Mallorca - Around the Island

Alcudia

Alcúdia is a municipality and township of the Spanish autonomous community of the Balearic Islands, and a main tourist centre on the island of Majorca. Apart from the nearby sandy beaches the main tourist attraction is the Hidropark, as well as being home to Hotetur Bellevue complex, the largest holiday resort in Europe. Every Sunday and Tuesday there is a market in the old town of Alcudia. The beach at Alcúdia is 6 miles (9.7 km) long and stretches as far as C'an Picafort. Alcúdia joins on to Playa de Muro which is home to S'Albufera; a protected nature reserve that is very popular with bird-spotters.

Andratx

Andratx is located on the southwest tip of the island. The town of Andratx is ancient and until fairly recently inhabited by local Majorcan people. It has undergone a transformation over the last five years following the input of EU finance which has resulted in a facelift for the town and also brought foreign money. Andratx has a bustling market on a Wednesday morning, well worth a visit, however Port d'Andratx is a fishing port that has become an upmarket holiday resort. There's very few places on Earth as beautiful as Port d'Andratx and plenty of outside restaurants to enjoy both great food & great scenery.

Arta

Arta is a small town in the north east of the island, and has been occupied for at least 3000 years. It is a quiet peaceful location built on the site of a Moorish fortress. It is famous for the patron saint of Arta. Every January the saint is commemorated with a procession and blessing of all the local pets. The view from Arta is quite magnificent and just north of the town is the cove of Cala Torta. The town is a maze of steep alleys and streets that lead up to the hill top chapel of Santuari de Sant Salvador. It's worth the climb up for the panoramic views of the east and its gentle mountain range.

Banyalbufar

Banyalbufar is famous for its terrace hillside and is located south east of the Tramuntana mountain range. In Arabic times it was known as the vineyard by the sea. There is not much to see however it has become a popular area for artists to sit and gaze across the sea, and watch the sun fade over the horizon. A popular route to follow is from tjhe centre of Banyalbufar to the Port des Canoge follwoing the old road called the Volta des General. You will see the Verger Tower or Talaia de ses Ànimes, a really old defence tower on a cliff over the sea just outside the town of Estellencs.

Binissalem

Binissalem is a well-preserved old quarter town situated in the middle of the island, with a vast offering of traditional culture. Should you order wine from any Mallorcan restaurant on the island, it will most probably come from Binissalem. Every September a magnificent, vibrant wine festival is held. The best-known wine from the region is known as Bodega. The local red variety, Manto Negro, represents about 50% of the red grapes planted, the others being Cabernet Sauvignon, Callet, Tempranillo, Monastrell, Syrah and Merlot. The local white variety, Moll (also known as Prensal Blanc) represents about 70% of the white grapes planted, the other being, Macabeo, Parellada, Chardonnay and Moscatel.

Cabrera (Goat Island)

Cabrera - This Island translated into the word goat is 10km off the south coast. During the Napoleonic Wars, it was a notorious violent prison camp. You can now visit the island on day trips via a boat from Colonia de Sant Jordi and walk up to the 14th century castle above the harbour, and enjoy swimming in the blue grotto. The island is a protected national park and has been since 1991. Daily excursions by boat run from Colonia de Sant Jordi. The boat leaves at 9:30 a.m. and arrives back on the mainland at 5:00 p.m. You can also visit with your own yacht, but you must get permission in advance, and only 50 boats are allowed in the harbor (the island's only legal mooring place) at one time.

Further Info

Cala Bona

Cala Bona was originally a small fishing village however it now houses 3 of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Mallorca, and is a great area for watersports. Situated on the North-East coast of Mallorca, Cala Millor and Cala Bona are two popular and busy holiday destinations. Cala Millor and Cala Bona offer some of the finest beaches in Mallorca, and after you have finished your hard day's sunbathing there is a host of activities in the town to keep you occupied in the evening, along with some of the finest restaurants in the area. Most of the British Bars offer night-time entertainment like quizzes, bingo, race nights, karaoke, Play Your Cards Right, plus live entertainers.

Cala De Sant Vincenc

Cala De Sant Vincenc is based on the north tip of the Island. It is very popular with local Mallorcans. It has 4 small coves each with their own beach and a large limestone ridge, which casts shadows onto the sparkling blue sea. Recently this inspiring town has received a major face-lift and is becoming a must visit area for tourists. The Cavall Bernat is the impressive mountain as you look out to sea.

