MALLORCA, SPAIN: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO A BALEARIC ISLAND PARADISE

Oh, Mallorca! You are a dream. Your picturesque villages, local markets, hiking trails and breathtaking beaches are so different than the strip of tacky nightclubs and dingy hotels I remembered from my first holiday with my friends after our final school exams aged 18.

For such a small place, there are so many things to do and beautiful towns and resort areas on Spain’s most popular Balearic island, with loads of great hotels and accommodation.

Mallorca is so easy to get to, we flew from Barcelona which is only 30 minute flight and cost €32. Mallorca is famous for its beautiful, sandy beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters, sheltered coves, rugged mountains and picturesque villages.

Mallorca is a beachgoer’s dream, home to rugged coastline scattered with more than 200 picturesque calas (small inlets) and beaches. Pair that with the quaint villages, picturesque waterfronts, impressive mountains, fresh seafood, delicious tapas, some of Europe’s best hiking, and you have one of the most sought-after summer destinations in Europe. Below is my ultimate guide to the island, I share with you my favourite places, the best beaches, hikes, what to see, where to stay and eat. I hope you enjoy it!

WHEN TO VISIT MALLORCA

• MAY, JUNE & SEPTEMBER – Mallorca has become quite popular in recent years. And while it’s hard to escape the summer crowds, June and September offer the best balance of warm weather, hotel selection and hotel prices. And it’ll be slightly less busy than July and August. We visited in late May and this was perfect temperature wise and little crowds.
• JULY & AUGUST – July and August temps can be unbearably hot, and summer crowds peak this time of the year.
• APRIL & OCTOBER – Lodging pricing is reasonable during shoulder season, but the island is not fully open in April and late October. Weather can be hit and miss, and likely too cold for beach days in April.
• NOVEMBER TO MARCH – If you are looking to hit the beach I would avoid visiting this time of the year. The weather is cold with chances of rain. But you can get beautiful clear days perfect for hiking and cycling.

HOW TO GET TO MALLORCA?

Plane is the best way do get to Mallorca. If you plane to fly from Europe, you can check cheap European airlines such as Wizzair, Ryanair, Veuling, Aerlingus, EasyJet, the flights start at 30-40 EUR. Palma is well connected with most  bigger cities in Europe. It’s possible to fly to Mallorca direct from the US too now. We saw flights landing in from New York in to Palma with United when we visited in May. You can check that on their website.

GET AROUND MALLORCA

A car is a must on Mallorca if you are hoping to explore. The driving distances are long and the island is surprisingly bigger than you would expect. For example, it’s more than an hour on the road to get from the village of Deia to Cala Llombards. Everywhere you’re propably wanting to visit is just so much easier to reach with a car. All the major car brands have rental counters at the airport. We rented from Gold Car, they seemed to be the cheapest.

BY RAIL

If hiring a car isn’t your thing, there is a beautiful scenic train that runs from Palma to Soller several times a day, it takes just over an hour. Tickets are €28 and can be purchased online or at the station in Palma. Get the train timetable here. There is also a historical wooden tram from Soller to Port de Soller that is a much a tourist attraction as it is a mode of publoic transport. We got the tram one evening from Port de Soller into Soller for dinner. I highly recommend taking the tram just for the experience and views alone. Tickets are bought on the tram from the conductor and are €8 one way.

BY BUS

We caught the bus after a hike from Deia back to Port de Soller and the buses seemed very well organised and ran on time. From Palma you can get anywhere on the island by bus, whether it is a day trip outside of the city or to get across town, and from outside Palma, a bus stops in nearly all villages to come to the city. There are two main bus companies in Mallorca, the EMT (blue and white buses) which run bus routes across Palma and the surrounding areas, and the yellow and red TIB buses or coaches which link the villages and towns with Palma. Hiring a car would of course be easier but if driving on the mountainous road is not your vibe, you can get around with some more planning and carefully picking your accommodation.

WHERE TO STAY IN MALLORCA?

