Majorca Holidays

When you’re not out beach-hopping, Majorca is a superb spot for immersing in urban exploration, rural adventures and natural attractions.

• Visit Palma: From its Gothic cathedral to its medieval streets and smorgasbord of restaurants, the capital of Majorca is chock-full of surprises around every corner. Dating back to the 13th century, Palma de Mallorca blends history with modern attractions, making it an exciting destination for city breaks in the sun.
• Go hiking in the mountains: Serra de Tramuntana is a UNESCO-listed mountain range on the northwest coast, brimming with hiking, biking and driving trails, as well as waterfalls, wineries, villages and views. The Ruta de Pedra en Sec (or Dry Stone Route) is just one of the range’s superb trails made up of ancient footpaths and dry stone walls that span 100km.
• Explore fascinating caves: Home to Europe’s largest underground lake, the Drach Caves near Porto Cristo offer a unique glimpse into subterranean landscapes, complete with stalactites and stalagmites lit up in bright colours. The Coves d’Arta, home to the 22m-tall Queen of Pillas is another cave worth visiting, as is the Coves dels Hams, where your journey features being serenaded by a live orchestra.
• Discover photogenic villages: Away from the bustling tourist hubs, you’ll find some of the most postcard-perfect hamlets on the Balearics. Deia, a haven for artists and writers of old, is an enchanting village lined with honey-coloured stone houses, unique boutiques and independent art galleries. Valldemossa and Pollenca are equally as Instagram-worthy.
• Catch the vintage train to Soller: This centuries-old tram trundles through the countryside from Palma de Mallorca to the captivating town of Soller and down through the orange groves to Port de Soller, on the island’s northwest coastline. Enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront or explore Soller’s historic old down, stopping by Sala Picasso and Sala Miro as you go.

With different settlers – from the Greeks to the Phoenicians – leaving their mark here over the years, it’s no surprise Majorca is rich in ancient delights. Tight on time? Here are a few of our favourites:

• La Seu Cathedral: Built on the same spot as a former Moorish mosque, the Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca (also known as La Seu), is a 14th-century cathedral in the heart of Palma. Home to the largest rose window in Europe, it also features intricate carvings and interior designs by famous Spanish artists like Antoni Gaudí and Miquel Barceló.
• Bellver Castle: This 14th-century royal household-turned-military prison is located on a hillside overlooking the city and is one of the few circular castles in Europe. Built by King James II, this regal fort now houses artefacts from the island’s history.
• Royal Palace of La Almudaina: Originally an Islamic fort, the Gothic-style Royal Palace of La Almudaina is now the King of Spain’s official residence for ceremonies. Also springing into life in the 14th century, it’s famed for its arched windows, paintings and tapestries, all of which you can see on a tour of the royal apartments, chapel and gardens.
• Ruines Romanes de Pollentia: Step back in time at the island’s most important archaeological site, housing ancient artefacts and actual Roman ruins. On a visit to this former imperial city, you’ll peruse the remains of a 2nd-century forum, necropolis and a theatre, all of which provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who once lived here.
• Puig de Sa Morisca Archaeological Park: South of Santa Ponsa beach, you’ll find ruins of a prehistoric village dating back to the Bronze Age. Defensive towers, walls, temples, houses and workshops are just a snippet of what you can expect to see here.

Boasting more than 300 beaches, Majorca draws in sun-seekers far and wide to its powder-soft shores and aquamarine waters.

• Puerto Pollensa: This sheltered spot backed by the Tramuntana Mountains has a wide, sandy stretch great for water sports like kayaking, windsurfing and sailing. The nearby promenade and marina provide the perfect place for post-sunbathing grub.
• Palma Nova: Pad along 1km of white sand dotted with sun loungers. This beach’s shallow water makes it a great place for kids, as well as its variety of water sports, playgrounds and beach bars (though the latter is mainly for you).
• Cala Varques: Framed by a natural rock arch, cliffs and trees, the secluded cove of Cala Varques – located between Porto Colom and Porto Cristo – is a prime spot for snorkelling. Make sure to pack some shoes for rock climbing, as well as enough food and drinks for the day.
• Cala Mesquida: You’ll take a wooden walkway through the dunes to get to this unspoiled crescent nestled amongst the backdrop of Llevant Natural Park. Peace and quiet is what you’ll find here, as well as a handful of restaurants and casual snack bars.
• Es Trenc: Considered the most beautiful beach on the island, Es Trenc (sometimes called the ‘Caribbean Beach’) boasts powdery white sands backed by dunes and lapped by crystal-clear waters. Sun loungers, SUP boards and other water sports equipment are available to hire, but we won’t blame you for wanting to stay horizontal for the entire day.

