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”

Sa Seu, Palma

Mallorca’s grandest church is also one of the greatest Gothic churches anywhere. Flamboyant spires with stone flames give it a prickly look. The vast space and riches inside are also unforgettable (see Sa Seu: Palma Cathedral).
Sa Seu: Palma Cathedral

Looming over Palma Bay, the Gothic cathedral’s immensity is beautifully counterpoised by the softness of its golden colour and the delicate filigree-like carvings. Among the treasures within are the tombs of Mallorca’s first kings.
Sa Torre, Santa Eugènia

The 13th-century estate is surrounded by wheat fields, close to the island’s agricultural centre. The old wine cellar has been converted into an inviting restaurant. All rooms are suites.
San Lorenzo, Palma

This 17th-century manor house in the medieval quarter of Palma has been restored with care, preserving its Mallorcan character while providing every creature comfort. Wrought iron, beamed ceilings, stone and tile accents create an elegant setting. You’ll forget you’re in the middle of a city.
Sant Bernat, Petra

Petra was the birthplace of Fray Junípero Serra, who established missions all over California in the 1700s and early 1800s. The town’s stocky church commemorates the man.
Sant Elm to Sa Trapa (Walk)

This popular walk leads to an abandoned Trappist monastery and has fine views of the island of Sa Dragonera. A shorter route is signposted beside the cemetery on the Sant Elm–Andratx road.
Sant Joan Baptista Belfry

Located in the town of Muro, this beautiful bell tower seems almost Arabic, so slender is the arch that joins it to the imposing church. However, it sports other elements that recall Gothic and Renaissance styles, including stone carvings, a decorative door and coffers. The square in which it is situated is one of the island’s prettiest (see Muro).
Santa Catalina

The island’s only home-grown saint, Santa Catalina Thomàs was born in the 1500s in Valldemossa.
Santa Maria del Camí

A way station for weary travellers through the centuries, the village has a charming Baroque belfry, the Convent dels Mínims and a quaintly traditional Mallorcan textile factory (see Read’s, Santa Maria del Camí).
Santanyí

Founded in 1300 by Jaume II, Santanyí was given a protective wall due to its proximity to the coast. Only part of that wall remains but it gives the place a certain character. For this reason, the town has attracted a large number of foreign dwellers, who have turned it into a rather cosmopolitan, well-kept place compared with nearby towns. Check out the art galleries on the main square (see Ambar, Santanyí).

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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