Majorca is a picturesque island with numerous areas of gorgeous pure magnificence. Though it’s massively in style as a British vacation vacation spot, you can keep away from the concrete high-rise accommodations which have blighted its extra in style resorts should you look exhausting sufficient!
From fairly rustic villages to Caribbean-like seashores, listed here are my favorite, extra under-the-radar spots for a vacation…
1. Puerto Pollensa
The northern resort city of Port Pollenca has attracted holidaymakers for many years. Nevertheless, in contrast to among the different cities in Majorca, I personally assume Port Pollenca has accomplished an incredible job of sustaining a sense of authenticity!
I really like that the prohibitive constructing laws have allowed the city to retain its historic buildings and keep away from being inundated with vacationer traps!Â
This place is a good alternative for its lengthy sandy seashores and the wonderful cafes and eating places. Like many different Majorcan cities, Port Pollenca was as soon as a fishing village, but it surely’s remained true to its roots, with many fishing boats nonetheless utilizing the port to dump their catch.
The port sits in a big horseshoe-shaped bay, which offers glorious sea views towards the backdrop of the close by Serra de Tramuntana mountain vary. A number of seashores shall be explored, together with the tranquil Pine Stroll promenade and barely busier Port de Pollenca Seaside.
My favorite highlights…
Strolling alongside the magical pine stroll within the night and seeing the picturesque sundown.
Taking a visit to the Sunday market within the outdated city and discovering native treasures at over 300 stalls.
Occurring a hike to the Insta-worthy secluded Cala Boquer seaside surrounded by limestone cliffs and glistening waters.
My resort alternative for Port Pollenca – Hoposa Pollentia
E-book A Journey!
We will ebook your journey hopping round Majorca’s unspoilt locations by way of our free top-rated journey planning service!
2. Deia
This well-renowned picturesque village within the North West of Mallorca is house to among the island’s wealthiest residents and has attracted guests for tons of of years.
Artwork, music, and literature characteristic prominently, with the poet Robert Graves settling right here within the Thirties and Virgin boss Richard Branson proudly owning a luxurious resort simply outdoors the city.
Head right down to the tiny seaside of Cala Deia for sunbathing earlier than grabbing a drink in Sa Fonda – a neighborhood bar the place you may spot well-known musicians jamming the evening away.
I got here right here for tranquillity and to flee the hassles and tempo of contemporary life. If you wish to keep, there are just a few stunning boutique accommodations within the village.
My favorite highlights…
Exploring Son Marroig and seeing gorgeous views throughout the horizon.
Eating on the stylish Sebastian Restaurant, I extremely suggest the lemon risotto!Â
Partying the evening away on the energetic Sa Fonda bar situated alongside the primary road.
My resort alternative for Deia – Es Moli
To ebook, examine costs or availability forEs Moli
3. Sóller
Whereas most social gathering resorts are close to Palma on the island’s Southside, the rugged North West is the place to go for a little bit of peace.
I extremely suggest making an attempt Soller, a big coastal city usually missed in favour of its extra showy neighbours. Set in a inexperienced valley surrounded by orange groves, mountains, and a transparent blue sea, Soller enjoys a fascinating place on the island.
The handful of boutique accommodations (attempt Lodge L’Avenida or Ca’l Bisbe), newly renovated harbour, and stylish promenade lined with stylish cafes additionally guarantee it attracts a extra discerning crowd.
My favorite highlights…
Wandering across the stunning city and admiring the spectacular structure characterised by Joan Rubid.
Having fun with the scrumptious style of native oranges and citrus fruits on a visit to Ecovinyassa farm.
Taking a romantic journey on the scenic outdated picket prepare and seeing gorgeous landscapes.
My resort alternative for Sóller – Bikini Island & Mountain
4. Portocolom
Identified for its literary and musical residents, Portocolom has retained a lot of its unique attraction and resisted the commercialisation that has unfold to different components of the island.
A reasonably fishing village, Portocolom was as soon as a thriving port however is now a quiet vacationer retreat with just a few giant accommodations and a sandy beachfront.
