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”

Illa d’Or, Port de Pollença

Quiet and greenery reign at this 1920s pile by the water. Take a dip from the private beach or simply sip a drink and take in the magnificent views.
Illetes

The western side of Palma Bay is generally upmarket, and “The Islets” typify the area’s allure. Tiny islands, intimate coves, rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides are accentuated with attractive villas and a scattering of exclusive hotels.
Imaginarium

Games, dolls, construction toys, books, furniture and beach things for children under eight.
Inca

Though Inca is a dull town, it is the island’s centre for the production of leather goods. Countless outlets offer buttery leather jackets, supple handbags, trendy shoes and a host of other stylish items (see Pelinca, Inca).
Inca

Inca, the last stop on the train journey from Palma, is a modern industrial place, but visitors come for the cheap leather goods in Avinguda General Luque and Gran Via de Colon. Thursday, market day, is Inca’s busiest time, trading in souvenirs, household goods, flowers and food. Inca is also known for its traditional cuisine, including caracoles (snails), and its wine cellars converted into restaurants.
Inquisition Judges

The hated Inquisition was introduced to the island in 1484 and led to the burning alive of at least 85 people between 1484 and 1512.
Insects

In the warmer seasons, you’ll see plenty of colourful butterflies in the wooded areas of the island, as well as bees, may-flies and mean-looking hornets. In hot weather, especially among cedars, you’ll be treated to the song of the cicadas, keening away at full volume, a wonderful reminder that you’re in the Mediterranean. But flies and mosquitoes might take some dealing with.
Jardí Botànic

The botanical garden was founded in 1985 as a centre for the conservation and study of Mediterranean flora, especially that of the Balearics. The plants, many of which are endangered, include wild flora, medicinal herbs and flowers, fruit trees and vegetables.
Jardineria Pedro, Sóller

Row after row of terracotta and painted pottery of all kinds – jars, pots, planters, dishes, bowls, decorative masks and all sorts of hanging containers. It’s a wildly colourful place and fun just to roam.
Jardines de Sa Faixina, Palma

These gardens start where Avinguda Argentina meets the Passeig Marìtim, and run up to Plaça La Faixina alongside the old moat. There are terraced lawns, trees and flowers, and a few fountains and odd columns providing a welcome respite from all the stone and asphalt of the newer sections of Palma.

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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