It depends on what you’re looking for – nightlife, views or beaches. If you want to explore the isalnd and have longer than a week, I recommend hiring a car and moving around between 3-4 places and spending 3-4 nights in each place. If you have 5 days or less, I recommend staying in South of the island, close to Palma. Some of the best beaches, wineries and the islands wineries are less than a forty minute drive from Palma. In Palma we stayed in Hotel Es Princep, it’s close to the airport (there’s a bus), there is a long and sandy beach opposite the hotel, it’s a ten minute walk to the old town and port, it has free parking and you can easily drive to the rest of the island. I highly recommend this hotel, the food & the location were great! Below you can check the photos from my stay in 2024:

HOW MANY DAYS ON MALLORCA?

LONG WEEKEND: This is enough time just to get a taster of what the island has to offer, base yourself in Palma, visit the cathedral, old town and the beaches around Palma. Take a day trip to Soller on the train and wander around the quaint town, take the tram from Soller to head for an early dinner and wander around Port de Soller taking in the crystal clear water with the mountains in the background.

EIGHT TO 10 DAYS: Mallorca might be an island, but it’s a massive island. And while more than a week is a lot of time to dedicate to any destination, I’d say it’s the minimum you need to get a good taste of Mallorca. There are more than 200 beaches and calas scattered along the picturesque coastline, as well as villages, hikes and historical sights to discover. I recommend breaking your trip into staying in three locations: Palma, Valldemossa and Cala D’Or. This will give you a nice mixture of stunning beaches, mountain towns and hikes and city life with incredible restaurants, beach clubs and the historical city.

TWO WEEKS: Everything on the Mallorca is reachable by car, but driving distances are long. And while a one hour drive to reach an epic beach might sound reasonable on paper, with traffic and then driving to another area and hour the opposite direction, it becomes pretty draining to do this several days in a row. With two weeks on the island, you can go between road trip days, beach days and hiking days. This gives you ample time to visit the island at a leisurely pace, visit less known towns and beaches and not feel like you need another holiday after.

MALLORCA QUICK TIPS

• “CALA” – WHAT IS IT? You’ll hear this word a lot on Mallorca. A cala is a coastal cove or inlet. Most of the island’s best beach spots are actually calas, hence the names Cala Pi, Cala Llombards, Cala Formentor, etc.
• CURRENCY – The local currency is the Euro. It’s always a good idea to have local currency handy, but it was hardly necessary on Mallorca. Everywhere took credit cards – restaurants, gelaterias, boat rentals, petrol stations, etc.
• PARKING– Parking is free on Saturday and Sundays. Some of the towns have paid parking and it can be really hard at times to find parking in some of the smaller towns like Deia and Valldemossa.

EXPLORE MALLORCA: PLACES TO VISIT

PALMA

The capital of this beautiful island and a resort city with an explosion of new trendy restaurants, luxury boutique hotels, fashionable bars with views, people watching in the cities best cafes with terraces, designer shopping boutiques and popular nightclubs not to mention it’s urban beaches and waterfront promenade. Palma is appealing year round with over 300 days a year of sun. It has a charming old town centre and the various neighbourhoods means there is something for everyone in Palma

WHAT TO SEE

Palma Cathedral: Make sure this is top of your sightseeing list in Mallorca. This stunning 14th century Gothic Roman cathedral sits in the heart of Palma, towering over Old Town and the Bay of Palma. The best photo location to capture the entire church is from across the lagoon, along the stone ledge.

Palma Old Town: Palma’s Old Town is a gorgeous area and compact area to stroll around. It hosts a lively scene of quaint cafés and restaurants, as well as art galleries and boutiques. The Old Town’s cobblestoned alleyways are a perfect way to spend an afternoon meandering around the boutiques and eateries.

Bellver Castle: A royal fortress, summer residence and even a prison, Castell Bellver is a striking Palma landmark, offering panoramic views overlooking the city of Palma and the pine forests that surround this magnificent castle. Visit the museums and, occasionally on summer evenings, the Castle’s central courtyard is the setting for classical concerts under the stars.

Palma’s Beach Clubs: Relax at one of Palma’s Mediterranean chic beach clubs. Anima is closest to town and the place for cocktails, international cuisine, guest DJs and themed parties. Assaona, situated a little further along the promenade has understated organic décor and a delicious menu. PuroBeach offers 180-degree sea views from its small peninsula, a pool, trendy terrace and wellness treatments. Of course, you could also simply lie beneath one of the many Tiki umbrellas along Palma’s long sandy beach.

