Mallorca
The island of Mallorca is the most popular tourist destination in Europe, largely because of the stunning variety of its scenery, its warm Mediterranean climate, the hospitality of the islanders, its rich cultural heritage and the richness and of its food and drink. Fortunately, most of the mass tourist market is confined to the southeast corner and the rest of the island is largely unspoilt.
Mallorca is synonymous with world-renowned beaches and coves, but is also a perfect destination to enjoy countryside, golf, culture, water sports, entertainment… There are many reasons to visit this enclave in the Balearic Islands.
The island measures almost 80 kilometres from one end to the other and is outstanding for its diversity. It has 550 kilometres of coast, where you will find some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful coves and beaches: white sand beaches with a full range of services, as well as small coves set between cliffs and pine groves in the north of the island. It has the most varied scenery of any Mediterranean island with high, forested mountains in the north (the Sierra de Tramuntana), and rich agricultural plains in the centre.
Its clean, clear waters are ideal for swimming and water sports such as scuba diving, windsurfing, fishing, sailing, and even surfing. However, these are not the only sports available: there are a range of well-designed golf courses, harmoniously set in their surroundings, suitable for all levels.
The countryside also plays an important role. Almost 40 percent of the island is protected. Its landscapes are characterised by contrast. There are outstanding areas such as the Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains, in the north, with peaks reaching over 1,400 m above sea level, and the Cabrera Marine and Terrestrial Nature Reserve, a group of islands and islets, just over an hour away by boat.
There are pleasant surprises to be found in every corner of Mallorca. Good ways to explore the island are hiring a car or going on outings. There are a host of routes and hiking trails, both along the coast and inland. They are fully signed, with information panels, meaning you can discover the island’s diversity on foot or by bike.
Towns such as Deià , Pollença and Valldemossa have captivated artists for centuries, on account of their picturesque atmosphere. Nowadays, Mallorca is a favourite holiday destination for famous people from the world of politics, film and fashion.
Culture is a vital part of the life of the island. Throughout the year there are festivals, concerts, literary events, exhibitions… The capital, Palma de Mallorca, is the island’s cultural centre, outstanding for its historic old town and excellent night life.
Furthermore, the island has excellent communications, with Son Sant Joan international airport, eight kilometres from Palma, and scheduled boat and ferry services from Palma and Alcúdia ports.The island’s airport, on the southern edge of the island, handles more passengers per year than any other airport in Spain and there are flights to most European cities all year round.
Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic group of islands and is located in the middle of the group with Menorca to the north and Ibiza to the south.Â
