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”-
Built in the mid-1200s in Gothic style, the church was completely remodelled in the 19th century and contains one of the most bombastic altarpieces of them all (see also Església de Santa Eulalia, Palma).
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Built just after the Christians reclaimed the Balearics in the 13th century, this church has a rare Gothic homogeneity, despite some later medieval touches and 19th-century additions.
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Tiny, picturesque mountain town with some restaurants and shops. There’s also a rudimentary seaside area around a shingly beach, where the snorkelling is good.
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Though it is a pretty terraced town in a magnificent mountain setting, its old houses of grey-brown stone – left unplastered and unadorned – were essentially built for defence. Even the 15th-century church belfry was used as a place of refuge, as were most towers on the island.
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The town is at the centre of a wine-producing area and also known for its floral-decorated pottery and its capers, or “green pearls”, which you can buy at the Sunday market.
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Port de Sóller is the venue for a mock battle between Christians and Moors, in commemoration of a skirmish in which Arabic corsairs were routed in 1561. Expect lots of rowdy, boozy fun, brandishing of swords and the firing of antique guns.
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St James is celebrated with the usual summer highjinks, including folk dancing, fireworks and parades, featuring an icon of the saint and various religious symbols.
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Palma has many handicraft shops: this is about the best, with well-chosen pottery, glass and more from across Spain in traditional and contemporary designs.
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Large mountain chalet with 1,000-year-old olive trees, a pool, vast terraces and breathtaking views. You get an American-style kitchen, a pool house with bathroom, barbecue, central heating, golf and shops nearby, and the whole place is furnished with genuine antiques.
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The manor house, built in 1531, retains its rancho feel. Objects from centuries ago punctuate the gardens, and the secluded setting is one of great beauty. Rooms and baths are spacious, and there’s a great restaurant, Es Mirador, Ctra. Llucmajor-Porreres.
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Hotel price categories
For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
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