Majorca is a picturesque island with numerous areas of gorgeous pure magnificence. Though it’s vastly fashionable as a British vacation vacation spot, you can keep away from the concrete high-rise inns which have blighted its extra fashionable resorts if you happen to look exhausting sufficient!
From fairly rustic villages to Caribbean-like seashores, listed below are my favorite, extra under-the-radar spots for a vacation…
1. Puerto Pollensa
The northern resort city of Port Pollenca has attracted holidaymakers for many years. Nonetheless, not like among the different cities in Majorca, I personally assume Port Pollenca has completed a tremendous job of sustaining a sense of authenticity!
I really like that the prohibitive constructing rules have allowed the city to retain its historic buildings and keep away from being inundated with vacationer traps!Â
This place is a good alternative for its lengthy sandy seashores and the superb cafes and eating places. Like many different Majorcan cities, Port Pollenca was as soon as a fishing village, nevertheless it’s remained true to its roots, with many fishing boats nonetheless utilizing the port to dump their catch.
The port sits in a big horseshoe-shaped bay, which gives wonderful sea views in opposition to the backdrop of the close by Serra de Tramuntana mountain vary. A number of seashores will likely be explored, together with the tranquil Pine Stroll promenade and barely busier Port de Pollenca Seashore.
My favorite highlights…
Strolling alongside the magical pine stroll within the night and seeing the picturesque sundown.
Taking a visit to the Sunday market within the outdated city and discovering native treasures at over 300 stalls.
Occurring a hike to the Insta-worthy secluded Cala Boquer seashore surrounded by limestone cliffs and glistening waters.
My lodge alternative for Port Pollenca – Hoposa Pollentia
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2. Deia
This well-renowned picturesque village within the North West of Mallorca is dwelling to among the island’s wealthiest residents and has attracted guests for a whole bunch of years.
Artwork, music, and literature characteristic prominently, with the poet Robert Graves settling right here within the Nineteen Thirties and Virgin boss Richard Branson proudly owning a luxurious lodge simply exterior the city.
Head right down to the tiny seashore of Cala Deia for sunbathing earlier than grabbing a drink in Sa Fonda – an area bar the place you would possibly spot well-known musicians jamming the night time away.
I got here right here for tranquillity and to flee the hassles and tempo of contemporary life. If you wish to keep, there are a number of lovely boutique inns within the village.
My favorite highlights…
Exploring Son Marroig and seeing gorgeous views throughout the horizon.
Eating on the stylish Sebastian Restaurant, I extremely suggest the lemon risotto!Â
Partying the night time away on the full of life Sa Fonda bar positioned alongside the primary road.
My lodge alternative for Deia – Es Moli
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3. Sóller
Whereas most celebration resorts are close to Palma on the island’s Southside, the rugged North West is the place to go for a little bit of peace.
I extremely suggest attempting Soller, a big coastal city typically missed in favour of its extra showy neighbours. Set in a inexperienced valley surrounded by orange groves, mountains, and a transparent blue sea, Soller enjoys a fascinating place on the island.
The handful of boutique inns (attempt Lodge L’Avenida or Ca’l Bisbe), newly renovated harbour, and chic promenade lined with stylish cafes additionally guarantee it attracts a extra discerning crowd.
My favorite highlights…
Wandering across the lovely city and admiring the spectacular structure characterised by Joan Rubid.
Having fun with the scrumptious style of native oranges and citrus fruits on a visit to Ecovinyassa farm.
Taking a romantic journey on the scenic outdated picket prepare and seeing gorgeous landscapes.
My lodge alternative for Sóller – Bikini Island & Mountain
4. Portocolom
Recognized for its literary and musical residents, Portocolom has retained a lot of its unique allure and resisted the commercialisation that has unfold to different elements of the island.
A fairly fishing village, Portocolom was as soon as a thriving port however is now a quiet vacationer retreat with a number of giant inns and a sandy beachfront.
