Alcudia
The original walled Old Town of Alcúdia is well worth a visit for its reconstructed medieval streets and Roman remains. By contrast the resort area is thoroughly modern with high-rise hotels and tourist shops around the bay. The beach is one of Mallorca’s biggest (15 kilometres) and best, with various water sports on offer. To escape the crowds visit the adjacent S’Albufera nature reserve.
Cala d'Or
Six little coves with golden sand and turquoise waters is the raison d’être for Cala d’Or. A modern, multinational low-rise resort in southeast Mallorca, Cala d’Or winds its way around an indented shoreline, punctuated by a series of small marinas. When these beaches get full —which in summer is certain— head south to the equally beautiful coves at Cala Mondrago, Cala Figuera and Cala Llombards.
Cala Millor
The long white sand beach is the main attraction at this purpose-built east-coast resort, popular with families and couples. A promenade backed by mid-rise hotels links it to Cala Bona which features a marina. For a change of pace visit the Punta de n’Amer nature reserve in the adjacent bay, or the Coves del Drac, one of Europe’s most spectacular caves, eight kilometres away.
Cala Ratjada
The east coast’s most popular resort, Cala Ratjada is a densely-developed area of apartments and low-rise hotels, and boasts several fine golden beaches and coves. The most attractive of these is Cala Agulla, backed by pines and dunes; in summer it gets very crowded. There is also an attractive little fishing port from where you can take a day trip to Menorca on a fast hydrofoil (55 minute crossing).
Palma de Mallorca
The island capital, Palma de Mallorca is one of Spain’s most appealing small cities. The highlight of the atmospheric Old Town is its magnificent Gothic cathedral. There are Renaissance palaces and buildings to explore —the Palau de l’Almudaina is recommended— and inviting small modern museums, galleries, and first rate shopping. In the evenings, authentic Mallorcan tapas bars and restaurants rub shoulders with sophisticated nightspots.
Palma Nova - Magalluf
A long-established purpose built resort on the western side of the Bay of Palma, Palma Nova is a home from home for British holidaymakers. Its three golden sandy beaches, Marineland (dolphin and seal shows), two water parks, and the Pirates evening show are perennially popular. Palma Nova merges with Magaluf, well-known for its bars and party atmosphere. By contrast, its other neighbour is the upmarket marina of Portals Nous.
Playa de Palma
A playground for family holidaymakers, this white-sand beach stretches for over five kilometres along the eastern side of the Bay of Palma and is dotted with high-rise blocks and purpose-built resorts. By day, the bay is busy with water sports, and Aquacity water park is very popular. By night, the pubs, bars and clubs are fun and lively; the trendy beach bars of Cala Estancia attract young locals from Palma.
Pollensa
Northwest Mallorca’s prettiest town, Pollensa is sited in the northern foothills of the Sierra de Tramuntana. Its characterful Old Town dates from the 17th and 18th centuries; walk to the top of its Via Crucis for great views. The port and beach area, Puerto Pollensa, is a relaxed modern mid-rise resort set on a wide bay with white sand beaches. The Pollensa International Classical Music Festival (July and August) attracts international stars.
Santa Ponsa
Very popular with British families, Santa Ponsa, on the southwest coast of the island, is a purpose-built resort set on a bay of fine white sand and shallow warm water. Quieter at night than its neighbouring resorts, Magaluf and Palma Nova (both approximately five kilometres east), Santa Ponsa is still close enough to enjoy their family attractions by day.
Sierra de Tramuntana
This dramatic mountain range stretches for 90 kilometres, parallel to Mallorca’s west coast. Ideal for outdoor pursuits such as walking, cycling and climbing, it is home to some of the island’s most picturesque villages. Highly recommended: Valldemosa, (famous for its Real Cartuja monastery), Deia, Fornalutx and Sóller, which has an antique train link direct to Palma. Visit these villages early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
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