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”

Sineu Market

Sineu is one of the most interesting towns of Mallorca’s central plain (Es Pla), and its Wednesday market is one of the biggest agricultural fairs in Mallorca, where local produce and livestock are traded. Pearls, leather and lace are among the goods on offer.
Smoked

You’ll find sliced smoked ham everywhere, along with the local sausage, sobrasada .
Snorkelling and Diving

Virtually all the tranquil coves around the island are ideal for snorkelling, with plenty of rocks and hidden recesses to explore. A favourite is the cove down from Estellencs. As for scuba diving, there are several centres, including at Port d’Andratx and Cala Rajada (seePorts and Resorts), offering the gear and boat trips out to the best spots.
Sóller

The town’s name reputedly derives from the Arabic suliar – “golden bowl” – the valley is famous for its orange groves. Notable buildings include the Modernista Banco de Sóller and the Neo-Gothic church of Sant Bartomeu, both the work of a disciple of Antoni Gaudí. Few visitors do more than sit in Plaça Constitució soaking up the atmosphere and sampling tapas, pastries, ice cream and fresh orange juice. The town’s vintage electric train provides a superb ride through the mountains to Palma.
Son Brull hotel & Spa

This is a beautiful hotel in an old convent which offers full spa facilities and an amazing pool with beautiful views over the Mallorcan countryside. even if you aren't staying here or visiting the spa you can have a first class cocktail in the stylish bar or on the terrace enjoying the views. Stylish but unpretentious. It's very close to the lovely town of Pollensa.
Son Colom, Felanitx

This pleasant restaurant has a friendly atmosphere and prides itself on its Mediterranean dishes prepared with local produce.
Son Esteve, Andratx

Dating back to 903, this picturesque structure was originally built by the Moors. Service is very attentive, and the rooms are comfortable – all just minutes from the old town and port. The fee includes an abundant breakfast with homemade yogurt and jams.
Son Gener, Son Severa

Pleasant 18th-century country estate with charm and personalized service. The cooking is top-notch, and all of the elegant rooms are junior suites. There’s a patio, pool and terraces.
Son Marroig

Perched high above the sea, with its famous Neoclassical gazebo imported from Italy, this L-shaped mansion was fashioned by Archduke Salvador see Archduke Luis Salvador of Hapsburg-Lorena and Bourbon. Much admired in Mallorca, the archduke is remembered here with a museum devoted to his life and collections. In the gardens, you can sit in the white Carrara marble rotunda and gaze at the Na Foradada (“pierced rock”) Peninsula, jutting out to sea with a gaping 18-m (59-ft) hole at its centre.
Son Marroig

The famous Archduke Salvador (see Archduke Luis Salvador of Hapsburg-Lorena and Bourbon) had many homes on Mallorca, but Son Marroig was his favourite. The gardens, though terraced in the ancient Arabic fashion, are deliberately left a bit wild in keeping with the slightly rough look of the natural island flora. All this vibrant nature neatly contrasts with the high Renaissance refinement of the architecture, especially the gazebo that offers coastal views of such exquisite perfection.

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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.
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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
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