There’s loads to see and do, with native vineyards open to tastings, scuba diving colleges for the extra adventurous, and the traditional burial web site of Naveta inside straightforward attain.
It’s excellent for holidaymakers eager to chill out and see the quieter facet of Mallorca. The most important and most interesting sandy seashore right here is Cala Marcal, within the southern a part of city.Â
My favorite highlights…
Experiencing a crusing lesson with Escola Nà utica s’Algar faculty on the turquoise waters.
Mountaineering to the height of Puig Sant Salvador for breathtaking views overlooking the city and throughout the ocean.
Visiting the spectacular prehistoric burial web site, Naveta, courting again to 2,000 BC.
My lodge alternative for Portocolom – Portomar Flats
5. Cala Varques
If you’re spending time on the japanese coast of Majorca, Cala Varques is a must-visit location. It’s a secluded, pristine seashore positioned between the resort cities of Portocolom and Porto Cristo. Cala Varques is a cove seashore with a rocky shore and crystal clear water.
Though locals principally frequent it, it attracts few vacationers who spend their time exploring the foreshore and swimming.
It is without doubt one of the favorite seashores amongst nature lovers as the world is filled with a big selection of wildlife. There aren’t any everlasting retailers or eating places, which makes it superb for guests in search of unspoilt places.
In summer time, distributors typically promote meals and drinks, however you should carry your provides when visiting the world. To succeed in Cala Varques, drive down a gravel highway after which hike for about quarter-hour by a wooded space.
Alternatively, you may rent a ship for the day and dock it within the cove. The preferred actions right here embody snorkelling, swimming, and climbing.
My favorite highlights…
Going snorkelling within the crystal-clear ocean and discovering colleges of fairly fish.
Spending a day sunbathing alongside the golden sand.
Taking a guided tour across the spectacular caves.
6. Cala Figuera
Situated within the south-east of Majorca is the attractive village of Cala Figuera. It’s a small city that I believe has totally retained the ambiance of a conventional fishing port.
I’d counsel admiring the quaint cottages dotted alongside the rocky outcrops earlier than visiting an area restaurant or strolling on the foreshore.
A number of winding paths lead from the tiny harbour to the cliffs, that are price exploring. These paths result in numerous thrilling places, together with lookouts providing spectacular views and secluded coves. Though the closest seashore is 4km away, there are many alternatives for swimming and a diving faculty within the city.
Regardless of Cala Figuera having a resort really feel (only a very relaxed one!), it nonetheless operates as a fishing village. You possibly can pattern the native seafood by buying on the native markets or visiting one of many many high-quality seafood eating places.
There are a handful of inns in Cala Figuera, however there are additionally a number of gorgeous villas within the resort city, and I believe these are the most effective choices if you wish to keep there.
My favorite highlights…
Strolling down the scenic harbour and admiring the marina views and fairly stone terraces and white-washed homes.
Embarking upon a ship tour to discover the rugged coast on a basic yacht or luxurious powerboat.
Mountaineering to the Torre d’en Beu lighthouse for a powerful viewpoint on the island.
7. Valldemossa
As soon as named by Chopin essentially the most lovely place on this planet, this small nook of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains is now dwelling to one of many prettiest villages on the island.
Situated 17 km from Palma, the standard stone village has developed over time right into a small, romantic and picturesque resort city surrounded by forested hills and beautiful countryside, making it a beautiful vacation spot for out of doors lovers.
Right here, you’ll additionally discover the thirteenth monastery the place the composer Chopin as soon as lived in the course of the winter of 1838 to 1839.
The village is dwelling to a couple charming and exquisite inns, making it a superb different to the high-rise resorts on the coast!Â
My favorite highlights…
Visiting the Royal Charterhouse which is full of a wealthy historical past of Mallorca.
Having fun with a stroll by the cobbled paths surrounded by cypress bushes and rose bushes on the gardens of King Juan Carlos.
Exploring the attractive Sa Marina port.Â
My lodge alternative for Valldemossa – Lodge Valldemossa
8. Port d’Andratx
For a style of genuine Mallorca, I’d counsel heading to Andratx, a beautiful historic conventional city with outdated townhouses, cobbled streets, and exquisite sea views.