WHERE TO STAY

$$$ Hotel Es Princep: This beautiful 5* hotel is perfecly situated near the old town and a few minutes walk from the beach and cathedral with stunning sea views from its rooftop pool and restaurant. The staff couldn’t have been more friendly and they have free carparking onsite. It was so easy to access the rest fo the island from. The rooftop pool and bar really was the highlight of this hotel for us.

$$ Hotel Santa Clara. We didn’t stay here but looked into it if we wern’t going to slurge on the above hotel. The modern Santa Clara can be found just 200 metres from the sea and Palma Cathedral. It has a rooftop terrace, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and spa. It has a roof terrace offers superb views over Palma, as well as loungers for sunbathing. The spa and wellness centre has a hot tub and Turkish bath. Prices start from €160 a night midweek.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

You will be spoiled for choice with restaurants, beach clubs and bars in Mallorca. Some of our favourites were:

Es Princep Rooftop Bar: We stayed in this hotel which had epic city and sea views. We had breakfast a la carte one morning here and also cocktails on our last night. It is a bit more expensive than your average cocktail bar in Mallorca but the setting is 10/10.

Vida Meva: A family run restaurant tucked away in a quiet side street on the edge of Sa Gerreria. From a table outside in the shade of the awning you can watch the neighbourly goings-on. The restaurant has a very casual atmosphere but the food would stand up to fine dining. Very reasonably priced with beautiful surrounding of the old town and a church.

Ben Trempat: Just across the road from Vida Meva is another hidden gem. Very unassuming tiny restaurant with tables in the square overlooking the church. The extensive tapas menu is on a blackboard only. It is such good value for the quality of the food and a very local place to eat.

Rikito: A modern Italian eatery in the heart of Santa Catalina offering fresh pasta, pizzas and mozzarella made daily.

El Camino: A relatively new concept in Palma, El Camino is much like a traditional tapas bar save for the bar itself, which is the longest bar you’ve ever seen. The ambience is great and the food wonderfully fresh and flavoursome. Recommended if you are 2 but for a large group it’s not conformable.

Cafe Ca’n Toni: Tasty little tapas spot located in the heart of Palma’s Old Town. Reservations are recommended at night when the restaurant is popping, but during the day it’s possible to walk in. Highly recommend sitting outside on their covered patio.

Raw Coco Green Bar: Cute breakfast cafe in Palma that serves delicious smoothies, tasty muffins, toasts, waffles and acai bowls.

Urba: This is Santi Taura’s cosmopolitan offering at the stylist 5-star El Llorenc. Available for dinner and lunch, the restaurant offers a beautiful a la carté menu as well as an exciting tasting menu. Visit between May and October and enjoy their breathtaking rooftop experience. Delicious unpretentious food, memorable views and décor to die for!

AROUND PALMA:

WINERIES

Mallorca is home to some of Europe’s finest wineries. Other great way to spend the day is visiting a few of the wineries only a 20 minute dirve from Palma city centre. There is a wine train and several companies running wine tours with pick up and drop off from the city centre or your hotel.

The first winery we visited was Bodegas Angel, located in the heart of Mallorca’s wine region, near the town of Santa Maria Del Cami, which is just over a 20 minute drive from Palma. The bodega has been built in the style of the traditional stone cladded Mallorca buildings, with large windows to show the beautiful views of the vineyard. The vineyard and winery are surrounded by the natural beauty of Mallorca’s “sierra norte” mountain range. Tastings of 4 wines and a small tapas is €20.

The oldest winery in Mallorca, Bodega Ribas is located in Consell, a historical wine region of the island,at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains. This family run winery has a beautiful court yard where the tastings take place. We stoppped for lunch here and ordered a meat and cheese platter which was delicious and so filling. Recommend visiting her for lunch. A tasting of a selection of 4 wines, served with Mallorcan cocas, traditional brown bread and olive oil produced on the vineyard is €30 per person.