There’s lots to see and do, with native vineyards open to tastings, scuba diving faculties for the extra adventurous, and the traditional burial web site of Naveta inside simple attain.
It’s excellent for holidaymakers eager to chill out and see the quieter aspect of Mallorca. The biggest and best sandy seaside right here is Cala Marcal, within the southern a part of city.Â
My favorite highlights…
Experiencing a crusing lesson with Escola Nà utica s’Algar faculty on the turquoise waters.
Mountaineering to the height of Puig Sant Salvador for breathtaking views overlooking the city and throughout the ocean.
Visiting the spectacular prehistoric burial web site, Naveta, relationship again to 2,000 BC.
My resort alternative for Portocolom – Portomar Residences
5. Cala Varques
If you’re spending time on the jap coast of Majorca, Cala Varques is a must-visit location. It’s a secluded, pristine seaside situated between the resort cities of Portocolom and Porto Cristo. Cala Varques is a cove seaside with a rocky shore and crystal clear water.
Though locals largely frequent it, it attracts few vacationers who spend their time exploring the foreshore and swimming.
It is likely one of the favorite seashores amongst nature lovers as the realm is full of a wide selection of wildlife. There are not any everlasting outlets or eating places, which makes it ideally suited for guests on the lookout for unspoilt places.
In summer season, distributors typically promote meals and drinks, however you need to convey your provides when visiting the realm. To succeed in Cala Varques, drive down a gravel highway after which hike for about quarter-hour by way of a wooded space.
Alternatively, you would rent a ship for the day and dock it within the cove. The most well-liked actions right here embrace snorkelling, swimming, and mountaineering.
My favorite highlights…
Going snorkelling within the crystal-clear ocean and discovering faculties of fairly fish.
Spending a day sunbathing alongside the golden sand.
Taking a guided tour across the spectacular caves.
6. Cala Figuera
Positioned within the south-east of Majorca is the gorgeous village of Cala Figuera. It’s a small city that I feel has absolutely retained the environment of a conventional fishing port.
I might counsel admiring the quaint cottages dotted alongside the rocky outcrops earlier than visiting a neighborhood restaurant or strolling on the foreshore.
A number of winding paths lead from the tiny harbour to the cliffs, that are price exploring. These paths result in varied thrilling places, together with lookouts providing spectacular views and secluded coves. Though the closest seaside is 4km away, there are many alternatives for swimming and a diving faculty within the city.
Regardless of Cala Figuera having a resort really feel (only a very relaxed one!), it nonetheless operates as a fishing village. You’ll be able to pattern the native seafood by buying on the native markets or visiting one of many many high-quality seafood eating places.
There are a handful of accommodations in Cala Figuera, however there are additionally just a few gorgeous villas within the resort city, and I feel these are the most effective choices if you wish to keep there.
My favorite highlights…
Strolling down the scenic harbour and admiring the marina views and fairly stone terraces and white-washed homes.
Embarking upon a ship tour to discover the rugged coast on a basic yacht or luxurious powerboat.
Mountaineering to the Torre d’en Beu lighthouse for a powerful viewpoint on the island.
7. Valldemossa
As soon as named by Chopin probably the most stunning place on this planet, this small nook of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains is now house to one of many prettiest villages on the island.
Positioned 17 km from Palma, the normal stone village has developed over time right into a small, romantic and picturesque resort city surrounded by forested hills and lovely countryside, making it a beautiful vacation spot for out of doors lovers.
Right here, you’ll additionally discover the thirteenth monastery the place the composer Chopin as soon as lived throughout the winter of 1838 to 1839.
The village is house to some charming and exquisite accommodations, making it a superb different to the high-rise resorts on the coast!Â
My favorite highlights…
Visiting the Royal Charterhouse which is full of a wealthy historical past of Mallorca.
Having fun with a stroll by way of the cobbled paths surrounded by cypress timber and rose bushes on the gardens of King Juan Carlos.