As soon as a former fishing village, mass growth has managed to flee Puerto de Andratx, I believe, because of the space not having its seashore. Nonetheless, don’t let that put you off—it’s nonetheless lovely!
Right here, you may count on low-key bars and eating places, a glistening harbour full of gently bobbing boats and a way more cosmopolitan and unique, well-heeled crowd!Â
For instance, it’s extremely popular with the yachting neighborhood and movie stars whose beautiful villas will be seen climbing up the hillsides.
My favorite highlights…
Trying out the fashionable and quirky retailers all through the city full of designer garments, lovely jewelry and enjoyable souvenirs.
Taking part in a spherical of golf on the unbelievable 18-hole course of Golf de Andratx.
Chartering a yacht and skipper for the day and exploring the southwest shoreline.
9. Estellencs
The small village of Estellencs is located on the shoreline of the Tramuntana mountains, removed from Majorca’s vacationer hotspots.
The drive into the village is thrilling, with hairpin turns and spectacular views of the encircling space. Nonetheless, when you arrive at Estellences, you’ll instantly really feel a way of serenity, as it’s a quiet location with lovely views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The village accommodates many timeworn buildings constructed over the previous centuries. Highlights embody the Sixteenth-century Tem Alemany Tower and the Seventeenth-century Saint Juan Baptista parish church.
The previous laundry sq., which dates again to Arab rule, I believe can also be a must-see, as is strolling the cobbled streets and marvelling on the unbelievable structure.Â
My favorite highlights…
Exploring the country, charming and Instagrammable streets positioned alongside a rocky shoreline.
Exploring certainly one of the distinctive climbing trails surrounding the city.
Taking a dip within the peaceable waters of Cala Estellencs seashore.
10. Pollenca
Within the northern a part of Majorca lies the historic city of Pollenca. It’s a lovely village turned discerning resort with unbelievable stone structure and dozens of attention-grabbing historic websites to discover.
The winding cobbled streets all through Pollenca are lined with nice eating places, cafes, and bars that showcase high-quality meals from native producers. Many historic places are close by, together with the 365 Calvari Steps, Formentor Lighthouse, Puil de Pollenca, and Placa Main.
Pollenca can also be dwelling to a few of Majorca’s most proficient writers, musicians, and artists. Right here, you may see fantastic artwork, uncover some nice literature, and attend concert events by unbelievable musicians.
Though the city receives its justifiable share of vacationers, it doesn’t really feel prefer it has surrendered to tourism. I personally assume it stays an genuine location that showcases the island’s wealthy tradition and historical past!Â
My favorite highlights…
Climbing up the 365 Calvari Steps resulting in the city’s high and the charming Church of Nostra Senyora dels Angels.
Stepping by the well-known, small however fairly Joan March Gardens and uncover the medieval Gothic tower landmark.
Strolling throughout the Roman Bridge which has an unknown previous and was solely first spoken of in 1403 historic sources.
Banyalbufar is a small coastal village located on the western shoreline of Majorca. It’s certainly one of a handful of unspoilt villages left on the island, and right here you may see how Majorcans have lived for a whole bunch of years!Â
Spectacular terraced hillsides encompass the village, with dozens of houses constructed within the conventional architectural type.
Mixed with the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean, Banyalbufar has a postcard-worthy look. A number of climbing trails result in the tops of the encircling hillsides.
The village has only some small inns, cafes, and bars. I personally assume this provides to the village’s authenticity, and also you by no means really feel like you’re in a location solely designed to fulfill the preferences of vacationers.
The traditional blonde stone buildings within the village really feel like stepping again in time, and I counsel visiting superb historic websites such because the Torre del Verger watchtower.
Though Banyalbufar doesn’t have sandy seashores, a number of pebbled seashores and tranquil coves are excellent for swimming or sunbathing.
