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Mallorca : Overview & Top 10

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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”
  • Heading out of Sóller, on the way to Lluc, the C710 is perhaps the most dramatic drive of all, traversing tunnels and gorges on its way between Puig Major and Puig Massanella. This beautiful but bleak ravine has been known since ancient times, as evidenced by the Talayot pillar that has been left as a silent sentinel. Several reservoirs have been created nearby.

  • Created by seasonal torrents over millions of years, the ravine near Sóller and Puig Major is up to 400 m (1,312 ft) deep but only 30 m (98 ft) wide, with some sections never seeing daylight. Do not hike between the cliffs in winter.

  • An ideal corner location on an elegant promenade has been claimed by this old-fashioned café (similar to one in Port d’Alcúdia, see Gran Café 1919, Port d’Alcúdia). The staff are done up in black ties, and the décor evokes Belle Époque style with a frothy dash of Catalan Modernista.

  • Gran Café 1919, Port d’Alcúdia

    This sophisticated café with touches of Modernista is always thronged with people. Smartly dressed waiters set the tone.

  • Mallorca’s casino features dinner shows and children’s entertainment as well as gambling (see Gran Casino Mallorca, Calvià).

  • The Las Vegas-style casino-cum-nightclub is a chance to be tempted by both fate and some lavish buffets. Various shows borrow from Cirque de Soleil, using circus performers and other athletically endowed artists. It’s fine to bring the children.

  • Gran Hotel Costa Del Sol

    4* Hotel situated in a quiet area 5 minutes from the centre of Mijas. This Hotel is an excellent base for exploring the small town. Situated right on the beach, it caters for all ages. With entertainment every evening and activities during the day.

  • Set in a mountain-ringed valley, this 17th-century palace is filled with priceless antiques. The beautifully tended grounds feature a large pool, gym and tennis courts. Each room has a unique character.

  • According to locals, a visit here is de rigueur, but when you come, you might wonder what all the fuss is about even if, yes, Bill Clinton did pop by when he was once in town. It’s an elegant, comfortable place with a nice view of the port, but the busy highway between it and the water and the architecturally uninteresting setting make it all seems a little overstated. Still, they do serve good drinks and snacks.

  • From snails roasted with garlic to grilled baby squid, octopus, aubergine, kebabs and sweet bell peppers.

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