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”

Orient

Those who make the hair-raising road journey from Bunyola to this hamlet at the foot of Puig d’Alfàbia can have a choice of walks including one to Castell d’Alaró (see Bunyola–Orient–Alaró (Drive) & Alaró.
Other Watersports

Paragliding and jet-skiing are popular. Though windsurfing is also popular around the whole island, it is really best only on the eastern and southern coasts, where the waters tend to be calmer, and within the protected bay of the Port de Sóller (see Port de Sóller). You can hire the equipment from various establishments along the beaches.

Watersports at Cala Deia

Watersports equipment for hire
Pa amb Oli

This is the favourite Mallorcan (and greater Catalonian) snack – a regional version of the more internationally known bruschetta. The basic item is sliced bagette rubbed with garlic then smeared with fresh tomato, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt. To this basic recipe, you can add whatever you please – usually ham and/or cheese. The vibrant flavour is utterly irresistible.

Olives
Pacha, Palma

One of Palma’s top clubs and located along the waterfront, this huge place specializes in loud house music. As with nightlife venues all over Spain, the action doesn’t get going until about 1am – so don’t arrive early and be considered hopelessly naïve or desperate! It’s a mixed crowd at all times, though there are regular gay-themed nights (“Pacha Loca”) in season.
Palacio Ca Sa Galesa, Palma

One of Mallorca’s most lavish hotels, set in a 16th-century palace behind the Cathedral. Sumptuous period antiques and architectural features abound, including stained-glass bathrooms and huge Jacuzzis in some suites.
Palau de l’Almudaina

Having been a royal palace for over 1,000 years, this building’s style speaks of its long, fractious history with an uneasy blending of Islamic and Gothic elements.
Palau de l’Almudaina, Palma

Many Moorish elements can still be appreciated in the old, rambling palace.
Palma Daily Markets

Passeig de la Rambla for flowers, Plaça Mayor, Mercado del Olivar, Mercado de Santa Catalina, Mercado de Pere Garau and Mercat de Llevant for produce.
Palma Weekly Markets

Sundays offer the huge Consell Market, while Saturday is the day for the vast El Rastro Palmesano Flea Market, on Avda. Alomar Villalonga.
Palma’s Walls (Walk)

The best part of the old wall for walking is along the Parc de la Mar (see Parc de la Mar, Palma).

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