Villa Infinitum in Port dAndratx might just be the most beautiful villa on the island. Your saviour when you need to dump all your bags when shopping in Palma, the Cappuccino nestled within Palmas backstreets has a courtyard that is a suntrap and the staff wont mind if you spend an afternoon there taking in the beautiful surroundings (and trying cocktails from their impeccably crafted cocktail menu!). Located steps away from the Borne in the historic center of Palma, El Bandarra is just off the beaten path enough to avoid heavy foot traffic. . Tucked into a tranquil valley at the foot of the Tramuntana, Cap Vernell is a delight. Keep in mind that parking here is limited. Eat at fish restaurant Cas Patro March, where Hugh Lauries dastardly Richard Roper dines his entourage (+34 97163 9137). Fly into the Palma de Mallorca airport (PMI) in the morning and pick up your rental car. Nowadays is a must in every road trip in Mallorca. Mallorca is STUNNING. Ive enjoyed a staycation at Castell Son Claret during my last time in Mallorca and I totally recommend it. You can never go wrong with a Belmond, and La Residencia is no exception. 
If you want to splurge, then pay a visit to Zaranda restaurant, the only 2 Michelin starred restaurant in Mallorca, located in Castell Son Claret. Public transportation is not always the most convenient option, though, and relying on taxis all the time can get quite expensive if you want to move around the island. I absolutely love your whole site! You need to visit the cathedral, walk its beautiful alleways and have a drink or two at any of the terraces in the main square.
More informationhere. Visit a Mallorcan Finca & Olive Grove:Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa has introduced a number of visitor experiences to its offering, ranging from sunset boat trips to helicopter rides to gin tasting. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Travel Insured is my preferred partner when it comes to protecting my trips! If you can coincide your trip with the first Aubocassa harvest of the season (and wangle an invite from the family), youll be treated to a wine and olive oil tasting, watch the liquid gold (or vivid green) being made, and then be treated to a sumptuous menu of at least a dozen courses. Thank you for the awesome tips! Then there are the citrus fruit, almonds and apricots, the artisan cheeses and the supremely palatable red and white wines. Would you like to receive these? British chef Marc Foshs eponymous one-Michelin-starred restaurant in Palma is open all year round and worth a visit for his exceptional Mediterranean dishes using only the freshest local produce(marcfosh.com). Mallorca looks like such a lovely island escape! Reservations are recommended and can be made here. This place was home to Comte Mal the Evil Count back in the 15th century, and hes allegedly still riding his horse every night. but theres also a complimentary shuttle service to whizz you up and down for ease. Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement / Competition T&Cs / Terms & Conditions / Social Competition Terms & Conditions / Competition Past Winners / Sitemap, 2022 Country & Town House. Book it: Doubles at Park Hyatt Mallorca start from approx 300 during the winter months (from 640 peak season), including breakfast. Zarandain the luxe Castell Son Claret hotel on the west coast is the only restaurant on the island with two Michelin stars. Many locals outside of the tourist areas will not speak English or German, so it is best you know at least a few phrases, like how to order coffee, water, where the bathroom is, and if there is space for 2. Hire a driver in the morning (if its Wednesday Saturday starting at 11 am) to take you out to Binigual vineoteca for a wine tasting and tapas experience. Rent a car and enjoy scenic drives across the island, from the capital to the golden sands of the Bay of Alcudia, or from well-heeled Port de Sller on the west coast to the Cap de Formentor lighthouse, perched among the dramatic peaks of the islands northernmost tip. The villa is set across five floors, with five king-sized bedrooms, an infinity pool, indoor spa, open plan living area and billiards room. And if they were on a boat anyway, why not go to France? If youre looking for more than a beach-and-crash break, opt for the luxury of the shiny new Park Hyatt nestled in the tranquil valleyof Canyamel on the far east of the island, the groups first resort in the Mediterranean. 
But perhaps the most peaceful spot is the award-winningTalise Spa, featuring a Hammam, salt room, glass-fronted sauna, sizeable gym and the pice de rsistance: a thermal outdoor pool looking out to the mountains, reminiscent of the spas of Switzerland. The inhabitants of this idyllic village lived for centuries hidden in a valley behind a huge row of mountains. Mallorca is generally safe, but as a tourist keep an eye on your belongings as opportunist thefts do occur. . And if youre still unsure of where you want to go or what type of holiday to book, get in touch with theDesigner Travel expertshereand one of the team will be in contact to help you arrange your perfect tailor-made break. Follow the marked trails to discover this pristine island. When it doubt, Google Translate is a great resource!
