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”

Peguera

A sprawling hotch-potch of modern structures and tourist attractions on a bay ringed by sandy beaches and pleasant pine forests. This is where Jaume I, the Conqueror, first came ashore with his army to retake the island from the Moors; now the only interlopers are the yachting enthusiasts in the ultramodern marina.
Pelinca, Inca

A bit off the beaten track, this outlet has an extensive range of stylish jackets, bags and shoes. Prices are slightly lower than elsewhere in town.
Península de Formentor

A dramatic extension of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, and the site of Mallorca’s very first luxury resort, where kings, presidents and movie stars have come to play.
Península de Formentor

Mallorca’s wildest part is full of vivid vistas and precipitous plunges, where driving or hiking are exhilarating and unforgettable experiences. It is also home to Mallorca’s most venerable hotel, where movie stars hobnob, and where crowned heads and diplomats have decided the fate of nations.
Península de Formentor

This jagged spur of the great Serra de Tramuntana range has been saved from overdevelopment mostly due to the fact that a large luxury hotel was built here in the 1920s. The drive out to the lighthouse is unforgettable.
Pepe’s Bar, Cala Sant Vicenç

Set in a classically Spanish building that could be in Andalucia – white with a red-tile roof, and a quaint footbridge – Pepe’s offers simple drinks and snacks.
Perlas Majorica, Manacor

Tour the best-known factory, where the sight of imperfect pearls being smashed can be unnerving. Then enter the large showroom, usually thronged with avid buyers. The glass-cored gems come in every colour and setting imaginable.
Persepolis

Palma’s premier antiques shop has major works of religious sculpture, Old Master paintings, important period furniture, oriental carpets and small silver and enamel pieces.
Petra

This small town is the birthplace of Junípero Serra. Aged 54, the pioneering Franciscan monk travelled to America and Mexico and after many arduous journeys on foot, founded missions in California. The old houses lining the labyrinth of narrow alleys have changed little since Serra’s time here. The town makes the most of its famous son, and all places associated with Serra are well marked. These include a humble building in Carrer Barracar Alt where Serra was born. Next to this is a small museum, opened in 1955, devoted to his life and work, which includes wooden models of the nine American missions established by Serra. At the end of the street in which the Serra family house stands is the 17th-century monastery of Sant Bernat. A series of Majolica panels down a side street next to the monastery are a gift from grateful Californians and pay tribute to the monk.

Petra
Physical, Cala Rajada

The port attracts a young, active crowd for whom this is the numero uno club in town, leading the way with techno, hip-hop and black music.