18 BREATHTAKING ACTIVITIES IN MALLORCA, SPAIN
What you may not know is my love for a Spanish island.
When I first went to Mallorca, I was only 12 years old. My family immediately decided that this was one of our favorite places on the planet. From then on, we came back year after year and lived in different villages and towns every time. I have been there seven times, and now I know the island like the palm of my hand.
Yes, it is still one of my favorite places in the world.
My task is to ensure that every visitor to Mallorca can fall in love with the island as deeply as I do. So today I am very happy to share my favorite scenic spots with you.
Mallorca is the largest of the four Balearic Islands in Spain. It provides an impeccable balance between culture, beaches, mountains and cuisine. Its main city, Parma, has all the qualities of a classic Spanish capital due to its ancient castle and cathedral. But when you leave Palma? At this time, the quality of Mallorca became clearer.
If you take out dozens of charming villages all over the countryside, the scenery of Mallorca Island will be rugged. But in fact, you can enjoy these two sights in Serra de Tramuntana, which is listed by UNESCO, which will make you ready to book your ticket as soon as possible.
Of course, Mallorca is surrounded by the Mediterranean. Far inland, you will have a long list of golden beaches, luxury yachts and delicious food until you give up.
Visit Parma
The time in Mallorca is usually between the magnificent mountains in the north of the island and many beaches surrounding the mountains. But to start your trip to Mallorca, please start from Parma. It is not only the largest city in Mallorca, but also a popular base for exploring this amazing island.
You can spend several days exploring the bustling capital of Parma, which gathers more than half of the residents of Mallorca. Spanish culture and tradition are alive here, as is the long afternoon nap and evening dinner. It is easy to fall in love with the rich colors and flavors.
In Palma, the main areas to be explored are the old city and Santa Catalina. The reason for exploring the former is self-evident, while Santa Catalina is very prominent because of its popularity among young locals.
When you walk along the historic streets of the city, you will inevitably see the two main attractions of Palma, its castle and cathedral. If you add Parma’s seaside location, lively evening activities and beautiful Mediterranean, you will understand why it is the perfect place to start your adventure in Mallorca.
For convenience, you can use this 24-hour or 48-hour hop on and off bus pass to hop between 20 scenic spots in Palma.
View the scenery from Bellwell Castle
There are several magnificent castles on Mallorca Island, providing a window for travelers to understand the past. The best of these can be found in Palma, Belfort. Under the serious influence of the east, Belfort has a unique circular layout, reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum.
The construction of Belfort began during the reign of James II and spent most of the 14th century. So James never stayed overnight in the castle. In the following decades, the three kings of Mallorca settled down here.
You may be thinking, what happened after that? When it reopened as a military prison in the early 18th century, the royal residence began a completely different journey. Many French soldiers found themselves in prison after the Battle of Byron, and so did their compatriots after the Spanish Civil War.
Belwell Castle continues to change its appearance. It has been used as a currency factory and even as a private residence. But it is still a spectacular architectural work. You can visit the history museum on the spot, but the real highlight is to go to the observation platform of the castle and enjoy the amazing city and coastal landscape.
Continue to visit Palma Cathedral
Palma Cathedral is only known as La Seu. Like many cathedrals in Spain, it was originally a mosque. The conquerors came and went, and in many centuries, slowly transformed this space into a remarkable cathedral.
Careful and tireless transformation has made it one of the most unforgettable attractions in Mallorca. It stands at the edge of Palma Bay, with lights shining on the water and stars twinkling above. Although the view from the water of Palma Cathedral will keep your camera busy, the things inside will make you most excited.
This huge building spans nearly two acres, and the nave is more than 140 feet (44 meters) high. On both sides are sparkling colored windows, and the central installation can be traced back to the end of the 14th century. It provides an awesome glow for the interior and is considered as one of the largest windows on the earth.
When you continue to explore the historic Palma Cathedral, you will have the opportunity to see the huge triangle pedal that displays the last supper and the sky curtain designed by Anthony Gaudi hanging on the altar of the cathedral.