Make sure to check out the Cancel for Any Reason & Bed Rest Options for extra coverage! This place, where locals now sip their coffee, was where most of the Mediterranean area's trade was handled during the Middle Ages. Mediterranean fare is the focus, with a mixture of paella, fresh fish and meat dishes to choose from. London, SW6 4QL Tel: +44 20 7384 9011, of Cap Vermell, the treatmentrooms overlook, There are several excellent wineries on the island (Bodega Ribas is the oldest and known for its excellent house white based on Mallorcan grape Prensal), but for a tasting with a difference, ask the locals for any olive harvesting dates. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Then head just outside the city and visit the Mir Mallorca Foundation, where Joan Mirs old workshops are filled with his art. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, they offer a really good breakfast buffet in the mornings followed by freshly prepared seafood, salads, paella and tapas, often running barbecues in the evenings. Have dinner at one of my favorite local spots in town for some amazing Sushi, Mar Chica (reservations recommended). While Mallorca does have a much more relaxed and island vibe than other parts of Europe, you do still need to wear clothes. I have clients in Ireland AND Scotland right now, In the words of Jordan Belfort portrayed by Leonar, sunset sail on board a local sailing yacht. Even my parents loved it. To the north of the island, a mix of resorts and smart hotels fringe the bays of Pollensa and Alcudia, while the hinterland is wrapped in the scent of almond blossom and peppered with golden-hued farmhouses-turned-holiday villas, country estates and mountain monasteries that are now luxurious rural retreats. The on-site Serenitas Spa is one of the most attractive spa spaces in the Mediterranean. Mallorca is much more casual than other European destinations, and the lifestyle reflects that.
A jewell among Mallorcan hotels, not only is the resort traditionally stunning, but they also have their own 30 acres of olive groves and that produce olive oil. Right in the centre of Mallorca lies Sineu, the island's oldest village. Guided tours take around one hour and include a boat trip across Lake Martel. Caves del Dracht, Valdemossa, and Cap de Formentera. The tram passes in between the terraces every few minutes, as if you were in Vietnam! In 1911, a tunnel was dug through the mountains so that the people of Soller could finally have better access to their own island. I have a Revolut Bank account to easily transfer currencies & see current exchange rates- its like an amazing version of Paypal & Venmo all at once! })(document, 'script', '//aff.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js'); Getting around Mallorca is easier with your own rental car. For a journey with a difference, why not hop on the vintage train from Palma to Sller? As with the rest of Spain, Mallorca uses the euro. Wooden carriages rattle along a 100-year-old narrow-gauge railway, offering sensational views as it climbs through the mountains, across bridges and through tunnels to the picturesque mountain village. The island isnt short of local ingredients, from cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil to sea salt hand-harvested from the salt flats in Es Trenc. s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date()); Its prime waterside location means delicious, fresh fish, which you can enjoy alongside glorious port views. Thanks for the very informative posts and great pictures. As the neighbor island Ibiza, Mallorca has one of the most incredible beaches. No. Although parking might be a constraint, this is an amazing spot to catch the sunset and take a few pictures.
There's also a small bar and restaurant where you can recharge your batteries and enjoy a meal with fantastic views. Book it:Take exclusive use ofVilla Infinitumyear-round startingfrom 18,000 per weekbased on 10 sharing. For spectacular views, it doesnt get much better than Cap Roig Brasserie, named after the famed local red fish. Head to Maca de Castro in Port Alcudia for a modern twist on traditional Mallorcan cuisine, while Andreu Genestra also celebrates island produce at his self-named restaurant in the countryside, near Capdepera. There is a bus line and a very small train system. A bustling city, the island's capital never fails to surprise and impress all who visit. To fully experience this otherworldly terrain, explore the rock tunnels and take a dip in the turquoise water. Originally built as a royal palace in 1309 and later converted into a monastery of the Carthusian order, the Carthusian Monastery of Valldemossa is an impressive complex that houses a palace, a church, an old pharmacy, an art collection of some of the greatest modern Spanish and local artists, and the cells where the monks lived for 400 years to find peace and rest. After 3 visits to Mallorca, these are my favorite beaches in the island: Mallorca is perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying nature through active tourism. Your pictures are sooo gorgeous! The summer calendar is liberally sprinkled with local festes (festivals), from the fires on the beach to celebrate Sant Joan in June to the Battle of the Moors and Christians in Pollensa in August. Your photos are so dreamy Diana <3, Your email address will not be published. by Sydney Zaruba | Feb 23, 2022 | EUROPE, Love Notes from Spain, Mallorca | 0 comments. p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); I hope to visit Mallorca someday. CURRENCY: Spain uses the Euro. This includes daily breakfast, daily maid service and a dedicated villa manager to assist with housekeeping and additional services. Visit in the summer months and expect busy beaches and difficulty parking near certain coves and smaller coastal villages.
