Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands in Spain, is a captivating Mediterranean paradise known for its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant culture. It is relatively unknown to American tourist. A week-long trip to Mallorca offers a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration, allowing you to experience the island’s highlights, honestly I could’ve used an extra week in this paradise but was happy with what I got out of this trip!
We started in Port de Sóller, located on the northwest coast of the island. This charming coastal town is nestled between the Tramuntana Mountains and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. We enjoyed a leisurely ride on the historic wooden tram, which takes you from Sóller to the port, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. This town served as a base camp for visiting other small towns on the Tramuntana Range which we’ll share in future write ups. We also enjoyed soaking up the sun on the golden sandy beach and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Walking along the quaint waterfront promenade lined with vibrant cafes, seafood restaurants, and boutique shops was a daily activity.
Canyoneering was also a highlight of this trip as Mallorca has some of the top rated canyons in the world! We hit up three canyons which all ended at the ocean. One had a via ferrata exit, another a snorkeling exit, and the final one had an exit through some tunnels. They were all fantastic!
As we made our way around the island we ventured to the enchanting town of Port de Pollença, situated in the northern part of Mallorca. This coastal gem is renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and its proximity to the stunning Cap de Formentor. A highlight of Port de Pollença is a trip to Cap de Formentor, the northernmost point of the island. You can take a scenic drive or cycle along the winding road, enjoying spectacular views of the rugged coastline and the azure sea. The iconic Formentor Lighthouse and the breathtaking Mirador Es Colomer viewpoint, offer a bird’s-eye view of the dramatic cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea.
As we headed to the south side of the island there was more stunning coastline explore. We made a stop at Drach Caves which was a unique opportunity to hear a classical concert and take a boat ride in the cave. There were some fun little seaside towns including Cala d’Or, known for its pristine coves, white-washed buildings, and upscale marinas. I was glad we explored the full island, but if I were to head back I’d spend the majority of my time up north as I loved the feel of the mountain/coastal towns.
Even though we flew into Palma, we spent the end of our trip in Palma de Mallorca. This city has a charming blend of history, culture, and a bustling atmosphere. The majestic Palma Cathedral (La Seu), with its intricate Gothic architecture and stunning waterfront views is a must visit. Meandering through the narrow cobblestone streets of the historic old town, where you can discover hidden gems like the Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths) and the lively Plaza Mayor. Don’t miss a visit to the magnificent Castell de Bellver, a circular castle offering panoramic views of Palma. Even though this isn’t my jam, I realize Palma might be calling others that love to shop while they travel. So if you are looking for some retail therapy along Palma’s elegant shopping streets you’ll want to head to Passeig des Born and Avinguda Jaume III. Art enthusiasts can explore the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, housing an impressive collection of Balearic and international artworks. A great finish to the day would be a visit to the charming Portixol Promenade, dotted with cozy cafes and stylish restaurants.
Mallorca was never on my travel destination list until I first saw the canyons that were being explored on the island. I’m sure glad it popped up on my radar because it did not disappoint! So if your are trying to figure out your next vacation destination I’d suggest you consider visiting Mallorca to experience a perfect blend of breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable Mediterranean charm.
Overall Worthwhileness
Difficulty – Depends on the activity, when grading this overall trip something we did were much harder than others
Cost – Once there the prices were very reasonable
Beauty