Palm trees taken at Arenal Beach. lunamarina/Shutterstock
Sunbathing along the southern coast
Now, you know that Mallorca does not lack a history department. But it is an island in the Mediterranean, and the golden beach is one of the main reasons why it has become a favorite destination.
You can look for a pink beach and blue water from all directions, but your first port should be the south coast. The coastline in the southeast of Parma provides the most shining beaches, towering cliffs and bays on Mallorca Island.
You will find what you are looking for here, whether it is a boiling beach day or a quiet escape from the noise of Palma. If you are pursuing the latter, go to Kara Brava. It provides a small bay without a large number of people. Swimming is very calm and the sand is very soft. Every time you look up, you can see the scenery of Palma Bay, which makes you smile.
However, the most popular beach along the coastline is El Arenal. This is a good place for surfing or swimming. There are enough activities in the water here, and it won’t scare young children. You can rent sunbeds, umbrellas and equipment. If you want to see some luxury yachts, there is also a yacht club here.
Porta del Moll, Vulcano/Shutterstock, Alcudia
Explore the old city of Arcadia
From south to north, we turn to one of the most interesting historical towns in Mallorca. Arcadia is crowded with famous buildings, important monuments and fortifications, and is surrounded by lush pine trees, green Mediterranean and rolling northern hills.
Most of the fortifications you found in Alcudia were designed to prevent pirates in the Middle Ages. Along the ancient city wall surrounding the town, you will find that the city wall can give you an unforgettable view of the town and the coast. It can be predicted that the narrow streets will guide you through lovely shops, snack bars and municipal squares, while the mythical farmers’ market in the old city is held every Tuesday and Sunday, which is the perfect choice for carrying picnic baskets.
But Arcadia is not just a palace house, city wall and 15th century church in the Renaissance. Alcudia also has some beautiful natural scenery, including Albufala. Here, you will find a nature reserve where 200 species of birds inhabit throughout the year.
The beautiful beaches of Alcudia. lunamarina/Shutterstock
To get more sand and sunshine, please go to the water and lie on the beach of Port Alcudia. Many small bays have baby blue water and amazing transparency. Whenever you feel hungry, just stroll to the seaside promenade nearby, with the sea on one side and the restaurant on the other, for a beautiful walk.
Beautiful Valdemosa. vulcano/Shutterstock
Go to the mountains and visit Valdemossa.
When you go north from Palma, it doesn’t take long to see the mountain to meet you. This area is full of beautiful mountain villages, which is a lovely addition to your time in the city and the Gold Coast. Valdemossa is one of the villages, a historic town that you must join in your trip to Mallorca.
Valdemossa is a village full of stories from the past. Its ancient buildings are still as charming as before, because they are located on the top of the mountain overlooking the northwest edge of Mallorca Island. This is a small town with two sides, providing tourists with a spectacular place to enjoy the Tramontana Mountains, and then through the winding road to the Mediterranean and the ancient fishing town Valdemosa Port.
Valdemossa’s life is slow. You will wake up in the silent voice. This sleepy village needs a minute to run. But soon the community gathered at Plaza Ramon Llull, a tree-lined central plaza surrounded by now vibrant cafes and bakeries. From there, the narrow pedestrian street leads you from Area A to Area B, passing through stone buildings with a history of several centuries, including the Real Cartuja de Valdemossa.
The monastery was built in the 14th century and has been a fixed point on the skyline of Valdemosa since then. It replaced the Alcassa of the Moors and has been the home of Friar Kartusa for more than 400 years. Today, we welcome tourists to visit several rooms and surrounding venues.
Sail out to sea
Mallorca was engulfed by the Mediterranean, providing unlimited opportunities to experience aquatic life. The most popular place is Parma, where you can jump on the boat and sail. You can not only explore the beautiful Parma Bay, enjoy the city skyline, but also easily go to the charming southern coast.
