Highlights
Palma
For those seeking their fix of history and culture, Palma boasts a mélange of architectural gems including the palatial La Seu Cathedral, a 14th century gothic masterpiece that rises majestically from the city walls and looks out across the Mediterranean Sea. Just opposite, the Royal Palace, a former Arabian fort, houses various treasures that tell the story of Mallorca’s rich history. The quirky, maze-like district of La Llonga offers independent boutiques and galleries, while the charming La Rambla, built along the old riverbed, blooms with the colours and scents of flower sellers.
Beaches
Mallorca boasts more than 120 stunning beaches, ranging from white sandy expanses to tiny, pebbled coves with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming. Cala Mesquida, on the north-east of the island is popular with surfers, while Puerto Pollença is a family favourite offering sun loungers and watersports. The beauty of visiting a small yet diverse island is that you can really explore; seeking out your own personal paradise.
Boating Excursions
With more than 250 beaches and coves, there is no better way to explore the island’s vast coastline than from a luxury boat. A particular highlight is sailing along the West Coast past Cala Deià perched at the side of the rocky Tramuntana mountains, where you can stop for lunch at fresh fish restaurant Ca’s Patro March, made famous by ‘The Night Manager’. After sampling Buttered Soller Red Shrimp – a delicious midday treat, walk down the cliff to the rocky coves for a refreshing swim.
Historic Towns and Villages
Venturing away from the island’s economic and cultural hub, visitors will be enthralled by the rustic village of Deià, an unspoilt oasis of orange groves and sheltered coves reached via stunning mountain roads. The location of the esteemed Belmond La Residencia, Deià has become something of an exclusive hideaway, particularly for writers, musicians and artists seeking absolute tranquillity. Similarly, Pollença Old Town offers ample winding streets and squares that become filled with heavenly symphonies in the summer months, when the annual festival of classical music takes place. It is worth taking the vintage tram ride from the rural town of Soller to Palma, a slow-paced but delightful journey through rolling countryside and the Tramuntana mountains.