Cala d’Or

Cala d’Or - This is a large bustling resort with many beautiful scenic bays such as Cala Ferrera, Cala Gran, Cala Longa and Cala Esmeralda. It is situated in the southeast section of the island and was founded by Jose Costa, a native from Ibiza who built the very first housing estate. You can still see the defence towers built to warn of attacks from pirates in the 16th century. The beaches are narrow yet golden and the sea gently caresses the sand. This is a perfect resort for families with good sporting facilities and beautiful waterfront restaurants. There are magnificent luxury yachts anchored in the harbour alongside traditional Mallorcan fishing boats, this is where you can sit and dream and watch life pass by slowly. The people are extremely friendly and very hospitable.

Cala Millor

Cala Millor is situated on the east coast of the island. 50 years ago it was a quiet lonely deserted shoreline, today it is a vibrant enthralling major resort. It has 2 fantastic sandy beaches known as Cala Bona and Cala Millor, these beaches stretch unbroken for over 2km. In the summer season the resort comes to life with late night bars and funky discotheques. The resort still attracts many tourists, even in the winter when it is still promoted highly by travel agents as a must see resort. There are many sporting facilities as well as horse riding and go karting.

Cala Rajada

Cala Rajada - This resort is on the north eastern tip of the island, it is very popular for windsurfing and snorkelling. Many German tourists have made this resort their second home. The beaches are magnificent and there are a wide choice of top class restaurants. A beautiful 2km walk from the harbour through the woods will lead you to the lighthouse Punta de Capdepera, this is the most eastern point on the island. Many people visit this town to take day trips to Menorca.

Cala Rajada Beaches

Calvia

Calvia is famous for the magnificent church of Sant Joan Baptista. It was built in the 19th century around the original church, which was built in the 13th century. The town was founded in 1249 and had 80 residents, in the year 1960 there were 3000 residents, by the year 2000 there were nearly 15,000 residents all due to tourism. Nearby there are beautiful beaches and this area is now officially the richest municipality in Spain.

Calvia Beaches

Can Picafort

Can Picafort is situated at the north of the island. The resort has an amazing beach promenade which stretches for over a mile, there is a wide array of bars and restaurants offering modern and traditional cuisine. It is ideal for people traveling with families as many of the hotels cater for the young and there are various self-catering accommodations available. From the most northerly point of the resort there is a pedestrianised walkway and bicycle path which runs along the side of the beach as far as the very helpful Can Picafort tourist information office in the main town.

Colonia de Sant Jordi

Colonia de Sant Jordi - This was originally a small port next to the market town of Campos. Today it is a busy vibrant resort on Mallorca’s south coast, with magnificent views all the way to Cabrera, and a jaw dropping beach. Just to the north of the town are the hot springs of Banys de Sant Joan, these are well worth a visit. There are 3 beaches at the harbour side of the town. They are called Es Port, Es Dolc and Es Carbo. To get to Es Dolc (0.5 Km), and Es Cabo (2 Km), you can walk along the coast. Es Port beach is situated at the waterfront.

Colonia de Sant Jordi Beaches

Deia

Deià is a small coastal village on the northern ridge of the Spanish island of Majorca. It is located about ten miles north of Valldemossa, and it is known for its literary and musical residents. Its idyllic landscape, orange and olive groves on steep cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, served as a draw for German, English, and American expatriates after the first World War. The English poet, novelist, and scholar, Robert Graves, was one of the first foreigners to settle in the village, where he collaborated with Laura Riding in setting up the Seizin Press. Graves returned after the war and remained in Deià until his death.

Fornalutx

Fornalutx - If you love small, quaint, homely villages , this is a must visit location. The town itself calls itself the most beautiful village in Spain, and we believe it to be true. Take in a glass of chilled wine and soak up the views of the olive and orange grows as they encase the foothills of the Puig Major Mountains. Fornalutx has received different prizes and recognition. In 1983 it was awarded by the the Mallorcan Tourism Board the Silver Plaque for the defence and maintenance of the village. The same year the General Secretary for Tourism gave it the Second National Price for Towns embellished and maintained in Spain. And in 1985 it received the Premi Alzina from the GOB.

Genova

Genova was once a small village about 5kn from Palma; however residential construction has now made Genova a district of Palma located at the base of the beautiful Naburgesa Mountain range. According to the census of 1996, Palma had a total population 304250 inhabitants. Genova is considered to be one of the best places on the island to wine & dine with restaurants with rustic ambience where you can enjoy well-cooked local dishes.

