The largest Balearic Island of Majorca offers endless beaches, laidback villages, rugged mountains, lush valleys, a historic capital city and of course, non-stop lively resorts. And the island which has been catering to tourists for decades, has a resort to suit couples, families and party animals too! And the Balearics contribute to Spain’s impressive tourism figures – making it the fourth most popular destination on earth!
Southern Majorca
Palma de Mallorca – The island’s historic capital city is Palma de Mallorca and is here that you’ll find the greatest concentration of cultural sights. Nestled in the Badia de Palma, aka Bay of Palma, the city takes its name from the Roman settlement, which is an indication of the rich heritage waiting to be explored. Wander the Old Town region of Palma de Mallorca which is a former Moorish casbah (walled city). Explore 14th century Bellver Castle, also known as Castell de Bellver, which has an interesting museum containing classical sculptures and archaeological artefacts. Don’t miss the huge Catalan Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, aka Le Seu which dates back to 1221. Discover the works of Catalan artist Joan Miro (893-1983) at the Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró a Mallorca art museum. Get lost in the capital’s maze of tiny alleyways and meandering streets. Take in the Arab Baths, museum of contemporary arts and the very real Bull Ring where bullfighting still takes place today!
Palma Nova – Perfect for a fly and flop holiday, Palma Nova is close to the capital and has a wealth of family friendly activities on offer around the clock. The long sandy beaches offer a variety of watersports including surfing, kayaking and snorkelling. One of the first purpose built resorts on Majorca, there are plenty of western restaurants as well as some bars and clubs. The town does start to merge with party-capital Magaluf, so choose your accommodation wisely!
Magaluf – If you’re looking for a non-stop party atmosphere then Magaluf is the Balearic Island’s most lively resort! Soak up the rays by day at the heavenly beach lapped by the shallow sea and party hard by night at one of the many bars and nightclubs. The Western waterpark is also close to Magaluf for watery adventures.
Santa Ponsa – The family friendly seaside resort of Santa Ponsa offers much in the way of daytime activities, from golf, watersports and of course the ubiquitous sandy beaches. The nightlife is more low key and is centered around open air cafes, bars and restaurants.
Ca’n Picafort – The tiny fishing port town of Ca’n Picafort is conveniently close to the amenities of the larger resorts but retains its small-town atmosphere. Wander the maze of narrow backstreets by day, laze on the beach or take a boat trip out on the high seas. Definitely a good choice for a laidback getaway.
Northern Majorca
Pollença – Not to be confused with Puerto Pollensa (below) Pollença is a small city bursting with charm and has a great little Sunday market. Keen hikers can watch the sunrise or sunset at the Formenter Peninsula, aka Cap de Formentor or follow the trail through the orange-scented groves of Boquer Valley. Explore the hermit nun’s monastery atop the Puig de Pollença hill which dates back to 1348. Or people watch and enjoy a cool helado in the Placa Major.
Puerto Pollensa – at the most northerly point of Majorca is Puerto Pollensa which is a family-friendly beach resort set around a traditional Spanish fishing port. The town retains a cosmopolitan feel and is perfect for a quieter and more relaxing getaway. The beach is superb and the Old Town has some trendy boutiques and authentic restaurants. Try a spot of scuba diving here or charter a yacht for a day to explore the western Mediterranean.
Alcudia – The well-established tourist resort of Alcudia has great facilities and long beaches, perfect for lazy beach holidays. There are two weekly markets held in Alcudia and the town also has a handful of historical sights. Wander the Roman ruins and walk the 13th century Old town city walls. There are also plenty of walking and cycling opportunities at the S’Albufera Natural Park where the wetlands offer a 12km designated trail and visitors can hike the Talaia d’Alcudia trail into the mountains. There is also the Hidropark water park when it all gets too hot. Alcudia does have a selection of bars and clubs so is a little more lively.
Soller – The beautiful town of Soller is nestled within the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range in northern Majorca. Take a train or tram to Soller and hike or cycle the lush green valley. The small town center has some interrest8ing sights including the Can Prunera Modernism Museum, a beautiful church and the Old Port region. This is perfect for eco travellers and adventure enthusiasts.
Eastern Majorca
Cala d’Or – The rugged resort of Cala d’Or is perfect for couples and families and is laid out around a series of creeks, coves and sandy stretches of beaches. It’s also known for its annual Jazz Festival. The resort grew from a small traditional Majorcan fishing village and the largest cove, Cala Llonga is now a large marina which has a good concentration of restaurants and shops. The main beach is Cala Gran although a little further along the coast is the pretty Es Trenc beach which has 5km of dunes and pine trees.
Cala Bona – The well-equipped resort of Cala Bona is based around a traditional Spanish fishing port which is perfect for families and couples. The established resort has sand and gravel beaches lined with a good selection of shops, restaurants and cafes. The old town of Arta is close by and certainly worth a trip, as is the San Salvador monastery which has commanding views over the resorts below.
