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”

Hannibal

The Carthaginian leader is said to have been born on the island of Cabrera, just off Mallorca (Ibiza and Malta also claim his birthplace).
Herbs and Shrubs

These include the hair-like wild grass (Ampelodesma mauritanica ) used for fodder, thatching and rope; the Balearics’ only native palm, the dwarf fan palm; giant yucca and aloe; palmetto, used for basketry; aromatic wild rosemary; wild broom; a native variety of St John’s wort; and the giant fennel.
Hidropark

There’s more than enough here to keep your brood busy for two full days. The water-park has one of the highest undulating slides on the island and the spiral tube satisfies the most demanding of thrill-seekers. For more sedate moments, play a round on the miniature golf course.
Hiking and Rock-Climbing

The island is a hiker’s dream, with no end of trails, many of them marked and mapped out. There are compelling challenges for climbers, too, on the rocky cliffs that abound along the entire length of the Serra de Tramuntana, from Sóller in the west to the end of the Península de Formentor in the east. Tourist offices and parks offer published guidelines for tackling the island’s wilds.
Horrach Moyá

A commercial gallery showcasing contemporary, avant-garde Mallorcan artists.
Hostal Bahia, Port de Pollença

Appealing period building with shutters and a sea-front patio, surrounded by gardens and pines. The views are excellent, and the mood relaxed and friendly. Rooms are gracious and spacious, many with terraces, beamed ceilings and interesting antiques here and there.
Hostal Mayol, Cala Sant Vicenç

A building of stone and red tile roofs forms the core of this friendly family hotel on a charming cove. Some rooms have balconies and views, and there’s a sun terrace with chaises longues and a pool.
Hostal Nereida, Portopetro

It’s the only hotel in town! There’s a warm family feeling, a large garden, big swimming pool, children’s park, tennis and an excellent restaurant. Rooms are simple, all with balcony, some with views.
Hostal Playa, Colònia Sant Jordi

Adorably old-fashioned and just a little bit funky, this secret hideaway has a wonderful patio-terrace on a practically private beach, composed of sand and large flat rocks. Old ceramics decorate every room, enhancing the white-washed, red-tiled character of the place.
Hotel Born, Palma

The 16th-century palace of the Marquis of Ferrandell has a classic Mallorcan courtyard entrance with palm trees, marble floors and Ionic columns. Oriental carpets and chandeliers are among other touches. Rooms are simple but comfortable and feature autonomous air conditioning.

Jump to top

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