Finca Serena Mallorca. This is a five star hotel 25 minute drive from Palma that grows most of their own produces, including their own wine. It is one of the best hotels in Mallorca set on a 40-hectare estate in the interior of Mallorca where everything is calm and peaceful. Their restaurant on site offers the most authentic cuisine of local flavors in our Jacaranda Restaurant under the gastronomic direction of Oscar Velasco. They also have a wellness room, a heated indoor pool, outdoor pool and fireplace. We visited for their rice nights that take place every Tuesday from 6-8pm from May- Oct. The food was exquiste and such great value for the quality and setting. It is 60 per person for a buffet three course meal serving paellas, starters, array of desserts and they also had live music. We didn’t stay in the hotel, just visited for dinner. Rooms start from $880 mid week. I highly recommend visit the hotel even for dinner or lunch and wine tasting.

Camp de Mar

This seafront town in the southwest of Mallorca, close to Andratx, is a popular sophisticated beach area surrounded by small, exclusive hotels and is popular with the well-heeled and glitterati who flock here during the summer months. It’s about a 30 minute drive from Palma so it is easily visited for a day trip or just for lunch in Restaurant Iileta, is which is connected to the beautifully clean beach area with a little wooden bridge which stretches towards a rocky islet called ‘La Illeta’. This restaurant was a highlight from our Mallorca trip and one of the most beautiful settings I’ve ever had lunch in. Sipping aperol spritz surround by crystal clear waters, it doesn’t get much better than this. We booked Restaurant Illeta a few days ahead which I definitely recommend doing in summer months and if you want a seat by the waters edge.

DEIA

Every guide to Mallorca talks about Deia. It is the perfect place to base yourself if you are visiting Mallorca on a walking holiday. Perched in the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountains, near the west coast, tiny Deia is a great spot for stellar coastal and mountain views. It’s cobblestone streets nestled between olive groves and rugged cliffs are a photographers dream.

Deia is part of a cluster of storybook villages on the island’s west coast. It’s small, and not a lot going on, but perfectly serene to visit in the evening, especially if you have a dinner reservation at El Olivio, Restaurant Nama or Restaurante Miro. Wander through the village and you’ll find a handful of boutiques, restaurants and a church perched on the village hilltop.

WHAT TO SEE

As I mentioned, there isn’t a whole pile going in in the town itself but it is just so picturesque. The beach in Deia is one of the most breathtaking beaches in Mallorca so a stroll down to Cala Deia should be top of your list. Deia is perfectly located to tackle some of the most famous hikes in Mallorca, one of them being the GR211. This is a 140-kilometre long walk, in which you explore the Serra Tramuntana in ten stages. Ruta de Pedra en Sec translates as Drystone Route, while GR221 is the ‘official’ name. The route stretches from Port d’Andratx to Pollença. It passes through Deia so tackling part of this track on a day hike is a beautiful way to spend the day. A day hike to Valldemossa or Port De Soller is very doable in a few hours, leaving plenty of time for the return journey and lunch in one of the stunning towns.

Visit Son Marroig Museum: Deià, on the cliff you will find Son Marroig estate. It is one of the most romantic locations on the west coast of Mallorca, with sweeping views of the rugged coastline. I actually viewed this location as a possible wedding venue. Visit here at sunset for some of the most breath taking views. The roof of the pavilion is supported by white columns and from here you have a fantastic view of the coastal landscape. Since 1927, Son Marroig estate has been open to the public. In the main building there is a Museums in Mallorca that sheds light into Ludwig Salvator’s life and works.

Cala Deià: Cala Deia is a beautiful cove located on the west coast, just below the village of Deia. The crystal clear water sparkles deep shades of turquoise offering up an ideal setting for sunbathing, swimming and cliff jumping. This is a rocky beach – no sand in sight! So arrive early to claim a good boulder, rock or platform for sunbathing. We set ourselves up on the cement slab that extends into the water at the base of the Ca’s Patro March staircase.

