Travel Guide to Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, Spain, is a destination that beckons lovers to its sun-kissed shores and charming streets. If you're seeking a romantic escape filled with coffee, pastries, stunning beaches, and cultural discoveries, Mallorca is the perfect place to unwind and explore.
Notes on a lovers' lifestyle...
The sun's starting to pour through the curtains. There are three things on my mind: a café solo from the coffee man we've begun calling "our coffee man," a sugary sweet ensaimada from the bakery one door over from him (similar to a beignet and a delicacy in Mallorca), and the beach, of course.
After we wander through the sleepy streets of Arta, we'll inevitably decide which beach on this island will be ours for the day. I peer out of the window, and as expected, the sun's waves are dancing upwards and calling me out.
I push open the shutters, and the sounds of the village start to join in on what the sun's started: the zip and zoom of our neighbor's moped and the children down the alley being hustled along to school. I settle back into thinking, "Oui, si, oh yes, I could live here - like this - forever."
This trip is different for me, technically - we're on vacation. One day in, we were fully settled: morning trips to the market and seaside drives, long soaks in our oversized bathtub at night, and we've said to each other repeatedly, "Vacaciones con mi amor!"
I thought about what to share with you here, and honestly, a trip to Mallorca in the off-season means we had the beaches often to ourselves. We hiked Torrent de Parreis (plan a day for it) with just a few others. Our trips into the Serra de Tramuntana involved us, a few cyclists, and locals.
Only the occasional tour bus hair pinning up the winding roads directly at us. I won't give you a "must-see" list - the island is a bit more than that - however, here's a few things I'll add to your list if you visit:
Beach Bliss
After your morning rituals, it's time to let the sea breeze tousle your hair and the sound of waves serenade your soul. Mallorca boasts numerous pristine coastal stretches, each with its unique charm. Some beach options include:
Cala Gat at Cala Ratjada: A tranquil cove with clear waters, perfect for a romantic escape.
Cala d'Or: A family-friendly resort area with several small beaches, ideal for a stroll.
Cala Pi: Known for its picturesque cove and dramatic cliffs, offering opportunities for scenic walks.
Cala Banyalbufar: A hidden gem surrounded by terraced vineyards, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
Cala Deia: Nestled in a stunning coastal village, this beach is ideal for art and nature lovers.
Sa Calobra: Accessible via a winding road, it offers breathtaking scenery for adventurous couples.
Select the beach that resonates with your desire for solitude or vibrant beach life. Spend your mid-morning hours soaking up the sun, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying each other's company.
Exploring the Markets
Venture into the heart of Mallorcan culture by exploring its vibrant markets.
Arta Market on Tuesdays: Discover local crafts, fresh produce, and artisanal products. It's an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the island's creative spirit.
Sineu Market on Wednesdays: Experience a traditional Mallorcan market day with local flavors and a lively atmosphere. Remember to taste some regional delicacies.
Weekend Markets: If your visit falls on a weekend, watch for markets in other towns. You will find something delightful, whether handcrafted souvenirs or fresh produce.
Charming Towns & Villages
After a relaxing morning on the beach and a visit to the market, it's time to explore some of Mallorca's picturesque towns and villages:
Arta: Roam the streets of this charming town and discover its historic architecture, quaint shops, and local eateries.
Deia: A picturesque village nestled in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Explore the winding streets and soak in the artistic and bohemian atmosphere.
Fornalutx: Known for its picturesque stone houses and vibrant flowers, Fornalutx is a photographer's dream. Stroll through its cobbled streets and enjoy the scenery.
Pollenca: Explore the historic town of Pollenca, known for its vibrant arts scene. Visit the Calvari Steps for panoramic views of the region.
Sineu: Visit on market day or explore its historic architecture and charming squares. This quaint village offers a glimpse into Mallorca's past.
Santanyi: Discover the artistic spirit of Santanyi with its galleries and artisan workshops. The town's main square is perfect for people-watching.
