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”

Bunyola

A charming place in the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana. Inside its church is a much-cherished 14th-century image of the Virgin in alabaster.
Bunyola–Orient–Alaró (Drive)

Another extremely narrow road that threads its way along precipitous mountain ridges, but worth it for the unforgettable views. The town of Orient is a pretty eagle’s-nest of a place, and the glimpse of Castell d’Alaró will fire your imagination (see Alaró).
Byzantine Conquest

In 533, the Byzantines defeat the Vandals and bring the Balearics under their rule, restoring prosperity and also an orthodox form of Christianity. From faraway Constantinople, Emperor Justinian rules the islands as part of the province of Sardinia. They enjoy this Byzantine connection until the end of the 7th century, then become more or less independent, with close ties to Catalonia.
Ca N’Antuna, Fornalutx

Featuring a very small menu of typical Mallorcan cuisine, with offerings changing depending on the season’s best, this unpretentious place is set in a precipitous valley with magnificent mountain views. Offerings might include a Mallorcan garden soup, calamari Roman-style, rabbit, suckling pig and various omelettes.
Ca N’Oleza

This aristocratic mansion has one of the most elegant of the famous Palma patios, with fabulous wrought-iron railings, a Gothic stairway and graceful balustrades.
Caballito del Mar

One of Palma’s top places. Delicious cuisine, from mango soup to marinated salmon carpaccio.
Café del Calvari, Pollença

Light snacks, such as tapas, pa amb oli (see Pa amb Oli), gazpacho, salads, and strawberries and cream.
Café des Casal Solleric

Housed in a historic building, ideal for people-watching, this welcoming café plays hip music and has a local feel.
Café Lírico

Retro bar with photos of old Palma, mirrors, marble and Modernista touches. Fresh juices include maracuya (passion fruit), mango, red papaya, guava and acerola.
Café Lorca

Just off Plaça Gomila, and down a few steps, this friendly hangout is where locals congregate, so it’s a good chance to find out what the scene is really like from those who live it.

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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