WHERE TO STAY

$$$$ La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel. Constructed of local stone and hidden among the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana, La Residencia is one of the island’s crown jewels. If you have a big budget or are looking to slurge for a special occassion, this is the hotel to stay at on the island. The five-star property sits at the heart of life in the Deia and has few rivals for luxury on the island. If staying her is out of your budget, it is well worth going for an aperitif in their restaurant Cafe Miro or booking dinner in El Olivio.

$$ Hotel Es Molí: A gorgeous family run hotel in the heart of Deia with a large pool, garden, views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and a free shuttle bus to the Muleta, access to the Mediterranean Sea, which is exclusive to the hotel’s guests. The hotel has a gym and the room rate includes buffet breakfast in the restaurant. Rooms start from €150 midweek in low season.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

Ca’s Patro March: The best restaurant view on the island is from Ca’s Patro March, perched above the stunning blue waters of Cala Deia. The menu is filled with fresh, delicious seafood options. We didn’t have a reservation, we stumbled upon this restaurant when on a hike to Deia. We put our name on the list and were called within 20 minutes for our table.

Restaurante Miro: If El Olivio is booked up, then it’s neighbour Restaurante Miro is a perfectly fine alternative. It’s the sister restaurant that’s also located at Belmond La Residencia. The view is a little different, but it’s the same serene outdoor ambiance of Deia, and the menu is filled with delicious, fresh options including seafood, pastas and salads. We originally booked dinner here but managed to get a walk in for El Olivo.

El Olivo: offers a fine dining experience and boasts one of the best views over the magical village of Deià. It is the finest of Mediterranean and Mallorcan cuisine with the majority of the ingredients sourced locally, some even coming from the hotel’s own vegetable garden. The esteemed restaurant has renewed its offerings, translating the surroundings of Deià into a tasting menu. Presented in either a full 12-course menu or in the reduced 6-course version. For vegan diners, separate tasting menus are offered as an alternate route on this exciting culinary adventure. The price of dinner in eye watering but the setting is emaculate, worth it for a special occassion. Reservations are usually next to impossible if you are not a hotel guest so book months in advance.

Restaurant Nama: Lovely restaurant in Deia, and one of the few upscale Asian fusion menus on Mallorca. Reservations recommended, request a table on the terrace for stunning views over the gardens and of the Serra de Tramuntana.  This restaurant also focuses on fresh local and organic ingredients sourced from the island. You’ll find a colourful selection of mouth-watering dishes from the likes of their signature pad thai to spicy Sri Lankan curry, as well as an excellent sushi bar.

Trattoria Italiana: The only restaurant in the village dedicated to Italian cooking, this traditional trattoria serves up everything you would expect from handmade pasta to creamy risotto. Service is friendly with a pleasantly laid-back vibe, plus there’s a lovely al fresco terrace with beautiful views – perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner over the warmer months. One of the more budget friendly restaurants in the village.

VALLDEMOSSA

A village steeped in old world charm, this historic town in West Mallorca within the Tramuntana mountain range is a must visit on any trip to Mallorca. Its warm, yellow buildings set against the bright blue sky and lush greenery make it look like something out of a painting. The population of the village is only 2000 people but tourist flock her during the summer months. The streets are dotted with boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Valldemossa is the perfect place to base yourself if you are planning on doing some hiking. We stayed just outside Valldemossa town but you could also stay in Deià, roughly a 20- minute drive away.

WHAT TO SEE

Església de Sant Bartomeu: In the heart of the Valldemossa, you’ll find this beautiful church. Take in the architecture, then linger in the plaza outside for some good old small-town people-watching.

Carthusian Monastrey Valldemossa: Built for the son of the king of Mallorca back in the fourteenth century, it was handed over to an order of Carthusian monks when that son grew up and gave away all of his possessions. The monastery eventually fell into private hands and was rented out by the room. With its fascinating history and stunning architecture, this monastery is one of the town’s biggest claims to fame. 

Port De Valldemossa: It’s a rather narrow drive down to the village beach from Valldemossa, but once parked it’s a lovely place to spend the afternoon. The waterfront is charming, and an absolute vibe.