In this catamaran cruise, you will jump on the luxury catamaran Oasis. When you leave the bay and enter the broad sea, you will watch the ship meet the Mediterranean. When you cruise along the coast, you will have several chances to jump off the catamaran and into the cool sea.
Some stops include a cave, such as La Cueva Verde, where you can enjoy some delicious Iberian ham and drinks in your private place, and then continue to a series of beautiful golden beaches. Along the way, you can snorkel, kayak and try standing paddle, and then taste the chef’s coveted barbecue lunch, snacks and side dishes.
Mallorca Island is also famous for dolphins, so you must pay attention to them when you cruise.
Enjoy a noble life in Portus
When it comes to enjoying the good things in life, you can go to the attractive port of Portas to enjoy it. This charming town is famous for its resort and has long been the destination of choice for wealthy travelers and even the Spanish royal family.
It may not be your style or even your budget, but most of the glitz and charm of Portas can be experienced by walking. Think of it as a smaller Monaco. When you walk along the seashore, you will pass the high-end yacht dock, where there are 40-foot yachts and ocean-going motorboats. Back on the street, you will see all kinds of sports cars parked in front of famous shops and restaurants.
After bathing in the sun and daydreaming of jumping on many luxury yachts, you can choose coveted restaurants, each with its own sun terrace. In the warm Spanish sunshine, you can enjoy Michelin-star cuisine in Baiben, traditional Spanish cuisine in Restaurant Flanigan, or relax in the relaxed Tristan Bistro.
Life here is not just for the rich and famous. In addition to food, Mallorca’s Ocean Park is a popular family attraction. There are water slides, animal exhibitions and aquariums. It is a very popular place to take children.
Taste real olive oil
When buying edible oil, it is often a battle to save money or buy olive oil in luxury. This is a fight back and forth. However, even if we choose the more expensive (and delicious) route, it is still only a small glimpse of the real olive oil world. You know, it’s the kind of olive oil you can drink directly from the cup! “。
A manor located in the Tramontana Mountains is called Son Moragues, where there is a large forest of about 10000 olive trees. This famous olive oil farm was once the home of Duke Ludwig Salvatore, but now it is famous for its authentic olive oil.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore the manor in three different tourism projects, one of which will not only help to establish the quality of products, but also explore the olive oil culture of Spain and the interesting history of Son Moragues. During your exploration, your expert guide will open the prelude to the sustainable development of olive tree production in the manor, and you will also have the opportunity to taste the final results.
When you experience a lot of olive oil and a group picnic full of delicious homemade food, all of these will reach a climax.
Try real olive oil
When buying edible oil, it is often a struggle to save money or buy luxury olive oil. This is a repeated struggle. However, even if we choose the more expensive (and delicious) route, it is still only a small part of the real olive oil world. You know, it’s the kind of olive oil you can drink directly from the cup! “。
A manor in the Tramontana Mountains is called Son Moragues, where there is a large forest of about 10000 olive trees. This famous olive oil farm was once the home of Duke Ludwig Salvatore, but now it is famous for its authentic olive oil.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore the manor in three different tourism projects, one of which will not only help to establish the quality of products, but also explore the olive oil culture of Spain and the interesting history of Son Moragues. During the exploration process, your expert guide will open the curtain for the sustainable development of olive tree production in the manor, and you will also have the opportunity to taste the final results.
When you experience a lot of olive oil and a group picnic full of delicious homemade food, all these will reach the climax.
Road travel
Well, it may take six hours to drive on Mallorca Island, but owning your own car is the best way to travel because of its winding and narrow roads, gorgeous coastline and mountain scenery. In most cases, the traffic is not very bad.
So why should I tell you this? Well, this is a wordy prologue for your next adventure: Sa Calobra. Sa Calobra is part of the MA10 highway on the island, which connects a part of Escoka and the gorgeous beach of Cala Tuent, followed by Sa Calobra. Between the two destinations is an 8-mile (13-kilometer) narrow and winding road, without a dividing line.
