Mallorca

The largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is a treasure trove of turquoise beaches, pristine bays and world-class resorts. In contrast to its neighboring island, Ibiza, Mallorca is much more relaxed and calm, offering an escapade for those seeking tranquility. Located close to Spain’s northeastern coastline, Costa Brava, the Balearic Islands are an easy hop and jump from Barcelona and other major Spanish cities. The capital of Mallorca – Palma de Mallorca – is best known for the fancy (and expensive) Spanish resorts.

How to get to Mallorca

There are frequent flights to Palma de Mallorca from many Spanish cities as well as other European cities such as London and Paris. There are also domestic flights from Ibiza and Menorca. If you are not connected to Palma de Mallorca on a direct flight, the best way is to fly via Barcelona.

There are ferries from the other Balearic Islands to Mallorca. The prices are much affordable than if you were flying. Also, ferries link several cities from the Spanish coast –Valencia and Barcelona –to Mallorca.

More information on
>> Cheap Flights to Mallorca
>> Budget Airlines that Fly to Mallorca
>> Getting from Barcelona to Mallorca (and return)

Weather

In Mallorca, the winters are milder and warmer than inland, while the summers are hotter with temperatures averaging around 40 degrees Celsius. In the day, sea breeze cool the atmosphere, so the weather is generally very pleasant all year round. During autumn- and particularly in September, the water is still warm enough to swim. So if you’re looking to avoid the tourist crowd, make your way here in spring or autumn when the weather is still warm and great for beacn-bumming.

>>more information on Spain Weather

What to do in Mallorca

Lounge on the Beaches

Most tourists come to Mallorca for the beautiful beaches. There are both popular crowded beaches –such as Es Trenc- but also secluded beaches, like the Formentera Beach located way off the beaten track and accessible only through winding mountain roads. Once here, it’s easy to see why the beaches in Mallorca are some of the best in the country. However, there is definitely more to Mallorca than just beach-bumming.

Hiking in the Mountains

The wonderful mountains Serra de Tramuntana offer fantastic scenery and lovely hiking trails. Take a few days off your beach-bumming schedule to take a hike in nature. Thanks to the pleasant, sunny weather, there is no need to bring professional gear or rainwear. The hikes are also generally easy and suitable for leisure walkers and outdoor lovers. The northeastern tip of the island – the area around Cape Formentera – is especially appropriate for advanced hikers who are looking for a challenge and unparalleled beauty.

Explore the Island

Cycling is extremely popular on the island, while renting a car is the best way to explore the entire island. Sign up for a biking tour or simply rent the bicycles from your hotel in Mallorca for a one-day biking experience. There are several car rental packages that allows you to pick up the car at the airport upon arrival and drop it off at the same spot when leaving. You can get good bargains for a one-week rental.

Visit the City and Towns

Just like any parts of continental Spain, there are plenty of gorgeous, quaint villages rich in culture and traditions. Mallorca is no exception: towns like Fornalutx, Soller and Arta have an artistic flair, characterized by narrow, stone alleyways and pink bougainvilleas, backdropped by the turquoise sea. The island’s capital, Palma de Mallorca, is studded with plenty of historical monuments, including the seafront Cathedral. Walking is the best way to explore the city, as it is relatively small and compact.

Tips

The official language is the Spanish language and the locals in Mallorca speak Mallorquin, a Catalan dialect. English, German and French are spoken widely particularly in the tourist areas.

If you want to experience rural tourism at its finest book a room in one of the former farmhouses and country estates which have been converted into gorgeous vacation rental homes. Fully refurbished and modernized, there are the perfect locations if you want to spend a family vacation.

If you’re looking to splurge and enjoy some privacy, there are several exclusive resorts in Mallorca. These private resorts tend to be tucked away in quiet, secluded locations, making your holiday a complete indulgence. Depending on how long you’d prefer to drive, the resorts located in the northeast corner of the island tend to be more exclusive.