WHERE TO STAY

$$ Ca’s Garriguer: Small, cosy, rural hotel located on this beautiful old ‘finca’ Son Olesa (a country estate) located just outside Valldemossa (40 minute walk), a stunning, rolling countryside setting, great for walking holidays with spectacular routes and footpaths. Renovated and converted in a small hotel, it offers guests a bed & breakfast service, gardens, swimming pool area with sun terrace, parasols and sun loungers. The décor of each of the areas is personalized and following the traditional country Mallorcan style. The hotel also has free bikes to rent and free parking onsite. This was one of the nicest, most peaceful places we stayed in Mallorca. It is also very reasonable at €150 a night.

$$ Son Niu Vell-La Hermossa: An adults-only guest house with an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a terrace. The property features mountain and pool views. There is a coffee shop on site and packed lunches are also available if you are headed off hiking for the day. There is free parking available onsite. It is worth noting the country house is a steep 15/20 minute walk uphill into Valldemossa centre. Double rooms including breakfast start from €160 midweek in low season.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

Es Taller: a popular restaurant situated in a former garage, just a few minutes walk from Valldemossa’s town centre. There’s an emphasis on using locally-sourced seasonal ingredients. It’s a great place to unwind with good music and good service. The terrace seating has nice views of the orchard and mountains that surround the village.

Barbaflordia Cafe: This charming little cafe in Valldemossa is a wonderful stop for a light morning breakfast, coffee or tea.

Forn i Pastisseria Ca’n Molinas: Famous for their Balearic pastries, this is the perfect place to start your day. Wake up early and fuel your day with their fresh brew, then get down to sampling.

Tips for Parking in Valldemossa

If you’re driving, it is important to note that you need to pay for parking and then put the slip on the dash of your car. Be sure to always have some change in the car. It’s two euros per hour so come prepared or plan time to go to a shop to get change. If you arrive around 11 or 12, parking can be nearly impossible to find. Try to arrive earlier in the day to make it easier.

SOLLER

The town of Sóller is one of the most beautiful in Mallorca. It is a paradise for hikers and cyclists, gourmet lovers, and a desirable hideaway option. The authentic town of Sóller sits in the North West part of Mallorca and lie 3 km inland from coastal Port de Soller. Soller is a popular town to visit on a day trip from Palma as it is easily reached by an old wooden train in under an hour. The train journey in itself is worth taking for the views alone. The old style tram between old town Soller and Port de Soller is also worth a trip, passing orange groves and peaceful gardens as it trundles along.

WHAT TO SEE

The Church of Sant Bartomeu: It sits on the main square, it makes for a perfect photo with the tram passing right beside it. Make sure you peek in to admire the grand interiors.

Can Prunera: The Museum of Modernism. Wander around this rare gem of preserved and restored modernism right in the heart of the town.

Hiking: This is one of the most beautiful areas for hiking, with stunning mountain and sea views all around. Make sure you take the trail from Soller to the beach at Cala Tuent (and get the the boat back!).

Markets: Sóller’s Saturday market is a gem. Besides stalls groaning with colourful fruits and vegetables – priced much lower than the delis – you’ll find Mallorcan pottery and lovely island delicacies. The covered market has fresh fish and a good selection of fresh flowers and plants.

WHERE TO STAY

We were torn on whether we should stay in Soller or Port de Soller, we chose Port de Soller in the end and I am glad we picked there. As stunning as this old charmng mountain village is, there is less to do and require either to hike, drive or take the tram to access a beach. If you are looking for more hiking and authentic mountain town vibes, I recommend staying in Soller. If you want to be close to the beach with mountain views, stay in Port de Soller.

Gran Hotel Soller: This 5* luxury boutique hotel has elegance and charm and is ideally situated in the centre of town but with no traffic noise, five minutes from the main square and tram/train. The rooftop pool has beautiful views of the church, as well as an indoor pool, a rooftop terrace and a Jacuzzi. A double room starts from $200 including breakfast in low season.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

Luna 36 is a real winner in Sóller; a cosy, bang-up-to-date restaurant housed in a former chocolate factory that ticks all the boxes for food, service, atmosphere and originality. The menu is varied and healthy with an Danish and argentinian influence, using organic ingredients whenever possible.