Genova Restaurants

Illetas

Illetas is a small picturesque, landscaped town, with small sandy beaches beneath low rugged cliffs. There are also several tiny coves. There is also a range of quality hotels, bars and vibrant restaurants. Illetas on the south west coast of Majorca lies six miles west of the capital Palma. It is an exclusive resort, described as the Monte Carlo of Majorca, where the hotels have a minimum of four stars and the harbour is filled with luxury yachts. Many of the hotels have their own private beaches for the exclusive use of their guests. There are excellent restaurants serving international cuisine.

Inca

Inca is the third largest town on the island and is known to the tourists as the city of leather, and is also famous for a scrumptious cake made by the local nuns. Should you decide to go on a tour of the island with any of the tour operators most will bring you here on a Thursday when Mallorca’s largest market is held. There is a vast array of leather, jewellery and wooden products to buy. There are many coffee houses and a wide choice of restaurants.

Magaluf

Magaluf is probably the most famous resort on the island and attracts young holiday makers from the UK in large numbers due to it's 24/7 nightlife. The town has grown and grown and has merged with many of the local towns such as Palma Nova. There are many luxury hotels and a huge choice of bars and restaurants. Magaluf is a haven for beach and sun lovers and it is very popular even in the winter months for the older generation. Magaluf is a major holiday resort on the Spanish island of Majorca primarily catering for the British package holiday market. Magaluf is in the municipality of Calvià and is situated within a group of towns, primarily Torrenova and Palma Nova. The main airport of Majorca is approximately 24 kilometers (15 mi) away from Magaluf.The resort comprises three main beaches, popular for their white sand: Majorca Beach, Magaluf Beach and Palma Nova Beach. These beaches are lined with small bars and 'tat' shops backed by hotels.

Manacor

Manacor This is the islands second city and is very industrious. There are very few tourist sites however the town has a very local feel and is home to the world famous pearl factory, Perlas Majorica. This factory produces 50million artificial pearls a year using the scales of a million fish. Some people say they look like the real thing and you will be surprised at how much they cost. The town is visited every year by thousands of pilgrims who visit the church Esglesia dels Delors de Nostra Senyora to see the figure of Jesus Christ and kiss his blood stained feet.

Manacor Beaches

Montuiri

Montuiri is a small village on a hillside with the most amazing mill-towers, they are clearly visible from the main road. There is a small collection of bars and restaurants. In August the village plays host to one of the islands most amazing festivals. The Parish Church of Sant Bartomeu is one of the most significant buildings in Montuïri. Also of note is the Rectory building, which was built between the 14th and 15th centuries. On the outskirts of the village are the prehistoric remains of the Talayotic settlement of Son Fornés and the hill of Sant Miquel, with the Sanctuary of Mare de Deu de la Bona Pau, which dates back to the 14th century.

Orient

Orient - a small village in the Bunyola municipality and surrounded by beautiful mountains. Should you wish to visit one of the islands smallest hamlets this is the place to visit. The population was last counted as 31 - There are two roads to Orient, be careful should you choose the road from Bunyola, the road is nearly 10km long and very very small, we do not recommend this route if you are a nervous driver. On the highest point of the village, 450 metres high, is the parish church of Sant Jordi (Saint George) built in the XVIII century on the ancient chapel of the XIII century.

Palma Nova

Palma Nova - This was originally a small village, however since the tourist boom in the 80’s this resort has become a major resort on the island, and is very popular with the British. It has a large shallow bay and an amazing golden beach. The resort has grown that much it has merged with Magaluf, and the locals now call it Maganova! There are a huge selection of hotels, bars and restaurants. This is a fantastic base for family holidays.

Peguera

Peguera - This famous beach resort is very popular with the Germans and is an ideal resort for families and people of the older generation. It has two fantastic beaches and a fantastic choice of quality hotels, bars and restaurants. Just up the road you will be rubbing shoulders with the likes of Michael Schumacher.

Petra

Petra - This small village is famous for being the birth place of Mallorca’s most famous son- Fray Junipero Serra- he was sent to the USA and set up missionaries which grew into the major cities in the USA such as San Diego and San Francisco. There is a small museum in the town which is worth a visit showing how he worked and devoted his life to help others.

Platja de Palma

Platja de Palma - This resort is very close to the airport with a fantastic 5 km beach, the resorts of Can Pastilla and S’Arenal have merged along a beautiful palm tree lined promenade. There is a wide selection of hotels, bars and restaurants. At night time the views of Palma city are out of this world!

