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”

1. 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.
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2. Castell de Bellver

Standing sentinel on a hilltop, the castle of Bellver is immaculately preserved. Its walls have imprisoned queens and scholars, and they now contain an intriguing museum that evokes the island’s past.
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3. Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró

The genius and visionary power of the consummate Catalan artist are concentrated here. Not only can you experience the full range of Joan Miró’s work, but you can also immerse yourself in the atmosphere of his studio.
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4. 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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5. Valldemossa

Arguably Mallorca’s most beautiful town, Valldemossa is where Polish pianist Frédéric Chopin and his lover, French writer George Sand, spent a miserable but creative winter in 1838–9.
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6. Jardins d’Alfàbia

Created by an Arab wali (viceroy) 1,000 years ago, these gardens include parterres, arbours and dells surrounding an all but derelict house. A great place for exploring and relaxing.
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7. Monestir de Nostra Senyora de Lluc

Mallorca’s most ancient holy site is the spiritual epicentre of island life. The monastery houses a sacred statue of the Virgin and Child, and a small museum.
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8. Península de Formentor

A dramatic extension of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, and the site of Mallorca’s very first luxury resort, where kings, presidents and movie stars have come to play.
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9. Alcúdia

Home to the island’s only remaining medieval walled city. It was built on the site of a Roman outpost, the theatre and ruins of which can still be seen.
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10. Coves del Drac

The island is peppered with fantastic caves, and these are the biggest and best. Spectacularly lit, the chambers echo with lilting classical music, played live from boats on one of the world’s largest underground lakes.
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