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”

Discoteca Altamar, Port de Sóller

A large, loud disco for teens and those in their early 20s. Special fiestas include foam parties and tropical nights.
Dragonera Island Tower

The ancient watchtower on one of Mallorca’s most picturesque island nature reserves may date as far back as Roman times. It may not be much to look at these days, but it’s fun just to hike around the unspoiled island and imagine what it must have been like during a raid, with corsairs storming the place and signal fires warning the rest of the island (see Illa Dragonera).
Drunken Duck, Port d’Alcúdia

A bit hidden away, this fun place provides a non-stop party for the whole family, with karaoke and games of outrageous charades.
Eden & Eden Park, Port de Sóller

Two properties on the same street near the beach. Both have large pools and garden terraces, but the Eden Park is a bit more lush. Rooms on the upper floors have views of the port and mountains. Very popular with families.
Egg-Based

Truita espanyol is a potato, egg and onion pie, served by the slice. Omelettes, possibly with prawns, are also common.
El Bosque

At the northern end of S’Arenal, “The Woods” also attracts gay revellers.
El Campo, between Alquería Blanca and Portopetro

The tantalizing aromas are the first things you’ll notice, then the infectious Spanish music. Regional dishes include roasted peppers, grilled meat, fish and rice soup and barbecued rabbit.
El Corte Inglés, Palma

Palma has two branches of Spain’s only true department store, the quality and prices of which are firmly upmarket.
El Foro de Mallorca, Carretera Palma-Alcúdia

The delicious Mallorcan food makes up for its touristy image. The 1-kg (2-lb) lamb chop feeds four and comes with salad, red wine, lemonade and bread.
El Guia, Sóller

Modest old building with a thick atmosphere of yesteryear. A dining room hung with crystal chandeliers forms a wing of the ground floor. Rooms are basic, though.

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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