Mallorca

MALLORCA – WHY GO?

Biggest and best known of the Balaeric Islands, Mallorca is a place of huge beauty and charm. While it's not strictly a city break destination, it has more than its share of urban cool.

Come here to see dramatic mountain sides, secluded coves, quaint old towns and hillsides covered in olive groves. Mallorca's capital, Palma, is now one of the Med’s trendiest destinations, and and you'll see a list of our favourite romantic hotels in Mallorca on the left.

MUST SEE, MUST DO

Palma old town
Palma has retained much of its historic flavour, with grand mansions and medieval buildings, a huge Gothic cathedral and a warren of narrow backstreets.

Deià
Crossing the mountains to the arty village of Deià – one-time home to writer Robert Graves and other literary names – is half the fun. Take the winding footpath down to the cove of Cala Deia for clear waters, good snorkelling and lazy alfresco lunches.

Pollença
Set at the northern end of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, Pollença has a lively market and nightlife. The beachfront at Puerto de Pollença is great for early evening strolls.

Soller
Spread at the foot of a 1,400m high mountain, laidback Soller is a town of steep, narrow streets and old mansions. Take the famously slow train from Palma for the full Soller experience, then have a coffee on the town's leafy square before hopping aboard a vintage tram down to the beach.

Beach life
Mallorca has no less than 78 beaches, though it pays to go the extra mile and find the less crowded spots. Cala de San Vicente, near Pollença, is a lovely beach bordered by cliffs and pine trees.

Great outdoors
Walking trails criss-cross Mallorca's mountains (get a map before setting off) and great golf courses include Son Vida, a short distance from Palma.

MAKE A DATE

January
Fiestas de Sant Sebsatian. Palma turns into one big street party with parades and live music.
May
Fira festival, Soller. Four-day fiesta in the second week of May marks the town's victory over the Moors.

July – August
Festival de Pollença. Watch a great line-up of local and international acts.

MALLORCA ROMANCE
Enjoy some late-night tapas in Palma's cobblestone old town with a bottle of local vino.