, and of course Mallorcan restaurants. You’ll be spoiled for choice!
There’s a fantastic market known as San Juan Mercado Gastronómico, offering an overflow of culinary treats and specialities for those who feel like spending the afternoon sampling at the long bistro-style tables.
San Juan Mercado Gastronómico, Palma, Mallorca
Beaches and Nature Scenery
With the beach on your doorstep, Mallorca offers an abundance of picturesque beaches and coves, known as calas, with the turquoise blue waters that you’d get on a Spanish postcard.
Palma has long stretches of sandy beaches beside the port, with many hidden calas along the rest of the coastline. The Playa The Playa Ca’n Pere Antoni avails of two beach clubs that offer loungers for hire, as well as waiter service.
You have to venture further away from Palma if you want to enjoy the secluded beaches, but trust us, it’s worth it. For example, one of the most stunning beaches is the Caló d’es Moro, which is found in the southeast of the island.
Caló d’es Moro, Mallorca, Balearic Islands