Staying on the west side?
Head to your hotel for check in, if you are staying in Palma, head to El Bandarra for dinner. Click on the star to save all these locations on your Google Maps! Drive through the Tramuntana to Port de Pollenca and take in the scenery. Make sure to visit as many charming towns as possible. We would also like to send you exclusive promotions, competitions and content from The Times and Sunday Times and selected partners. A botanical garden staircase meanders through the centre with bedrooms flanking either side, and up towards a restaurant, adults-only infinity pool (theres a family pool elsewhere), and large sea-view terrace complete with day beds. We cannot stop recommendingJumeirah Port Soller, a 5* hotel with dreamy sea views and one of the best sunsets in Mallorca. Soak in some culture in Es Baluard Museu d'Art Contemporani de Palma, which houses over 700 artworks created by Baleriac artists of international renown, from the late 19th century to the present. All rights reserved. Plus, Calvi is hometown 36 beaches, being the most beautiful ones El Mago, Calita dels Portals Nous, Cal den Pelliser, and Illetes. Its lovely to stroll around the small markets in towns such as Felanitx, Mallorca. These classic Mallorcan dishes are a sure way to put a smile on your face! This is also where you will find most of the must-see tourist attractions, such as the magnificent La Seu Cathedral, the Royal Palace of Almudaina, and the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary. The port and beach is around a 15 minute walk down a steep hill (a little longer on the way up!) I have been wanted to go to Mallorca ever since I met two ladies from Spain who vacation there every year. It was built over hundreds of years on the ruins of the mosque that once stood there. The island has suffered from a party reputation in the past, but this is restricted to certain enclaves such as Magaluf and Playa de Palma, so is easily avoided unless thats your scene. I even go to a yoga studio r e g u l a r l y. You almost never need to leave the resort (we wouldnt blame you). Owner Nick Bampton describes Villa Infinitum as a votel a cross between a villa and hotel. Avid cyclists come in spring to tackle the winding routes that climb the Serra de Tramuntana and Sierra de Llevant mountain ranges, while walkers can take their pick from scenic coastal routes and countryside trails, and sunseekers set their towels on the sands of pine-backed coves and sweeping bays. Next stop: Dragonera Island, an uninhabited, dragon-shaped island with a water preserve for waterfowl and lizards. A newly-renovated 19th-century mansion, it is sophisticated, yet simple. From the impressive Sant Bartomeu church to the tram chugging its way through town, its a beautiful place for a laid-back lunch. Theres no shortage of scenic drives in Mallorca. Radio Taxi Palma is the name of the local smartphone taxi app in Palma. s lovely to stroll around the small markets in towns such as Felanitx, Mallorca. If youre based on the west side of the island, explore the World Heritage Site of Serra de Tramuntana by bike or on foot, or set out on a coastal route straight from your hotel. THE ESSENTIALS OF YOUR MALLORCA TRAVEL GUIDE: BEST TIME TO TRAVEL: April June & September AVOID July & August if you arent a fan of big crowds , with massive heat. The ride from Palma to Sller lasts about an hour, and it offers beautiful mountain views. I am saving this. Not only this, but on the other side you have the Tramuntana mountains, skirting the length of Mallorcas northern coast. Extremely popular among nature lovers, this mountain range sprawls along Mallorca's northwest coast, offering one breathtaking vista after another as well as the island's best trails for hiking and mountain biking. Theres no doubt why some of these hotels are chosen by many every year to celebrate a memorable wedding. Take the wine suggestions from the waiter as you go through a culinary experience at this Michelin Star restaurant. October & November is rainy season. The best hotel in Deia? Its the kind of place you could while away hours sipping ros and soaking up the fresh sea air. Sller is a beautiful old town in the heart of the valley of oranges. There are several restaurants in the area, and while the Pura Vida restaurant arguably has the best views, Bon Bar is tucked into the stunning little cove and is a great place to people and boat watch. Learn how your comment data is processed. Mallorcas cuisine is a veritable mix of mar y montaa mountain and sea. Home to salamanders, geckos, among other lizards, this wild, uninhabited, dragon-shaped islet off the dramatic southwest coast of Mallorca can be reached by ferry from Paguera or, for the adventurous, by kayak! The rooftop pool and the onsite bar and restaurant are sure to win you over. Whether youre a foodie, explorer, or sunbathing devotee, the island caters for all types of traveller, and its idyllic beaches are a certified crowd pleaser. Click here to get a 38$ discount on your first booking on Airbnb. Mallorcas beaches, however, with their golden sands and crystalline waters, remain the islands biggest draw. Wow this is awesome