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”

Prehistory

Neolithic pastoral societies have formed by at least 4000 BC. They live in the island’s caves and keep domesticated animals. As bronze-working is introduced around 1400 BC, the Talayot period begins (seeSes Paisses, Capocorb Vell).
Pub Bassic, Port de Sóller

A bit off the beaten path, and mostly for a younger crowd. The music focuses on the latest hits.
Pub Noray, Port d’Andratx

The top bar in Port d’Andratx is centrally located at the port and popular with tourists and locals alike. Open in the evenings only, it quickly gathers momentum and is soon crowded with port denizens enjoying themselves and the parade of passers-by. The bar features a range of traditional and innovative drinks for you to sample as the night wears on.
Pub Noray, Port d’Andratx

Special drinks include the Noray (orange juice, dark rum, cassis and grenadine) and Chameleon (curaçao, rum and OJ). The place is popular with Brits and Mallorcans.
Puerto de Soller

A picturesque circular harbour with plenty of waterfront bars and restaurants that can be reached by historic train followed by tram from Palma
Puig Caragoler

Access is via Camí Vell de Lluc, a pilgrim trail that used to be the only way to get to Lluc Monastery.
Puig de Massanella

The highest mountain that can actually be climbed on the island.
Puig de Randa

The only highpoint on the Central Plain – site of Santuari de Nostra Senyora de Cura (see Santuari de Nostra Senyora de Gràcia).
Puig de Santa Eugénia (Walk)

From the village of Santa Eugénia, walk to Ses Coves, used at various times as bandit hideouts and wine cellars. From here, a series of tracks takes you up to a pass and the cross on the summit of Puig de Santa Eugénia, affording wonderful views.
Puig de ses Bassetes

Southwest of Massanella, near the beautiful Gorg Blau reservoir, among some of Mallorca’s most stirring landscapes.