Mallorca is the largest island in the Balearics. It may conjure up images of crowded beaches and party resorts like Magaluf. There are actually so many other ways to enjoy the spectacular coastline and unspoilt villages around the island.
Most people choose to visit in the summer months, craving those deep blue Mediterranean skies and turquoise sea. Surprisingly there is a huge amount to see and do in spring and autumn when the temperature is more suitable for outdoor activities and there are far less people. With 300 days of sun a year, the chance of good weather is always high!
For families and beach lovers the North coast is ideal. Puerto Pollensa bay, Puerto Alcudia and Playa de Muro (two huge bays with over 30km of golden sand) are un-beatable. Fincas (Mallorcan country houses with pools) are a popular choice.
To experience authentic Mallorcan life, try a typical town house in Pollensa village or Alaró, inland but close to Palma.
For hikers, Soller and Deia will give you easy access to the famous GR221 hiking route. Alcudia and Muro also have some fantastic hikes including the dramatic Alcudia peninsular and the rugged coastline that stretches towards Arta.
Professional and club cyclists come to train on the island especially in the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range throughout the year. Fincas or apartments in the Pollensa area are popular for cyclists as this also gives the option of the flat coastline of the North of the island and the Pla de Levant to the east.
If you can tear yourself away from your villa´s pool….
There are supposedly 365 beaches in Mallorca so that´s a good place to start. In the North you have the small, charming coves of Cala San Vincent, the dramatic Formentor beach and the long stretches of beaches in Puerto Pollensa and Puerto Alcudia.
These resorts offer sunloungers, beautiful sea for swimming and snorkelling, loads of bars and restaurants and every water sport you can think of! If you have a hire car (recommended) there is so much to explore in Mallorca, from honey-coloured villages to nature reserves. A drive along the West coast is hairy but recommended! If you don´t have a car, there are lots of organised trips island-wide.
Lots of Pollentia Rentals clients ask about bike hire. There are some very good and safe cycling routes in the North, perfect for families and professional cyclists alike. Bike hire is easy and will deliver to your holiday property.
Girls, missing out on your shopping? Check out Fan (Mallorca´s newest shopping centre) or Festival Park outlet.
For a more cultural day trip, Palma has a huge selection of boutique shops, brilliant restaurants, a beautiful cathedral and beach. Well worth a day away from the pool.
Kids (and actually big kids too) love Mallorca´s waterparks. Western Waterpark in Magaluf is great fun. And you could also round off the day at the Pirates Adventure Show. Highly recommended! There is a smaller water park in Alcudia called Hydropark.
Languages spoken: Catalan (Mallorquin) and Spanish
Emergency services: 112
Currency: euro
Time difference: one hour ahead of UK
Phone code: 00 34
Flight time: Majorca is approximately two and a half hours from UK airports
British consulate: Carrer Convent dels Caputxins 4, Edificio Orisba B 4ºD, Palma.
T. 902 109356 (Mallorca); 00 34 917 146 300 (from the UK) WEBSITE
For an up-to-date weather forecast: www.eltiempo.es
Booking accommodation in Mallorca : www.pollentiarentals.com
Looking to buy a place in Mallorca: www.pollentiaproperties.com
Local laws and etiquette
- You must carry your passport or a copy, with you by law.
- You may have to show your passport when paying by debit or credit card
- For advice on using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) check
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/healthcare-for-uk-nationals-visiting-spain
- If driving, you must have two warning triangles, two reflective bibs, a spare tyre and spare headlamp bulbs.
- Children under 12 are only allowed in the front seat with approved safety belts.
- When eating out, lunch is usually from 1.00 pm, dinner from 7.00 pm – although locals tend to eat any time after 9.00 pm.
- A 10 per cent tip for lunch or dinner is considered normal.
- Most Spanish people you are introduced to by friends will want to kiss you on both cheeks, but this does not apply to hotel staff!
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Have a fantastic holiday!
