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”

Roxy Music, Port de Pollença

An artsy venue, with cosy furniture and red walls. The service is friendly and bouquets of silk flowers create a romantic setting. The music is good in summer. You can go online for 2–25 minutes.
sa Calobra

A drive in the country with a difference, the road to sa Calobra takes in a dizzying sequence of hairpin bends as it drops hundreds of metres to the coast. Not for the faint-hearted, make sure you test your brakes first! For the ultimate thrill, try it on a bike!
Sa Calobra

A rapturously beautiful bay, which explains why the tourist buses pour in by the dozen every day. The journey via the steep, winding road is also memorable (see Sa Calobra (Drive)). An easier approach is by boat from Port de Sóller, passing isolated bays and with great views of Puig Major.
Sa Calobra (Drive)

Driving anywhere around Puig Major affords great views and challenges your driving skills. This purpose-made road – which translates as “The Snake” – has earned its name, with 270-degree loops and other harrowing features. It leads to a tiny settlement, where you can explore the dazzling beauties of the box canyon created over aeons by surging torrents.

View from Sa Calobra
Sa Canova, Campos

More good country fare. Consider a fideo (noodle) dish, Mallorcan soup of cabbage and pork, grilled rabbit in onion sauce with snails, lobster casserole or roast duck in port with fresh apple and orange slices.
Sa Cantina, Portocristo

The clubby, nautical-theme decor of the bar, with sailing trophies everywhere, suits the port setting, while the whitewashed medieval interior reminds you of the place’s roots.
Sa Carrotja, Ses Salines

The 17th-century farmhouse has been modernized without losing any of its country charms, a place where you can sample local cuisine made from the proprietor’s own organic produce. A quiet, refined choice, but not really suitable for children.
Sa Cuina, Portocolom

The food served here is a combination of traditional Mallorcan dishes and modern international cuisine. The decor is a nice mix of traditional and contemporary design.
Sa Granja

Experience a complete cross-section of traditional Mallorcan life at this fully restored, noble country estate.
Sa Granja

A mountain estate of gracious architecture and bucolic surrounds. Yet this peaceful haven is also home to a horrific collection of torture devices used by the dreaded Inquisition.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €20
- €20–€30
- €30–€40
- €40–€50
- over €50
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