Holidays in Mallorca

Everyone who has ever tried to find a paradise corner on Earth has inevitably faced a choice among several of the planet’s most idyllic places, among which Spanish Mallorca holds a special place. The beauty and unique charm of this picturesque island have inspired great poets, writers and composers for many centuries, and over time have turned it into a true magnet for the world’s successful and powerful. So what is the secret behind this island’s magical magnetism? Let’s figure it out step by step.

What You Need to Know About Mallorca

Mallorca (often spelled Majorca) — one of the most popular Spanish resorts. Its beaches are favored both by visitors from all corners of the globe and by the Spanish themselves.

Among the latter is the Spanish royal family, whose summer residence is located on this very island. Mallorca is ideal for both family and solo holidays and, despite its reputation as an upmarket resort, offers plenty of options for different budgets.

Where the Island of Mallorca Is Located

Mallorca, or Majorca — the largest of the Balearic Islands and of all Spanish islands in general. The island is surrounded on all sides by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Administratively, it is divided into 6 districts — Pla de Mallorca, Serra de Tramuntana, Raiguer, Migjorn, Llevant and Palma. The latter is the island’s official capital.

Connections with the mainland and other islands of the archipelago are provided on Mallorca by air and sea (ferry) transport. In particular, regular flights from Barcelona arrive at Son Sant Joan Airport. From there you can reach any point on the island by bus or local train.

When It’s Best to Go to Mallorca

In terms of a full-fledged beach holiday, the best season in Mallorca falls between June and September, when the average air temperature is around +26 °C and the water temperature is about +23 °C. This period is also the most comfortable for diving, snorkeling and windsurfing.

Before and after the high season, staying in Mallorca is no less pleasant, but the cooler water will not allow you to swim to your heart’s content. On the other hand, spring and autumn are perfect for excursions to the island’s most picturesque spots, sightseeing, shopping and other no less exciting activities.

What to Do in Mallorca

Think that leisure options in Mallorca are limited to laid-back beach days, restaurant-hopping and shopping? Not at all! In this wonderful place you can combine activities that are completely different in character and pace. In particular, you can:

• Sunbathe on the scenic coastline and swim in crystal-clear water.
• Have fun at the Marineland and Aquacity water parks.
• Head to local markets and shopping centers in search of the perfect shopping experience.
• Visit the sights and simply stroll through the streets of Palma,
• Go fishing, diving, snorkeling or try more active water sports.
• Visit the local zoo, where spacious enclosures accurately recreate the natural habitats of wild animals.
• Try your luck in the local casinos.
• Visit some of the best nightclubs and bars in Europe, including Titos and Pacha Mallorca.
• Watch matador shows, which take place in the main squares of all large towns on the island.
• Learn horseback riding and play golf in Alcudia.
• Visit the unique Circo Alegria shows.
• Have fun at Katmandu Park, where you can enjoy many unconventional attractions interesting for both adults and children.
• Observe the inhabitants of the world’s oceans at the Centro de Visitantes del Parque Nacional de Cabrera and Palma Aquarium.
• Enjoy breathtaking sea views from the coastal cliffs.
• Take part in the grand carnival held on the eve of Easter.
• Experience the atmosphere of local fairs, which are regularly held in most towns.
• Venture beyond the resort area and head to the northern coast to feel the island’s true beauty, which once inspired Chopin, Sand and Miró.

Which Hotel to Choose in Mallorca

• Predi Son Jaumell Hotel Rural 4* (Capdepera)
  Predi Son Jaumell Hotel Rural, housed in a historic 16th-century mansion, is located close to the beach and all the benefits of civilization, yet still creates a feeling of maximum comfort and seclusion. The hotel is surrounded by wooded valleys and rural landscapes that seem to protect the peace of its guests. On the hotel grounds there is a luxurious Michelin-starred restaurant, a swimming pool, a beautiful garden, a bar, a solarium and a massage room.
• Cap Rocat 5* (Cala Blava)
  The luxurious five-star Cap Rocat is located in a former 19th-century military fortress. Its windows overlook the Mediterranean Sea, which can be reached via a path leading directly from the hotel. Guests have at their disposal a spa center, two swimming pools, a hammam, a fitness club, tennis courts and a restaurant specializing in Mediterranean cuisine.
• Nakar Hotel 4* (Palma)
  Stylish and equipped with state-of-the-art technology, Nakar Hotel is perfect for those who want to combine a beach holiday with maximum urban entertainment. It is located in the center of Palma, on one of the city’s main shopping streets. Its special advantages include a relaxed atmosphere, a luxurious rooftop pool, a thermal spa and an excellent restaurant.
• Son Brull Hotel & Spa 5* (Pollença)
  A stay at Son Brull Hotel & Spa can in itself be a source of special impressions. The point is that it was arranged in an ancient monastery dating back to the mid-12th century, and the stunning view from the hotel windows is simply breathtaking! The hotel grounds feature a swimming pool, solarium, spa, tennis court, picturesque terrace and an excellent restaurant renowned far beyond Son Brull.
• Hotel Convent de la Missió 5* (Palma)
  Convent de la Missio rightfully occupies a place in the rankings of the best capital hotels of Mallorca. This exquisitely stylish hotel is located in the historic center of Palma and occupies a 17th-century convent building. By staying here, you can enjoy both the many services provided directly in the hotel (swimming pool, fitness club, spa, rooftop relaxation terrace, several pools, library and much more) and the countless entertainment options that are literally just a stone’s throw away.

Where to Eat Well in Mallorca

Mallorca has everything you need for a perfect trip, including a huge number of establishments for every taste and budget. In general, several main types of venues can be distinguished on the island, based on which you can plan the gastronomic side of your journey:

• Local cafés and small restaurants where you should definitely try the local cuisine and all sorts of seafood dishes.
• Pastry shops serving wonderful “ensaimada” pies made from puff pastry with various fillings.
• Tapas bars with excellent Spanish beer and wine, as well as traditional snacks.
• Hotel restaurants, which often can even determine the choice of the hotel itself ;)
• Award-winning restaurants distinguished by Michelin stars.
• Local markets with a huge selection of fresh seafood, meat delicacies and other local products. One of them is Mercat De L’olivar in the commercial center of Palma.

What to Combine a Trip to Mallorca With

When planning your trip route to Mallorca, don’t miss the chance to visit a few other equally interesting nearby locations, in particular:

• Other islands of the Balearic archipelago, including Ibiza and Menorca.
• Barcelona, which can enhance the impressions of your trip, whatever the format of your journey may be.
• Valencia, where the heritage of the past is fancifully intertwined with ultra-modern buildings that give the city a special charm.

And if that’s still not enough, you can always find plenty of convenient flights directly from Palma Airport, which is considered one of Spain’s key transport hubs ;)