During the whole process, there are 12 180-degree (or more) curves, including a landmark turn called “Nus de Sa Corbata”. This turn is almost 360-degree, and you can see the road bending under you. This difficult road will consume all your attention, so if you finally sit in the passenger seat and enjoy the amazing scenery, count your lucky stars.
I always say that the journey is more important than the destination. But along Zacarobula, the two are equal. After an unforgettable driving on the coast, you will arrive at Dhaka Cabra. Here, you will find a beach as narrow as the road, but it leads to the rock cliffs on both sides and an unforgettable sunset.
hike
There is no doubt that you will find a lot of hiking opportunities around Mallorca, especially when visiting the towns located on the edge of the Tramontana Mountains. The long mountains and steep coastal cliffs show that this compact island is still full of risks.
Around Mallorca Island, you will find that you can venture into the rock canyon, along the leisure coastal path, and of course, there are some leg burning, sweaty, high mountain hiking. If you want to plan ahead and add one or two hikes to your trip to Mallorca, you should consider the following aspects:.
Soller is not only famous for his train trip, city square and parish. Located at the foot of the largest mountain range on the island, it is the center of a hiker. The two popular hiking routes are the medium circular route to the small mountain villages of Fornalutx and Biaraix. Both take about 3 hours, so take enough water and leave enough space for snacks along the way.
Puig Major is the highest mountain in Mallorca. However, it is a military zone and cannot be accessed. Puig de Massanella is 4475 feet (1364 meters) high, which is the perfect backup. This is a 10-mile (16-kilometer) long loop with an altitude of more than 3500 feet (1088 meters), but all efforts will be rewarded, because you can quickly see the panoramic view of the coast through the dense oak forest.
However, how about dry stone roads if you want to achieve real challenges? This route spans 84 miles (135 kilometers) and is the ultimate exploration of Mallorca Island. It starts from the coast and crosses the Tramontana Mountains along a series of ancient roads.
Check Hams Cave
On the east coast of Mallorca Island, near the town of Christchurch, there is a charming underground maze. This underground scenic spot is called Cuevas dels Hams (also known as Hams Cave), which can be traced back to 10 million years ago. However, it was only more than a century ago that people first saw it.
Since that decisive day in 1905, this cave has become one of the most interesting things in Mallorca. But don’t panic. This is not a cave full of ham. In fact, its name is derived from a large number of stalagmites and stalactites standing and hanging like fish hooks (ham refers to fish hooks in Malokun language).
Lorenzo Caldentey’s father discovered the cave, and his contribution was to turn it into an accessible destination. He created a light show, which not only allows you to discover 15 different areas of the cave and the beautiful underground lake called the Sea of Venice, but also allows you to experience the so-called magic Mozart. This is a cave experience accompanied by musicians playing on boats floating on the lake.
In this Ham Cave experience, you will find more than 2700 feet (850 meters) of caves, and enjoy Mozart’s music in the sea of Venice.
Take the train to Soleil
Travelling on Mallorca Island with four wheels may be the simplest and often the most beautiful, but it is not the most unique. Such is the train trip between the capital Parma and the rural town of Soleil. Take the locomotive in 1912, and you will enter the Tramontana Mountains and go to your unforgettable destination.
The train still maintains its consistent style, with painted wooden ceilings, gilded wall lamps and leather and metal seats. The 60-minute journey starts from the historic Palma station on Mallorca Island (worth checking in advance), takes you through the fields of farms, carob trees and almond trees, and even stops in small towns along the way. It provides a unique perspective of life in Mallorca, which has existed since the beginning of the train.
After arriving at Solle, spend one afternoon (or even an extra day) to explore the beauty of another small town in Mallorca. You will find more dense streets, parishes in the 1300s, and town squares that seem to come directly from Disney movies. You can also go further and visit the Jardines de Alfabia of UNESCO, a palace surrounded by charming courtyards.
