Mallorca - Ultimate Travel Guide Notes

Overview

• Mallorca is one of the Balearic Islands in the western Mediterranean, off the east coast of Spain.
• Known for its beautiful beaches, charming villages, historic sites, and cultural scene.
• Over 500 km of coastline with more than 200 beaches.

Palma de Mallorca

Capital City

• City of sophistication and fun, excellent climate year-round.
• Historic quarter featuring the magnificent Gothic cathedral, constructed between the 13th and 17th centuries.
• The old quarter has cobbled lanes with market stalls, boutiques, and restaurants.

Beaches and Activities

• Five beaches and eight bathing areas with crystal clear water.
• Ideal for water sports, especially sailing.
• Gastronomy: Mediterranean and international cuisine using local products.

Belver Castle

• Gothic-style castle built in the 14th century for King James II.
• It has served as a royal residence and military prison; now a tourist attraction.

El Arenal Beach

• Located 10 km east of Palma; very popular beach with calm waters.
• Amenities: yacht club, public toilets, water sports rentals.
• Activities: water skiing, jet skiing, pedal boats, paragliding.

Porta Portals

• Glamorous marina known for designer shopping and people watching.
• Home to over 600 yachts, located 10-minute drive from Palma.
• Portals Beach: sandy beach with calm waters.

Magaluf

• Major holiday resort popular among British, German, and Scandinavian tourists.
• Features nightlife, bars, and famous DJs.
• Nearby Palma Nova Resort offers additional leisure options.

Lookmajor

• Overlooked town with history, archaeological sites, and agricultural tradition.
• September fiestas with local market and weekly Sunday market.
• Close proximity to Palma and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and golf.

Estren Beach

• Famous natural beach located in a national park.
• Offers a sense of remoteness and wild beauty, but lacks accommodations.

Cala Figuera

• Fishing and sports port known for beautiful coves and beaches.
• Nearby Natural Park of Mondrago is a hiking paradise with rare species.

Cala d'Or

• Popular beach area with beaches, excursions, nightlife, and a marina.
• Offers water sports and diving opportunities.

Manicor

• Second largest town in Mallorca, known for its tennis center (Rafael Nadal's birthplace).
• Tourists visit for the artificial pearl factory and easy train access.

Porto Cristo

• Traditional fishing village with calm waters, local restaurants, and Caves of Drach.
• Caves feature one of the largest underground lakes in the world.

Cala Millor

• Largest holiday resort on the east coast, known for its long sandy beach.
• Offers water sports and a seafront promenade.

Captopera

• Historical town with a castle and scenic views.
• Offers hiking opportunities and cultural heritage.

Arta

• Picturesque town with a weekly market, historic landmarks, and caves.
• Caves known for their mysterious formations.

Alcudia

• Year-round cultural hub with an array of events and historical sites.
• Nearby Porta Alcudia offers family-friendly beach holidays.

Tramontana Mountain Range

• UNESCO World Heritage Site with hiking, climbing, and cycling opportunities.
• Offers picturesque villages and historic towns.

Polensa

• Charming town with ancient architecture and local market experience.
• Port de Polensa has beaches and restaurants.

Port de Soler

• Scenic seaport with beaches and water sports.
• Connected by a historic railway to Palma.

Valdemasa

• Cultural town known for Chopin and traditional charm.
• Base for hiking excursions in Tramontana.

Fornalich

• Architectural jewel with historic significance and hiking trails.

Travel Considerations

• Best time to visit: spring (April-May) for trekking, summer (June-August) for beach holidays.
• Well-developed transport network; consider renting a vehicle for ease of travel.

Conclusion

• Mallorca offers a diverse experience from beaches to historical sites and outdoor activities.
• Ideal year-round destination with a vibrant cultural scene.