Valldemossa: Wander through this famous town known for its beauty and connection to composer Frédéric Chopin. Visit the Royal Carthusian Monastery.
Port de Soller: Enjoy the waterfront promenade and scenic bay views. Take a tram ride to Soller, a nearby town with a vintage charm.
Other Things to See and Do
Mallorca is a diverse island with something for everyone. Whether you're interested in nature, history, or relaxation, here are some top things to see and do:
Palma Cathedral (La Seu)
Located in the heart of Palma, the stunning Palma Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its interior is equally impressive, featuring intricate stained glass windows and a vast rose window.
Bellver Castle
Perched on a hill overlooking Palma, Bellver Castle is a circular fortress with a unique design. Visit for panoramic views of the city and explore its museum, which houses artifacts from Mallorca's history.
Tramuntana Mountains
Mallorca's Tramuntana Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for hikers. The range offers a variety of trails suitable for all levels, leading to picturesque villages and breathtaking vistas.
Caves of Drach
Located on the eastern coast, the Caves of Drach are a natural wonder featuring impressive stalactites and an underground lake where classical music concerts are held. Guided tours are available.
Culinary Delights
Mallorcan cuisine reflects the island's history and geography, blending Spanish and Mediterranean influences. Here are some dishes and specialties to try:
Paella
While paella is more associated with the mainland, you can still find delicious variations of this rice dish in Mallorca, often made with seafood or rabbit.
Sobrassada
Sobrassada is a soft, spreadable cured sausage made from pork and flavored with paprika. It's a Mallorcan delicacy and is often served on bread.
Ensaimada
This sweet, coiled pastry is a Mallorcan classic. It's best enjoyed with a cup of coffee in a local cafe.
Fresh Seafood
Being an island, Mallorca offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Try grilled sea bass, paella de mariscos (seafood paella), and caldereta de langosta (lobster stew).
Practical Tips
Currency: Mallorca uses the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for small purchases is a good idea.
Language: The official languages are Catalan and Spanish, but English and German are commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in Mallorca. In restaurants, leaving a 10-15% tip is appreciated.
Movie Recommendations for Your Mallorcan Nights
As you wind down your day in Mallorca, consider watching these films to immerse yourself in the Mediterranean atmosphere further:
"Cloud Atlas" (2012)
"Presence of Mind" (1999)
"Bahia de Palma" (1962)
"Our Girl Friday" (1953)
"The Dutchman's Island" (2000)
Books to Read for a Deeper Connection with Mallorca
Enhance your understanding of Mallorca and its culture by delving into these literary works:
"The Vacationers" by Emma Straub
"A Winter in Majorca" by George Sand
"Wild Olives: Life in Majorca with Robert Graves" by William Graves
"Turning Up at Dawn" by Tomas Graves
"The Rocks" by Peter Nichols
"Living in Style Mallorca" by Christine von Auersperg
Closing Thoughts
One day we sat on our rooftop all afternoon - at sunset, I looked down into the alleyways, the smoke rising as the neighbors lit their evening fires and commented: "There is something very Jim Jarmusch about this place..."
A while later, I opened another jar of olives and came across this quote: "If anyone tells you there is only one way, their way, get as far away from them as possible, both physically and philosophically." At that moment, I pulled myself closer to Ben. The sun bounced down over the hazy mountain.
Then fireworks lit up the sky - we found ourselves running into the plaza to see what it was all about. We trailed along to find a wedding party second lining through the village! And in our small town of Arta, tears fell from my eyes, because this world offers so much.
Love and celebration happen everywhere; today, it was all ours and each of these lovers sharing this little island with us. These travel diaries are often the hardest to write; why? Because they're mine.
There is no one else to photograph, interview, or get local stories from. It's just me (and Ben, usually) out there experiencing the world and hoping to share the best of what we've found and experienced (even when we're on vacation) with you.
Gracias, always, for being here.
Wanderfully yours,
Andi
*Ophelia Swimwear provided a wardrobe for this trip. Shop their collection here.