Port d’Alcudia

Port d’Alcudia - The port itself has now outgrown the town Alcudia, it was originally a small fishing port, it is now the biggest resort on the northeast coast. There is a 10km stretch of golden beach, along with fantastic restaurants overlooking the many yachts anchored in the port. There is also a wide array of hotels and bars and this resort is a family favourite.

Port d’Andratx

Port d’Andratx This port is one of the islands trendiest spots with stars aplenty to be seen, it has a wide selection of hotels, bars and restaurants and is hugely popular with the yacht owners who love to sail in and pose for the day. The port and bay are beautiful and the colour of the sea is a sparkling turquoise.

Andratx Restaurants

Portals Nous

Portals Nous - This area has the most amazing marina with some of the most expensive yachts in the world moored here. Do not be surprised to end up sitting next to your favourite movie star for lunch as they mingle with all the locals. The marina is a vibrant area during the day and really comes to life after dark with the many trendy bars and restaurants packed with locals and tourists alike watching the world go by and the twinkle of the lights from the yachts on the shimmering bay.

Portals Vells

Portals Vells- This area is off the beaten track there is a small restaurant on the beach and should you venture around the corner you will find Platja Mago a small nudist beach - this area is hugely popular for that all round tan!

Porto Cristo

Porto Cristo - Until Cala Millor came along Porto Cristo was the main resort on the east coast, it is a very family orientated resort, with a wide range of quality hotels, bars and restaurants.

Sa Coma

Sa Coma This was originally a village and since the tourist boom, it has become a very popular resort, with more 4*Hotels than low budget accommodation. Sa Coma itself is reached by a road bridge; however should you wish to be more adventurous park the car up and walk over the amazing footbridge across the fresh water lagoon, and be amazed at the vibrant underwater life beneath you.

Sa Coma Restaurants

Sant Telm

Sant Telm This a very quiet village with breath taking views of the island of Sa Dragonera, there are limited small restaurants and a few hotels. The wild but magnificent Dragonera, a location of stunning summer sunsets and rare creatures, was declared a nature reserve in 1985.

Santa Ponca

Santa Ponca - Santa Ponsa (Catalan: Santa Ponça due to a roman village called Santa Pontia) is a holiday resort in the south-west of Majorca. Located in the municipality of Calvià, it is 18 kilometres from the capital Palma. The resort is popular with Irish, Scottish, German and Dutch tourists. It is predominantly a summer resort with the season lasting from May to October. A family resort with plenty of bars, restaurants and nightly entertainment, and a clean and safe beach. There are two top golf courses in Santa Ponsa but visitors are only allowed to use the Santa Ponsa I course which, like Santa Ponsa II, has hosted a PGA European Tour event.

Ses Covetes

Ses Covetes This village’s name means ‘small caves’ and they are believed to have been here since the Roman times, there is a fantastic 3km stretch of pure white sand lapped by the clear blue sea. This village is more traditional and even has an unofficial nudist beach, which has been here since 1965.

Ses Illetes

Ses Illetes This resort is away from the hustle and bustle, however it does still have a wide range of cafes and restaurants with some beautiful hotels. It has two small beaches rated by the locals as the best on the island. This resort is ideal for the older generation and people with youngsters looking for a quiet relaxing holiday.

Sineu

Sineu This town is the official centre of the island with a fantastic market every Wednesday when the town really comes to life, there are a vast array of hotels, bars and restaurants and the market is a must visit for tourists and locals alike.

Soller

Soller This beautiful town is set in lush orange groves and is hugely popular with holidaymakers and day-trippers, it has a magnificent beach that leads up to a beautifully paved area with a huge selection of cafes and tapas bars. The hotels are beautiful and many overlook the sea. Soller is famous for its fantastic train journey to Palma on a vintage train, this is a must do for all tourists the views are quite spectacular. It also has two very interesting museums worth a visit.

Soller Restaurants

Valldemossa

Valldemossa - This town set in the hillside it is quite breathtaking and is a very popular tourist area, it is famous for been the hideout for Frederic Chopin and his lover George Sand. There are fantastic restaurants, bars and some unbelievable hotels. This truly is a place to sit and watch the world go by, and do not be surprised if you bump into Michael Douglas and Catherine when they visit their home every year.

Mallorca Around the Island | A Tourist's Guide to Majorca

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