Exploring the gorgeous Sa Marina port.Â
My resort alternative for Valldemossa – Lodge Valldemossa
8. Port d’Andratx
For a style of genuine Mallorca, I might counsel heading to Andratx, a beautiful historic conventional city with outdated townhouses, cobbled streets, and exquisite sea views.
As soon as a former fishing village, mass growth has managed to flee Puerto de Andratx, I feel, as a result of space not having its seaside. Nevertheless, don’t let that put you off—it’s nonetheless stunning!
Right here, you’ll be able to anticipate low-key bars and eating places, a glistening harbour full of gently bobbing boats and a way more cosmopolitan and unique, well-heeled crowd!Â
For instance, it’s very talked-about with the yachting group and movie stars whose attractive villas may be seen climbing up the hillsides.
My favorite highlights…
Testing the fashionable and quirky outlets all through the city full of designer garments, stunning jewelry and enjoyable souvenirs.
Enjoying a spherical of golf on the incredible 18-hole course of Golf de Andratx.
Chartering a yacht and skipper for the day and exploring the southwest shoreline.
9. Estellencs
The small village of Estellencs is located on the shoreline of the Tramuntana mountains, removed from Majorca’s vacationer hotspots.
The drive into the village is thrilling, with hairpin turns and spectacular views of the encircling space. Nevertheless, when you arrive at Estellences, you’ll instantly really feel a way of serenity, as it’s a quiet location with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The village comprises many timeworn buildings constructed over the previous centuries. Highlights embrace the Sixteenth-century Tem Alemany Tower and the Seventeenth-century Saint Juan Baptista parish church.
The previous laundry sq., which dates again to Arab rule, I feel can also be a must-see, as is strolling the cobbled streets and marvelling on the unimaginable structure.Â
My favorite highlights…
Exploring the country, charming and Instagrammable streets situated alongside a rocky shoreline.
Exploring one in every of the distinctive mountaineering trails surrounding the city.
Taking a dip within the peaceable waters of Cala Estellencs seaside.
10. Pollenca
Within the northern a part of Majorca lies the historic city of Pollenca. It’s a stunning village turned discerning resort with unimaginable stone structure and dozens of fascinating historic websites to discover.
The winding cobbled streets all through Pollenca are lined with nice eating places, cafes, and bars that showcase high-quality meals from native producers. Many historic places are close by, together with the 365 Calvari Steps, Formentor Lighthouse, Puil de Pollenca, and Placa Main.
Pollenca can also be house to a few of Majorca’s most proficient writers, musicians, and artists. Right here, you’ll be able to see fantastic artwork, uncover some nice literature, and attend concert events by unimaginable musicians.
Though the city receives its justifiable share of vacationers, it doesn’t really feel prefer it has surrendered to tourism. I personally assume it stays an genuine location that showcases the island’s wealthy tradition and historical past!Â
My favorite highlights…
Climbing up the 365 Calvari Steps resulting in the city’s prime and the charming Church of Nostra Senyora dels Angels.
Stepping by way of the well-known, small however fairly Joan March Gardens and uncover the medieval Gothic tower landmark.
Strolling throughout the Roman Bridge which has an unknown previous and was solely first spoken of in 1403 historic sources.
Banyalbufar is a small coastal village located on the western shoreline of Majorca. It’s one in every of a handful of unspoilt villages left on the island, and right here you’ll be able to see how Majorcans have lived for tons of of years!Â
Spectacular terraced hillsides encompass the village, with dozens of properties constructed within the conventional architectural model.
Mixed with the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean, Banyalbufar has a postcard-worthy look. A number of mountaineering trails result in the tops of the encircling hillsides.
The village has just a few small accommodations, cafes, and bars. I personally assume this provides to the village’s authenticity, and also you by no means really feel like you might be in a location solely designed to satisfy the preferences of vacationers.
The traditional blonde stone buildings within the village really feel like stepping again in time, and I counsel visiting superb historic websites such because the Torre del Verger watchtower.
Though Banyalbufar doesn’t have sandy seashores, a number of pebbled seashores and tranquil coves are excellent for swimming or sunbathing.