Whether you’re one for watching the sun come up after dancing the night away or prefer rounding the evening off with an after-dinner tipple, nightlife in Majorca has it all.

• La Lonja: This scenic spot in Palma Old Town comes to life after dark with its intimate lounges and bar-hopping opportunities down lively Apuntadores Street. Bar Abaco, El Barbero and Kaelum Club are popular haunts.
• Santa Catalina: Also located in Palma, Santa Catalina has a myriad of after-dark gems, from swanky cocktail bars to Irish pubs – party up high at Hostal Cuba Sky Bar, sink shots at open-air Es Baluard or ogle at creative tipples at LAB Cocktail Bar.
• Magaluf: The island’s clubbing capital, Magaluf is famed for its all-night discos, celebrity DJs and boisterous atmosphere. The town’s bars, clubs and foam parties are typically found along the Strip, where late-night merrymakers spill out into the street to continue the revelry. Check out show-stopping performances at BCM Magaluf, or seek out drinks deals at Tito’s, Pacha or the open-air Carwash Disco.
• El Arenal and Playa de Palma: Linked together by a promenade, the resorts of El Arenal and Playa de Palma glitter at night with the hum of people chatting in beer gardens like Bierkonig and the thumping of music at nightclubs like Mega Park and Ballermann 6.
• Theatre trips: If you prefer toned-down evenings with a touch of culture, why not immerse yourself in the world of performing arts? Music, cinema, theatre and dance shows are all on the programme at Palma Auditorium and Teatre Principal de Palma.

Filled with fresh, local ingredients and made with plenty of love, Majorcan meals are as delicious as they are authentic. Here are a few of our must-tries:

• Pastries: Ensaimada, which dates back to the 17th century, are spiral-shaped treats dusted with icing sugar and eaten for breakfast, elevenses or as an afternoon snack.
• Spiced rice: While paella may be the most popular rice dish in Spain, arròs brut (or ‘dirty rice’) is Majorca’s pride and joy. This soupy dish is made with meat, vegetables and spices like paprika, saffron and nutmeg and is cooked in a large pot or paella pan.
• Fine wine: Majorca’s balmy climes are perfect for grape growing, so it’s no surprise that there are over 70 vineyards around the island you can visit to taste local varieties. Bodega Ribas is one of the oldest dating back to 1711, while Bodega Macia Batle is one of the most popular – both specialising in red, white and rosés.
• Sweet treats: Craving an after-dinner treat? Order coca de cuarto – a fluffy cake made with eggs, potato starch and sugar, and served with a helping of almond ice cream.
• Lechona asada: One of Majorca’s most popular sharing dishes is Lechona asada – roast suckling pig marinated in olive oil, garlic, herbs and spices, and served with roast potatoes and veg.

From award-winning hotspots to local hidden gems and bustling cafés, excellent eateries are in abundance on Majorca holidays.