My favorite highlights…
Tasting the native Malvasia grape at Celler Ca’n Pico, some of the unique wineries in Majorca.
Visiting the historic Tower of Ses Ànimes, courting again to the Seventeenth century, for lovely panoramic views.
Strolling to the paranormal waterfall in Cala Banalbafur to discover the coves.
12. Fornalutx
Nestled between two mountains excessive above the city of Soller is Fornalutx, which calls itself the prettiest village in Spain!Â
Providing a style of conventional Mallorcan life, I’m all the time charmed by this peaceable place, dwelling to saffron-coloured cottages and beautiful stone-cobbled streets surrounded by lush orange groves and exquisite mountain views.
I personally assume it makes a superb rustic different to all of the high-rise coastal resorts on this island, because it’s dwelling to some charming and rather more genuine lodging choices.Â
My favorite highlights…
Having fun with a espresso and people-watching on Plaza de España Sq..
Admiring the distinctive structure of the city corridor which contains a important defence tower.
Biking the well-known GR221 long-distance route.
13. Ariany
Ariany is without doubt one of the prettiest cities in Majorca, and I believe this makes an important addition to this record! Its conventional structure, cobbled streets, and tranquil environment make it an unspoilt haven. Centrally positioned within the island’s northern half, it’s a rural city with agricultural roots.
The numerous windmills, quaint farmhouses, and barns displayed close to the village mirror this historical past.
The city has a protracted historical past and has some unbelievable historic websites. My highlights embody the parish church (inbuilt 1570), De la Crew viewpoint (gorgeous views of Puig de Bonany and Puig de Randa), and the Creus de Termino o Termino crosses. There are additionally a number of climbing trails surrounding the village.
The city’s small measurement has meant that tour information operators hardly ever go to it. You’re a lot much less more likely to encounter different vacationers and have a singular alternative to expertise life within the island’s regional areas.
My favorite highlights…
Strolling across the vibrant weekly market held within the Plaza Mayor sq., full of stalls promoting native produce, clothes and extra.
Taking a visit to the romantic Mirador de sa Creu viewpoint surrounded by gorgeous rose beds.
Discovering the standard windmills, these iconic landmarks are unfold all through the world.
14. Es Trenc
Mallorca is full of lovely seashores, however discovering an undeveloped one isn’t straightforward. The lengthy pure seashore of Es Trenc shouldn’t be hooked up to any resort, so it has a extra pure, unspoiled really feel.
With its extensive stretch of sand and blue waters, it’s typically referred to as Mallorca’s reply to the Caribbean. Es Trenc’s barely remoted place and guarded standing as an unofficial nudist seashore have ensured its place off the tourist-the-tourist radar. Nonetheless, everybody remains to be welcome, clothed or not!Â
My favorite highlights…
Spending the afternoon constructing sandcastles within the vibrant white sand.
Grabbing some meals from Flor de Sal Es Trenc cafe and buying a few of their well-known salt.
15. Caimari
Caimari is a tranquil and picturesque inland village within the north of the island. Historically a farming city, Caimari is understood for producing wonderful olive oil.
Dozens of transformed farmhouses in Caimari at the moment are functioning as nation inns. The homeowners have fastidiously restored these buildings to mirror the unique architectural type of houses within the space.
This permits guests to spend time in genuine properties and perceive what life is like for everlasting residents. Most vacationers go to Caimari to chill out and discover the native space. Nonetheless, many actions can be found, together with climbing, biking, and golf.
The city has a number of wonderful eating places and alternatives to study extra concerning the space’s historical past. For those who go to in February, you’ll see almond blossoms in lovely shades of white, pink, and vanilla.
My favorite highlights…
Strolling as much as the well-known chapel of Lluc through the outdated pilgrim path while exploring the encircling nature.
Appreciating among the most interesting marjades on the island which assist to develop the olive, almond and carob bushes.
Visiting the attractive and vibrant outdated church which is worthy of an Instagrammable shot.