My favorite highlights…
Tasting the native Malvasia grape at Celler Ca’n Pico, some of the unique wineries in Majorca.
Visiting the historic Tower of Ses Ànimes, relationship again to the Seventeenth century, for stunning panoramic views.
Strolling to the paranormal waterfall in Cala Banalbafur to discover the coves.
12. Fornalutx
Nestled between two mountains excessive above the city of Soller is Fornalutx, which calls itself the prettiest village in Spain!Â
Providing a style of conventional Mallorcan life, I’m all the time charmed by this peaceable place, house to saffron-coloured cottages and lovely stone-cobbled streets surrounded by lush orange groves and exquisite mountain views.
I personally assume it makes a superb rustic different to all of the high-rise coastal resorts on this island, because it’s house to some charming and way more genuine lodging choices.Â
My favorite highlights…
Having fun with a espresso and people-watching on Plaza de España Sq..
Admiring the distinctive structure of the city corridor which includes a important defence tower.
Biking the well-known GR221 long-distance route.
13. Ariany
Ariany is likely one of the prettiest cities in Majorca, and I feel this makes an important addition to this record! Its conventional structure, cobbled streets, and tranquil environment make it an unspoilt haven. Centrally situated within the island’s northern half, it’s a rural city with agricultural roots.
The numerous windmills, quaint farmhouses, and barns displayed close to the village replicate this historical past.
The city has a protracted historical past and has some unimaginable historic websites. My highlights embrace the parish church (inbuilt 1570), De la Crew viewpoint (gorgeous views of Puig de Bonany and Puig de Randa), and the Creus de Termino o Termino crosses. There are additionally a number of mountaineering trails surrounding the village.
The city’s small dimension has meant that tour information operators hardly ever go to it. You’re a lot much less more likely to encounter different vacationers and have a singular alternative to expertise life within the island’s regional areas.
My favorite highlights…
Strolling across the vibrant weekly market held within the Plaza Mayor sq., full of stalls promoting native produce, clothes and extra.
Taking a visit to the romantic Mirador de sa Creu viewpoint surrounded by gorgeous rose beds.
Discovering the normal windmills, these iconic landmarks are unfold all through the realm.
14. Es Trenc
Mallorca is full of stunning seashores, however discovering an undeveloped one isn’t simple. The lengthy pure seaside of Es Trenc isn’t hooked up to any resort, so it has a extra pure, unspoiled really feel.
With its broad stretch of sand and blue waters, it’s usually known as Mallorca’s reply to the Caribbean. Es Trenc’s barely remoted place and guarded standing as an unofficial nudist seaside have ensured its place off the tourist-the-tourist radar. Nevertheless, everybody remains to be welcome, clothed or not!Â
My favorite highlights…
Spending the afternoon constructing sandcastles within the vibrant white sand.
Grabbing some meals from Flor de Sal Es Trenc cafe and buying a few of their well-known salt.
15. Caimari
Caimari is a tranquil and picturesque inland village within the north of the island. Historically a farming city, Caimari is understood for producing glorious olive oil.
Dozens of transformed farmhouses in Caimari are actually functioning as nation accommodations. The homeowners have fastidiously restored these buildings to replicate the unique architectural model of properties within the space.
This permits guests to spend time in genuine properties and perceive what life is like for everlasting residents. Most vacationers go to Caimari to chill out and discover the native space. Nevertheless, many actions can be found, together with mountaineering, biking, and golf.
The city has a number of glorious eating places and alternatives to be taught extra in regards to the space’s historical past. When you go to in February, you’ll see almond blossoms in stunning shades of white, pink, and vanilla.
My favorite highlights…
Strolling as much as the well-known chapel of Lluc through the outdated pilgrim path while exploring the encircling nature.
Appreciating among the best marjades on the island which assist to develop the olive, almond and carob timber.
Visiting the gorgeous and vibrant outdated church which is worthy of an Instagrammable shot.