• Tapas bars: Tucking into petite plates is a Spanish pastime, and tapas bars rule the roost in Majorca. OMBU is a beloved institution offering gourmet tapas with an Asian twist, while Tapas Y Punto in Port de Pollenca whips up diddy favourites like serrano ham croquettes and mini burgers in a modern style. If rustic, tavern vibes are more your thing, head to Taberna de la Boveda in Palma’s historic quarter, where wine barrels act as tables and live music performances are served alongside hearty tapas.
• Gourmet dining: High-quality, memorable meals aren’t hard to come by at Bens d’Avill, an enchanting spot overlooking the northern coast. Michelin-starred Aromata boasts a quintessential courtyard setting and native classics, while AmazO in Puerto Pollensa has a menu featuring South American-inspired creations.
• Hotel haunts: You don’t have to step out of your hotel to find delicious dining in Majorca. Arrels by Marga Coll at the Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá is known for its Mallorcan recipes plated on tile boards, NENI at Bikini Island and Mountain Hotel wins hearts and stomachs for its blend of Israeli, Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisines, and El Vicenc at the 5-star Hotel El Vicenc serves impeccable food from both tasting and à la carte menus.
• Local delights: A haven for fish lovers, Ca’s Patro March – up on the rocks of Cala Deia – is firmly on the map thanks to its appearance in the BBC drama, The Night Manager. There are often queues for a table, so you know it’s going to be good. Etic is another low-key spot and the island’s first fully organic restaurant, cooking with zero-kilometre produce.
• Market fresh: If you’re looking to keep your budget to a minimum, you can always pick up fresh, local foods at one of Palma’s colourful bazaars to cook back at your self catering stay. Mercat de l’Olivar is the main market, brimming with bucketloads of olives, cheese, charcuterie and succulent seafood to name a few.

Laid-back and diverse, this Balearic isle offers experiences for all ages, from family-friendly beaches and all-out adventures to all inclusive holidays that exceed expectations.

• Slip n’ slide: Majorca waterpark holidays are a favourite among families, particularly when there are a good handful of aqua parks to pick from. Hidropark in Alcudia is home to a wave pool, splash pool and heaps of slides and animal-themed cutes. Aqualand in El Arenal is another popular waterpark, as is Western Water Park in Magaluf.
• Palma Aquarium: Home to over 700 marine species (and 8,000 creatures in total), Palma Aquarium is the perfect place to visit to escape the height of the summer sun. Peek into The Big Blue – one of the deepest shark tanks in Europe, housing sharks, rays, turtles, tropical fish and more – dive with rays and let loose in the pirate ship playground.
• La Reserva Galatzo: Need to burn off excess energy? This nature reserve deep in the Tramuntana has enough swinging bridges, ziplines and rock climbing adventures to wear the kids out. You’ll also find birds of prey displays, caves, waterfalls and walking trails, and even animals, including ostriches, emus, donkeys and 3 brown bears.
• Day trips by boat: Hitch a ride to Dragonera, an uninhabited dragon-shaped island off the coast of Majorca, to seek out the Balearic lizard, go snorkelling in its aquamarine waters or walk in the footsteps of pirates. Cabrera Island is another must-visit isle, thanks to its white-sand beaches, rare bird-spotting opportunities and thriving marine life.
• All inclusive hotels: With on-site kids’ clubs, varied food choices, all-singing, all-dancing swimming pools and family rooms of all shapes and sizes, Majorca’s all inclusive resorts are a hit with all members of the gang. And once you’re settled, we won’t blame you for not wanting to leave.

With adults only retreats, golden sands galore and relaxing experiences on tap, sun-seeking lovers are in their element on holidays in Majorca.

• Boat trips: From sunset sightseeing cruises to full-day excursions exploring the seas and neighbouring islands, boat trips from Majorca are a must. Many include lunch on board, as well as snorkelling sessions and close-ups of caves. If you’d prefer to have the deck to yourself, you can also organise private charters.
• Cala d’Or outings: The picturesque town of Cala d’Or on the southeast coast is known for its romantic coves, upscale restaurants and stylish boutiques. Stroll along the marina or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
• Spa experiences: Rejuvenate in one of the island’s hotel spas by unwinding in luxurious hot tubs, hammams and saunas, or up the ante by treating yourself to couples treatments. Adult only Barcelo Illetas Albatros is famed for its U-Wellness centre complete with thermal circuit and 5-star therapies.
• Ecovinyassa: Promenade through this peaceful orange and lemon orchard in the Soller Valley, between Fornalutx and Biniaraix, before sipping on a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice made possible from the area’s unique microclimate.
• Horse riding in the mountains: Get out and about with the help of a 4-legged friend. Guided tours with Ranxo Ses Roques take you on gentle rides through Alcudia’s forests and mountains. You can also customise your ride with wine and cheese tasting or private brunches.