Watch Mallorca’s game
Sunshine, beaches and history may be the motivation for visiting Mallorca and many fascinating Balearic Islands. However, this does not mean that there are many similarities between life here and life in Spain. If you like live sports, why not look at La Liga?
RCD Mallorca is the two largest clubs on the island, headquartered in Palma. After visiting the cathedral and castle, go to the home town of Son Moix, which can accommodate more than 23000 fans. This may be very small by the standards of La Liga, but the island team has a long history in the top league of Spanish football. Who knows? You may even see Barcelona or Real Madrid after playing on the beach for a day.
Going to the stadium is not a big task. It is located 2 miles (3.5 kilometers) north of the city center. There are regular buses running on the race day, and taxis will also help. The home game really has a good atmosphere, but because the stadium is not often sold out, you can usually buy tickets at the door. But if you want to do it in advance, you can go to their website.
Taste local wine
Spain is the second largest wine producer in the world, most of which come from the rich Iberian Peninsula. But this did not prevent Mallorca from joining the ranks. The rolling hills in the inland and northern areas provide a suitable climate for the growth of wine, which means that you can not visit many vineyards at any time on the island.
It may be difficult for you to visit all 70 vineyards, so let’s help you divide it into several parts. Our first choice is the historic (and still family-owned) Ribas. This beautiful winery can be traced back to 1711. For more than three centuries, it has been the core of Mallorca grape cultivation. You can find this winery in the charming village of Consell. Visitors can visit the background of the winery before tasting some samples and a lot of snacks in the beautiful yard.
Other popular attractions include Ramanya Wine Cellar and Bodega Can Major. The former provides a charming desert environment and delicious wine. However, museums are the highlights. Inside you will find traditional agricultural equipment, carriages and pottery with a long history. As for Bodega Can Major, it is an organic winery, providing 200 lucky children with the opportunity to participate in their annual full moon harvest.
Want to explore the wine region of Mallorca under the guidance of experts? Please see this small group tour.
Explore the coast of Calvia
Well, you have ventured along the thrilling road to Zacarobra. However, you will be happy to know that the fun is not over yet. The drive along the Calvia Coast is an exciting follow-up to that epic drive. This road may not have so many hairpins, but the stops along the way make it worthwhile to go.
This spectacular highway has traveled more than 30 miles (50 kilometers) along the southwest coast. It starts from Parma and has charming beaches along the way. Because of this, we recommend that you take a few days to finish reading and bring an extra set of sunscreen.
The beaches to be added to your trip to Calvia include Palmanova Beach and Vinyas Beach. The former walked more than half a mile (1 kilometer) around the golden coastline. This is a popular beach for families because it has a series of facilities, let alone lifeguards and water sports.
Cala Vinyes is a small sand crevice suitable for farewell to the world due to its remote location. Relax under the sunshade, taste Sangria wine and read a good book.
Visit Mondrago Nature Park
You have seen towns and squares, and drove along Sa Calobra, so it is time to experience the best natural environment provided by Mallorca. Mondrago Nature Park is an undeveloped paradise and one of the island’s top treasures. Visitors will find a diverse world of animals and plants, as well as beautiful beaches like other places, but there is no crowd.
Near Santani, the park covers an area of 700 hectares along the southwest coast of Mallorca Island. It is easy to get here because of regular bus and road traffic. But you will soon feel far away from the rest of the island. Because the weather in Mallorca is very good all year round, there is no time when it is bad. In fact, the changeable but relatively mild seasons help to create a diversified landscape and a mixture of mountains, sand dunes and cliffs.
There are four simple hiking routes in the park. Each helps to show different aspects of Mondrago, from the mountains to the coast, and even its history, including military buildings, pirate hideouts and ancient waterworks. Bird watchers can give up the chance to visit. This is the best place on the island, where you can see peregrine falcons, vultures, turtledoves and red falcons.
Whenever you need to rest, you can go to many bays, where you can relax on the sparkling white sand, because the Mediterranean is rolling there.