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Mallorca : Overview & Top 10

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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”
  • The rooms are modern, but this country house has kept its old wine cellars and stone floors. A sense of timelessness settles over everything as you laze by the pool and listen to the wind in the palms.

  • In the 18th century, Mallorcan country homes became a symbol of prestige, and this one, built by Cardinal Antonio Despuig, is one of the finest examples. The Cardinal was an antiquarian and so adorned his Italianate estate with Classical statuary to complement the grand Neoclassical staircase. The parterres are beautifully laid out in the Italian taste of the day, with not only Classical touches such as fountains and a belvedere, but also picturesque medieval references.

  • Squarely of the late Italian Baroque or early Rococo style of the 1700s, Raixa gardens belonged to a wealthy cardinal, who liberally indulged his taste for collecting Classical statuary. However, only a fraction of his collection remains in the gardens; the rest now adorns the Castell de Bellver in Palma.

  • The 13th-century mystic founded several religious observances on the island.

  • Great 13th-century mystic, poet and scholar who had a profound influence on Mallorcan spiritual life.

  • Italian and Mallorcan cuisine served by the sea. The zabaglione is to die for.

  • Read’s, Santa Maria del Camí

    Arguably, this establishment contains the most perfect food on the island, brought to you by superbly trained waiting staff in an exquisite dining room or on a terrace under the stars. Its Michelin star is well-deserved, and chef Marc Fosh is a true master of creative excellence – every bite is pure pleasure.

  • The dining room of this Michelin star restaurant is defined by two arches, Classical frescoes and of a balustrade overlooking the sea. The food is close to perfect. Don’t miss the Lobster “Cappuccino”.

  • Where else does a trompe-l’oeil lion gaze on you affectionately as you enjoy your Jacuzzi? Elegant yet unostentatious, this is Mallorcan resort living at its finest, where the staff take a genuine interest in your comfort. Its restaurant is also one Mallorca’s best (see Read’s, Santa Maria del Camí).

  • It’s a one hour walk from the Clot d’Almendra to this place, which gives access to the highest summits of the range. The house, an old mountain construction, has been modernized with an en-suite double room and two rooms with bunks for 8 and 12 people. There is heating, and guests can cook their own meals or eat at the restaurant.

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