Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, Spain
It’s not only the sunny climate and 100+ beaches that have made Mallorca an enduringly popular destination in the Mediterranean. The largest of the Balearic Islands is also blessed with stunning scenery, picture-perfect rural villages, a trendy, cosmopolitan capital, and a huge choice of outdoor pursuits.
Neither too small nor too large, you can easily drive around the island in a day and there’s plenty of diversity to be found along the way, from the sophisticated shopping and thriving foodie scene in Palma to the traditional market towns and villages in the interior. You’ll find open plains dotted with windmills, the dramatic Tramuntana mountain range, where citrus groves cling to the hillsides, busy beach resorts and undeveloped, secluded coves.
Mallorca is a mecca for outdoors enthusiasts who come for the sailing, the mountain cycling, the hiking trails and the 20 golf courses, to name a few. Venture beyond the beaches and you’ll quickly discover Mallorca’s many charms.
| Languages spoken | Mallorquìn and Spanish |
|---|---|
| Currency used | Euros |
| Area (km2) | 3,640.11 km2 |
| Country name | Spain |
Activities for kids
Horse Riding
Adults and children can both enjoy exploring the area on horseback. Son Menut Equestrian centre offers classes, excursions and more for all ages. www.sonmenut.com
Eating Out
El Castillo del Bosque restaurant in Felanitx is a family-friendly establishment where kids can play in the playground while parents peruse an unusual menu and sample the local wines. elcastillodelbosque.wordpress.com
Katmandu Park
A huge theme park in the Calvia area, Katmandu Park includes a water park, soft play area, two mini-golf courses, a giant climbing frame and five floors of fun and games for older children. www.katmandupark.com
Aquarium
Recreating ocean habitats and ecosystems around the world, the Palma Aquarium is a fun and educational day out. There’s plenty of interactive displays and activities available, from snorkelling with rays to diving with sharks as well as jungle, garden and play areas for the little ones. www.palmaaquarium.com
Beaches
Mallorca’s coastline is dotted with beaches: some small, some large, some pristine and undeveloped, others noisy and crowded. Those with easy access and parking get particularly crowded during the summer months, so going early is a good option if you want to escape the masses.
Palma
Palma really does have something for everyone: Mega yachts line the Paseo Maritimo on one side, bars and restaurants on the other. The huge, gothic cathedral marks the heart of the old city, much of which has been carefully restored, and exclusive shops can be found along El Borne and Jaime III. The farmers market and the pedestrian streets of Santa Catalina are great for all ages, day or night. Kids will love eating at Trens, where food is delivered by toy train.
Soller
This pretty town on the far side of the Tramuntana mountains makes a good day trip for the whole family. Save time and take the tunnel – you’ll emerge in a lush world of terraced orange and lemon groves, and pretty cobbled streets. After exploring Soller, take the tram to Port de Soller and walk along the seafront, enjoy a swim at the beach or an ice cream at one of the many waterfront bars.