Towns & Villages in Illetes — 3 of Our Favourites

Back in its heyday, Cala Major was one of the first holiday resorts in Mallorca, these days it is mostly a residential suburb of Palma. But if you want to holiday here there is a sheltered sandy beach, which has blue flag status, and idyllic turquoise shallow waters. The Spanish royal family choose to spend their summers here at ‘Marivent Palace’ their summer residence, where guests have included the UK's King Charles.

The area has a couple of nice hotels, and has undergone some revamp in recent years. The 80's style apartments might not be appealing from the outside but they are being renovated to first class standards and offer impeccable sea views, which means the area is becoming quite a hot spot for property buyers on the island. 

Cala Nova marina is the neighbourhood's port which has also received a bit of a facelift. It may be smaller than many of the other ports on the western coastline but appeals to its patrons for its charming fishing port vibe, range of watersports and sailing activities.

From Cala Major, it’s a 10-minute taxi ride into the centre of Palma. The area is also well connected by buses which is a bonus for those keen to sample the city and all it has to offer. Its close proximity to the city means it has become a popular dwelling for international residents, which has led to some good international schools appearing here.

Portals Nous is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, marina and convenient location near both Puerto Portals and Palma. 

The town grew from modest beginnings in the 1930s, with a surge of tourism development in the late 20th century shaping its modern look. Carretera Andratx forms the town’s heart, lined with restaurants, cafés, bars, beauty salons and shops, while nearby apartments, villas and hotels provide a range of places to stay. 

The surrounding hills attract affluent international residents, particularly from Britain, Germany and Sweden, with exclusive villas offering stunning views over the sea and Palma. Bendinat to the east features impressive apartment complexes, and the hillside settlement of Costa d’en Blanes rises above the town, offering scenic walking routes and a glimpse of luxury living. Even a short stroll through these areas gives a taste of the town’s relaxed yet cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Originally developed in the mid-20th century, Illetas has kept its charm over the decades. With three beautiful beaches nearby and easy access to Palma’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife, it’s the perfect base if you want the best of both worlds; a calm coastal escape with the capital just down the road.

Things stay quiet in winter, but from Easter through October, Illetas comes alive. You’ll find a mix of British, German, and Swedish families with holiday homes here. On the far western edge, an exclusive holiday resort village known as ‘The Anchorage’, which is the most sought-after address in the area.