16. Cala Tuent
There are dozens of spectacular seashores on the island, however I personally assume few provide the identical expertise as Cala Tuent. It’s a secluded sand combined with pebbles seashore and nature reserve positioned within the north-west of Majorca. Cala Tuent is reached through a slender highway that traverses the Tramuntana mountain vary.
The drive is sort of pleasant, with some unbelievable views in the course of the journey. If you arrive at Cala Tuent, the gorgeous pure panorama will impress you. The plush greenery and glowing Mediterranean sea make for an idyllic setting.
Cala Tuent’s location means it receives far fewer vacationers than different seashores within the area. It’s the excellent vacation spot for vacationers who need to get pleasure from a soothing day by the ocean or discover among the island’s greatest climbing trails.
My favorite highlights…
Taking a picnic and spend the day stress-free throughout the 100-metre stretch of tranquil seashore.
Going snorkelling within the crystal-clear and calm waters alongside the bay.
Mountaineering by the Sa Costara path, which took me to Soller.Â
17. Cabrera Island
For my part, among the best methods to keep away from the hordes of vacationers visiting the island is by travelling south to Cabrera Island. It’s an uninhabited island about 50 kilometres south of Palma de Mallorca.
Cabrera Island’s panorama has remained just about unchanged for a lot of centuries. Because of its conservation standing, which signifies that no extra buildings will be constructed, it can stay that means. The island consists of jagged rocky outcrops and exquisite cove seashores.
Right here, you may get pleasure from a very numerous vary of wildlife, together with dolphins, ospreys, and falcons!Â
My favorite highlights…
Embarking on an tour to see the Blue Cave and swim in its vibrant, sapphire-colored waters.
Taking a guided tour to one of many many attention-grabbing factors throughout the island, such because the Cabrera Citadel, Serra de Ses Figueres and La Miranda.
Discovering the proper spot to observe a marvellous sundown over the island.
18. Campanet
Campanet is one other small city inside driving distance of Palma. The city receives only a few vacationers annually, which I believe has helped it retain a sense of authenticity.
Campanet is a good location for purchasing, with weekly markets (each Tuesday) and quite a lot of small companies down the primary strip. You can even go to eating places, cafes, and bars which provide wonderful native delicacies.
Nonetheless, Campanet’s main attraction is the attractive pure atmosphere surrounding the village. It’s positioned within the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, a visually gorgeous space with loads of climbing trails to discover.
My favorite highlights…
Exploring the chambers and passageways of the Coves de Campanet and discovering magnificent stalagmites and stalactites.
Wandering round magnificent stalagmites and stalactites at some of the uncommon nature parks in Mallorca, Ses Font Ufanes.
Stress-free in Placa Main Sq..
19. Santa Maria del Cami
This peaceable rural market city can also be an inventive hub on the Palma-Ina railway. Lots of Mallorca’s potters work shut by, and town is the centre of manufacture for ‘Roba de llengues’—cotton woven into vibrant zigzag patterns and utilized in curtains, bedspreads, and fabric.
I counsel visiting to purchase domestically produced arts and crafts, attempt a wine tour, or chill out within the peaceable countryside environment.
My favorite highlights…
Visitng the vineyard Bodegas Macià Batle.
Attending to know concerning the attention-grabbing historical past and tradition of the city by strolling by the streets.
Viewing an exhibit on the Ca’s Apotekari full of native heritage.
20. Mondrago Nationwide Park
I counsel heading southeast for one of many island’s most unspoiled, naturally lovely areas. Mondrago Nationwide Park is a distant, peaceable place well-known for its wonderful white sandy seashores, good turquoise sea, rugged cliffs, and darkish inexperienced pine bushes.
One of many two lovely seashores was as soon as named the most effective seashore in Europe, and though it hasn’t escaped tourism, its protected standing ensures it stays completely preserved!Â
My favorite highlights…
Taking a dip within the idyllic, turquoise waters alongside the south-east coast.
Mountaineering alongside Volto a sa Guardia d’en Garrot to wander by the gorgeous panorama.
