Top day trips in Mallorca 2017

A traditional country manor situated in the sleepy plains of central Mallorca, Els Calderers de Sant Joan House and Gardens gives you a taste of life on a noble estate some 250 years ago. Lush creepers climb up the sandstone facade of the main building and wrought iron torch holders stand dormant at each side of the arched entrance guarded by stone lions. Inside, time has stood still. Libraries, hunting rooms, bedrooms and servant quarters are open for viewing, each room packed with the furniture and trinkets from the past. The manor even has its own peaceful chapel where mass would have been held every morning. 

In the wine cellar, you can help yourself to a glass of Moscatel from an old barrel and savour the delicious sweet wine while you try to decipher the writing on century old export papers displayed on the walls. Els Calderers is open from 10:00 to 18:00 and if you go early you might find you have the house to yourself.  For €9 it's great value and well worth a visit.

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Arriving at the Coves del Drach (Dragon Caves), you could be forgiven for thinking you've landed at a theme park. Situated on the east coast, a stone's throw from Porto Cristo, it receives thousands of visitors each day. Don't be put off though as these caves are awe inspiring and, after the initial queuing, the crowds thin out and there is plenty of space to view the impressive formations inside. 

There are a number of caves on the island but the underground lakes make Coves del Drach particularly special. The cave is huge and, as the path winds through it, you'll be met with an ever changing alien-like landscape which wouldn't be out of place in an Indiana Jones film. The €15 entrance fee includes a concert in the heart of the cave. In a huge natural 'concert hall', you'll be able to listen to classical music played by musicians being driven in illuminated boats along the peaceful lake, a truly special experience.  

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For those seeking the spiritual centre of the island, Lluc Sanctuary was the first of its kind established in Mallorca. Dating back to the 13th century, it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The medieval statue of the Virgin can be found in a small chapel behind the church. She is a made of sandstone and has blackened over time. She is said to symbolise the end of suffering for those Pilgrims who come to visit her.

The sanctuary museum showcases ancient remains discovered in the area and also contains the most complete ceramic collection on the island. You don't have to be religious to enjoy this place and the sanctuary acts as a hotel, welcoming guests looking for a peaceful experience in the mountains. I recommend heading up to the crucifix for terrific views over the island. The €5 entrance ticket also lets you visit five other spiritual destinations.

Also see: Churches & Cathedrals in Mallorca, Spain

A trip to a Mallorcan bodega (or winery) is a wonderful way of immersing yourself in the land and flavours of the island. Not only that, but many of the bodegas are beautiful, historic buildings. The main house at Bodegas Ribas dates back to 1776 and maintains the old features, such as the characteristic inner courtyard and stone kitchen. While the fincas at 21st-century Bodegas Angel might fool you as they have been built to look old, and the scenery could not be more beautiful. Situated only 20km north of Palma, the backdrop to the vines are the Tramuntana mountains and terracotta roofs of the neighbouring town. A tour of the bodega, with wine tasting and accompanying Mallorcan snacks costs €15. It’s the perfect place to pass the afternoon by.

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If you want to pack more into your day trip, a tour like Palma on a Bike might be more up your street. It involves a relaxed ride through the city, passing by the most prominent sites from La Seu Cathedral to the 300-year-old café where Joan Miró used to have churros and chocolate. A knowledgeable guide leads the exploration, providing interesting information and insight into the history and culture of the island. Palma is a very bike-friendly city and the tour is open to beginners and children. In 3.5 hours you will see and learn more than you might left to your own devices. You'll also get a real sense of the city as you ride down narrow streets, stop at the local farmer's market and end your tour with tapas in bustling Plaça Major.

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With each new trip, Mallorca reveals a little more of herself. So why not break your routine and experience something new on your next holiday to the island?

Read more from Emily.

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