and going on our list of places to go! Click here to get here a 15% discount on your Centauro car rental. Finca Galatz is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Calvi. Amazing guide youve fully convinced me to go to Mallorca. We had a beautiful meal by the sea at Balneario Illetas. So if you have been following along on my stories, 5 Tips for Visiting Mykonos! Wow what a dreamy place! (If you didnt rent a car you can take the Soller Train and make this a day excursion). While youre in the area, pop to the idyllic village of Dei, which English poet and novelist Robert Graves put on the map when he built his home there in 1932, and more recently featured on BBCs. Starting prices for hotels: 1* 100, 2* 150, 3* 200-250, 4* Hotels 250-400, 5* Hotels 500+. Its a great time to visit Calvi as the atmosphere is really cool andthe traffic is closed due to the challenge. Order from their menu of top quality steaks, and vegetarians, fill up your plate with the eclectic salad bar and let your food go down by the toasty fireplaces. Hot New Hotels 2022: International Openings. This beautiful architectural wonder offers breathtaking views in every direction and is the perfect starting point for a walking tour through the city. An utterly delightful place to stay. AVERAGE COST OF ACCOMODATION: The average nigthtly cost for a hostel will start around 35 a night. Gastronomic market housed in a historic hall offering visitors an authentic taste of the Balearics in a lively ambience. The hinterland is wrapped in the scent of almond blossom. Everything can change in a second. It may be tempting to dash straight to Mallorcas beaches, but stick around in Palma for a while and discover a thriving city packed with trendy eateries and rooftop cocktail bars, galleries, boutiques and the impressive Es Baluard contemporary art museum set in a 16th-century fortress. The format for this guide was so easy to read and aesthetically appealing. Across all of these and throughout the hotel service is second-to-none, with welcoming, friendly staff there to cater for your every whim. As everywhere else in Spain, Mallorca is a real pleasure in gastronomy. There is so much more to do in Mallorca than party and soak up the sun but be sure to indulge in some of that too. Covid-related restrictions may be in place. As well as being a very popular destination for sun worshippers with a love of cocktails and clubbing, this Balearic jewel has a long and rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and an irresistible charm. At the heart of labyrinthian coves lies a secluded, grainy sand beach. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. There is no Uber or Lyft on the island. The best way to explore the Island is by car. Ancient tower perched on the craggy Mallorca coast offering picturesque views of the Mediterranean sea and the surrounding mountains. Its recommended to book the tour in advance. Theres no shortage of Mediterranean beauty in Mallorca. For a simply divine and top quality steak, make your reservation at La Hacienda and prepare to waddle home afterwards. While clicking these links won't cost you any extra money, they will help us keep this site up and running! View our terms and conditions. Taste some of Mallorcas award-winning wines at Jos Louis Ferrer and the numerous other bodegas - in the September Wine Festival, Binissalem is just one long table laden with wine and food. For starters, the burrata is a must served here with a particularly delicious aubergine tartare and cilantro pesto. Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Perched on a cliff overlooking the idyllic fishing village below, Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa boasts some of the most dramatic views on the island. Its a large island more than five times the size of its siblings Menorca and Ibiza and theres an abundance of things to do, see and eat. But jokes about how I cant settle down aside, Mallorca is full of stunning scenery, delightful vineyards, and a unique cuisine and culture completely different to the rest of Spain. A guide to the glittering Balearic island, This post may contain affiliate links. One of two eateries at the hotel, the Sea Club is a relaxed, al fresco spot overlooking the ocean, with deck chairs, wicker table mats and blue tableware adding to the seaside ambience. One of their newest and most charming is an intimate tour of a traditional olive grove: Finca Son Moragues, located around 30 minutes drive from the hotel. Subscribe for weekly inspiration and deals from The Times and The Sunday Times. By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. Over on the west side, hotel and award-wining restaurant Villa Italia in Port DAndratx is one of the best places to eat. It might seem like a weird choice for breakfast, but youre on vacation. Learn more. At the end of the tour, a classical music concert completes the magical setting. Any of these local staples are traditional and known in Mallorcaso enjoy the cuisine! But the crown jewel has to be the glamorous roof terrace, complete with a Jacuzzi-style pool, outdoor kitchen space, and 180-vistas of the Mediterranean and Tramuntana mountains beyond.