Welcome to Mallorca (Majorca)
Imagine an island with turquoise-blue waters, secret coves, soft golden sands, lush green foliage, rugged mountains, picturesque villages and a vibrant capital city. And drop that island in the sea only a couple of hours flight from most European cities. Interested? Read on...
Mallorca (Majorca) and its capital Palma de Mallorca are overflowing with character, although, like us you'll most probably want to come for the sunshine, beaches, and half-decent G&Ts... Generously furnished with luxury hotels and villas, Mallorca is one of the world's sailing hotspots; locally produced foodie delights and wines, and first-class restaurants with Michelin-stars, have only added to its appeal with the rich and famous.
But that's not all... An island steeped in history, Mallorca boasts charming villages, historic sights, an artisan and cultural scene, and popular events taking place throughout the year. If relaxing is your thing, grab a sunlounger at a beachclub or a take a boat trip; or stroll through the old streets in Palma for some leisurely shopping. Just don't expect to relax for too long, with theme parks for the whole family to enjoy, watersports, thousands of things to do, plus all the serious walking and cycling which you could care to do on holiday. And if you've not overdone the daytime, there's always the bustling nightlife to finish you off. As we like to say so often, Mallorca genuinely has got something for everyone...
Is it Mallorca or Majorca?
It's only the British, their historical colonies, and the Irish who use the word 'Majorca'. To everyone else, it is Mallorca. 'Mallorca' comes from the Latin for 'larger island' ('insula maior'). This is in reference to its smaller neighbour, Menorca, 'insula minor'. As you see, no 'j' is mentioned, and this is because the letter 'j' didn't exist in Latin until around the 13th century when it was introduced to take the place of 'i' when used as a consonant (as in 'maior'). So it's less "which is it", it's both, or whatever, you're on holiday!
History & Culture in Mallorca
The island has been inhabited by humans since 7000 BC. The Phoenicians, seafaring people from the Levant, were the first to colonise the island in around the 8th century BC. The island was occupied by Romans in 123 BC and flourished with the cultivation of olives, grapes (winemaking) and salt mining. From the 700s, the island's culture and architecture have been influenced by Muslim, Corsair, and Spanish, friends and foes; with more and more visitors coming from England, Germany, Sweden and Italy in more recent years.
Also see: History of Mallorca, Majorca
Sights & Attractions in Mallorca
A rich cultural history has left many remarkable sights to explore in Mallorca. Castles and ruins, cathedrals and monasteries, grand manor houses and gardens, along with a host of art galleries and museums are here for you to visit.
The island's capital city, Palma, is the place to marvel at impressive architecture from medieval times through to Modernist creations. Palma is also home to the most varied nightlife, with top quality restaurants and a host of late night bars and clubs.
Also see: Attractions in Mallorca, Majorca
Beaches in Mallorca
With over 500km of coastline, there are more than 200 beaches to choose from on Mallorca. Some of the larger ones are backed by holiday resorts and have great facilities, from shops and cafes to sunloungers and watersports. Equally, there are vast stretches of beach, particularly in the south, where virgin calas with Caribbean-esque seas await you. The east coast is filled with little sandy coves, ideal for sailing and snorkelling, while the west coast has a mixture of beaches and dramatic cliffs with stunning scenery. For fresh food, drinks and vibes, Mallorca also has it's share of cool and hip beachclubs to while the day away.
Also see: Beaches in Mallorca, Majorca
Events in Mallorca
Being a Spanish island, Mallorca hosts many fiestas and festivals throughout the year. From agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, to live music and DJ concerts in the summer, religious festivals and international sporting events, there is always plenty going on.
Also see: Main Events in Mallorca, Majorca
Things to Do in Mallorca
The stunning scenery throughout Mallorca is ideal for enjoying outdoor pursuits. You can find protected Natural Parks in all four corners of Mallorca, as well as the rugged and beautiful Tramuntana mountains that run down the west coast. Walking and hiking are popular activities with a wide variety of well-maintained paths and clear signage suitable for all abilities. Cycling is massive in Mallorca, the island is a well-established destination for the professional road cycling teams during the off season and there are plenty of routes to choose from. The warm and dry climate is also perfect for golfers and there are around 20 golf courses to be enjoyed around the island.
For those with families, you can expect some great waterparks, adventure parks and petting farms. The resorts are particularly well equipped for the little ones. Remember to check for local festivals that the kids can get involved with.
Also see: Sports & Activities in Mallorca, Majorca
Yachts & Sailing in Mallorca
Yachts and sailing are a big thing in Mallorca. The island boasts many international sailing regattas each year and embodies numerous world class marinas and yacht charter companies all around the coast. Whether you are interested in a boat trip, hiring a boat, or a week’s yacht charter, you will find the island more than equipped for your individual needs.
Also see: Chartering Yachts in Mallorca, Majorca
Dining in Mallorca
Mallorca has experienced a food revolution in the past 10 years. Many young Mallorcan chefs have come home after working in high-end international restaurants and have opened up their own places where they create fabulous modern Mediterranean dishes. There are nearly a dozen or so Michelin-starred restaurants featuring inventive cuisine in beautiful yet relaxed settings. Tapas are also a very popular option, and Palma is the place to head to experience a fresh, modern take on these small plates. And don't forget to try the local Mallorcan wine, there are some really excellent vineyards on the island.
Also see: Where to Eat in Mallorca, Majorca
Nightlife in Mallorca
In the summer months, Mallorca comes to life with bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning. You will find there are late-night bars with DJs in most towns and resorts while, for a quiet drink, the exclusive cocktail bars and wine bars in the ports should be explored. To start the evening off early from the comfort of a sunbed and a cocktail in hand, then Mallorca’s luxury beach clubs are the place to be. For the night owls out there who like to end their evening (or morning) at 05:00, the Paseo de Maritimo in Palma offers up the major nightclubs.
In the winter months, whilst the resorts and large clubs tend to shut down, the city of Palma continues to burst with life. This cosmopolitan city offers something for everyone with plenty of bars to visit, from a quiet night with a cocktail or gin and tonic to a crazy night out on the town with friends. You see there is much more to Mallorca’s nightlife scene than the mischievous town of Magaluf!
Also see: Nightlife in Mallorca, Majorca
Where to Stay in Mallorca
Mallorca is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean and one of the most diverse. For a relaxing beach holiday with your family, a Palma city break with your significant other, an outdoor adventure with friends, or a mixture of all three and more, Mallorca has it covered. The choice of accommodation is equally varied from luxury hotels to rural fincas, to modern villas and apartments. Whichever you choose, there are quality options whatever your budget. Luckily, wherever you choose, there rest of the island is easily(ish) accessible within an hour's drive or so.
Also see: Where to Stay in Mallorca, Majorca
How to get to Mallorca
Mallorca is one of the Balearic Islands in the western Mediterranean, off the east coast of Spain. Its location means it is no more than a three-hour flight from northern Europe, making it easily accessible for those in search of a little piece of paradise. The easiest and quickest way to get to Mallorca is to fly. Palma de Mallorca Airport is located in the south of the island and airlines fly from all over Europe throughout the year. You can also take a ferry (passenger or car ferry) from the Spanish mainland (Barcelona, Valencia and Denia) which will take around 7-8 hours.
Also see: How to Get to Mallorca, Majorca
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Welcome to Mallorca (Majorca)