DK Travel : Mallorca

Known variously as the “Golden Isle”, the “Wooded Isle” and the “Tranquil Isle”, Mallorca is all of these, despite its decades-long dependence on mass tourism. The island is laden with history and sights, from its castles and enchanted gardens to caves and spectacular mountains. The eastern and southern coasts still sport some of the cleanest, most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, and the city of Palma is more attractive, culturally alive and fun than ever.

Mallorca (or Majorca) gets its name from the ancient Roman name for the island, Balearis Major, meaning the “biggest Balearic”

Caves

Young adventurers will love the thrill of exploring Mallorca’s caves, especially the Coves d’Artà, which exit onto the open sea (seeCoves and Caves, Coves d’Artà). At the Coves del Drac, the pitch darkness at a certain moment will excite your children, though the very young might be frustrated at having to walk in silence for so long.
Ca’l Patró, Cala Sant Vicenç

Set above a beautiful cove, this terrace restaurant doesn’t have to do much to please. Shy away from the hot dogs and pizzas in favour of the local dishes.
Ca’n Antuna, Fornalutx

Tasty Mallorcan food, including rabbit, with stunning views from the terrace. The paella is also recommended.
Ca’n Joan de S’aigo

Since 1700, this popular rococo delight has been serving chocolate, orjata (almond milk), ice cream and pastries. Expect to wait a bit.
Ca’n Martina, Portopetro

Come for fresh fish and Mallorcan specialities including black paella, as well as kids’ standards such as hamburgers.
Ca’n Moragues, Artá

A small and exclusive hotel set in a refurbished 18th-century manor house in the heart of Artá. Every comfort has been seen to in the unique combination of antique and modern furnishings.
Ca’n Nadal, Andratx

Founded in 1872, this is a pastry shop offering such delights as mantecados (shortbread), cremadillo de cabello (sugar-coated mille feuille), pastel de chocolate (iced chocolate cake with walnuts) or tortaletta rechesol y frutos secos (moist tart topped with nuts). Also buy a bag of quelitas (tiny, egg-shaped crackers).
Ca’n Solleric and Passeig des Born

A fine Italianate edifice, Ca’n Solleric was built for a family of olive oil merchants in 1763 and converted into a modern art gallery in 1995. It stands at the top of the gracious Passeig des Born, which was created in the 19th century on a dried-up river-bed. This is Palma’s main promenade, similar to Barcelona’s famous Ramblas and the venue of large-scale cultural events. Set among its plane trees are flowerbeds and seats.
Ca’n Verdera, Fornalutx

Sophia Loren has stayed in this very chic and modern remodelling of a huge old house.
Ca’s Curial, Sóller

You get a lot of space and luxury for the price. There’s a rustic feel and antiques but also every modern amenity, all set in a fragrant orange grove just a few minutes from central Sóller. The views of the jagged, pine-covered mountains are stunning, as you sit around the pool on the shaded terrace.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €20
- €20–€30
- €30–€40
- €40–€50
- over €50
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €50
- €50–€100
- €100–€150
- €150–€200
- over €200