16. Cala Tuent
There are dozens of spectacular seashores on the island, however I personally assume few supply the identical expertise as Cala Tuent. It’s a secluded sand combined with pebbles seaside and nature reserve situated within the north-west of Majorca. Cala Tuent is reached through a slim highway that traverses the Tramuntana mountain vary.
The drive is kind of satisfying, with some incredible views throughout the journey. Once you arrive at Cala Tuent, the gorgeous pure panorama will impress you. The luxurious greenery and glowing Mediterranean sea make for an idyllic setting.
Cala Tuent’s location means it receives far fewer vacationers than different seashores within the area. It’s the excellent vacation spot for vacationers who wish to get pleasure from a soothing day by the ocean or discover among the island’s greatest mountaineering trails.
My favorite highlights…
Taking a picnic and spend the day stress-free throughout the 100-metre stretch of tranquil seaside.
Going snorkelling within the crystal-clear and calm waters alongside the bay.
Mountaineering by way of the Sa Costara path, which took me to Soller.Â
17. Cabrera Island
For my part, among the finest methods to keep away from the hordes of vacationers visiting the island is by travelling south to Cabrera Island. It’s an uninhabited island about 50 kilometres south of Palma de Mallorca.
Cabrera Island’s panorama has remained just about unchanged for a lot of centuries. Due to its conservation standing, which signifies that no further buildings may be constructed, it would stay that manner. The island consists of jagged rocky outcrops and exquisite cove seashores.
Right here, you’ll be able to get pleasure from an awfully various vary of wildlife, together with dolphins, ospreys, and falcons!Â
My favorite highlights…
Embarking on an tour to see the Blue Cave and swim in its vibrant, sapphire-colored waters.
Taking a guided tour to one of many many fascinating factors throughout the island, such because the Cabrera Fortress, Serra de Ses Figueres and La Miranda.
Discovering the right spot to observe a marvellous sundown over the island.
18. Campanet
Campanet is one other small city inside driving distance of Palma. The city receives only a few vacationers annually, which I feel has helped it retain a sense of authenticity.
Campanet is a good location for procuring, with weekly markets (each Tuesday) and a wide range of small companies down the primary strip. You can even go to eating places, cafes, and bars which supply glorious native delicacies.
Nevertheless, Campanet’s main attraction is the gorgeous pure atmosphere surrounding the village. It’s situated within the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, a visually gorgeous space with loads of mountaineering trails to discover.
My favorite highlights…
Exploring the chambers and passageways of the Coves de Campanet and discovering magnificent stalagmites and stalactites.
Wandering round magnificent stalagmites and stalactites at some of the uncommon nature parks in Mallorca, Ses Font Ufanes.
Enjoyable in Placa Main Sq..
19. Santa Maria del Cami
This peaceable rural market city can also be an inventive hub on the Palma-Ina railway. A lot of Mallorca’s potters work shut by, and the town is the centre of manufacture for ‘Roba de llengues’—cotton woven into vibrant zigzag patterns and utilized in curtains, bedspreads, and fabric.
I counsel visiting to purchase regionally produced arts and crafts, attempt a wine tour, or chill out within the peaceable countryside environment.
My favorite highlights…
Visitng the vineyard Bodegas Macià Batle.
Attending to know in regards to the fascinating historical past and tradition of the city by strolling by way of the streets.
Viewing an exhibit on the Ca’s Apotekari full of native heritage.
20. Mondrago Nationwide Park
I counsel heading southeast for one of many island’s most unspoiled, naturally stunning areas. Mondrago Nationwide Park is a distant, peaceable place well-known for its wonderful white sandy seashores, good turquoise sea, rugged cliffs, and darkish inexperienced pine timber.
One of many two stunning seashores was as soon as named the most effective seaside in Europe, and though it hasn’t escaped tourism, its protected standing ensures it stays completely preserved!Â
My favorite highlights…
Taking a dip within the idyllic, turquoise waters alongside the south-east coast.
Mountaineering alongside Volto a sa Guardia d’en Garrot to wander by way of the gorgeous panorama.