Ca’n Pintxo is a buzzing tapas bar where you can eat as much or as little as you like, accompanied by drinks. Grab a table on the little outdoor terrace for the full Spain-at-night effect.

S’a Granja: a cheap and cheerful option with outdoor seating looking onto the church and tram. This is a family friendly option that won’t break the bank for their cocktails, local Mediterranean food and tapas.

PORT DE SOLLER

Surrounded by the Tramuntana mountains, Port de Soller is one of the few towns that can claim both magnificent mountain scenery and breathtaking sea views and beaches. This small picturesque coastal village located in North West Mallorca which has become well known and popular particularly due to its historic tram, large bay with protected harbour and scenic surroundings.

WHAT TO SEE

The Port : Port de Sóller’s setting alone is a sight in itself, surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Tramuntana mountain range with crystal clear waters of the beaches, the board walk lined with pretty restaurants and shops.

Old-style wooden tram: The tram is as much a tourist attraction as it is a mode of transport between between the town of Soller and Port de Sóller – its tracks passing citrus-filled gardens – was originally used to transport oranges, but is now a pleasant way to travel to the attractive port.

Torre Picada: The watch tower in the north east of Port de Sóller was built as part of an island-wide defence system against (pirate) attacks. A short hike leads to the tower which is rewarded with far-reaching and stunning views.

Take a boat trip: Pleasure boat trips from the port follow the rugged coastline to Sa Calobra, where it’s a short walk to the spectacular Torrent de Pareis. The alternative route to this hidden gorge is the thrilling and incredibly engineered mountain road to Sa Calobra. With 12 hairpin bends and awesome views, it’s not for the faint-hearted! Boating trips are also offered to nearby Cala Deià with stunning wild coastal cliff scenery along the way. Snorkelling is possible along the entire coast and the water is refreshing and crystal clear. You can also hire a boat with or without a licence from Soller Boats. A half day (4 hours) starts from €190.

Hike the GR221: Hikers and Nordic walking fans are in their element, with the Serra de Tramuntana’s GR221 long-distance path passing through the port. We walked part of the GR221 starting in Port de Soller and finishing in Deia, with a detour to Cala Deia.

WHERE TO STAY

There are plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets in Port de Soller, we found it was cheaper with far more options than Soller.

$$$ Jumeirah Mallorca: above Port de Sóller on Mallorca’s unspoilt northwest coast, thsi 5* hotel offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the UNESCO Heritage Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. If you don’t have the budget to blow on this hotel, the rooftop terrace is stunning for sunset drinks. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from Port de Sóller. The hotel is a 25 minute walk from the Port. A double room starts from E555 midweek in low season.

$$ Bikini Island & Mountain Hotel Port de Sóller:  Another hotel with stunning views of stunning Port de Sóller Bay and the Tramuntana Mountains. This 4 star hotel has a heated outdoor pool and a lovely restaurant- NENI Mallorca. The views from the rooms are gorgeous and its not far from the beach and promenade.

$ Hotel Marina: The family-run Hotel Marina overlooks Platja den Repic Beach, located just 10 metres away, and the promenade in Port de Sóller. It features an outdoor pool, free spa and rooms with private balconies. Free beach towels are provided and the buffet breakfast included was very extensive. The rooms are basic but the location is ideal and rooms are good value starting at $170 a night wit breakfast included and free parking.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

NENI: This restaurant is about creating a sense of community and warmth through the act of sharing food. The restaurant encourages a family-style dining experience where guests can indulge in a variety of dishes together. Great location to watch sunset over the Port.

Patiki Beach: Another great location to watch sunset from. Patiki Beach is a restaurant and beach bar that is run by a family, offering a menu that is driven by seasonal produce. They pride themselves on sourcing directly from the best local farmers, fishermen, and artisanal producers.

Villa Luisa: situated on the seafront and offers a breathtaking view of the port and delicious food and drinks while taking in the stunning sunsets.

Blai: Relatively new and is fast becoming a top choice for eating in Port de Soller. The seasonal menu is carefully curated complemented by an impressive array of local wines. Picturesque location on the waterfront and staffed by warm and welcoming individuals, we couldn’t find any flaws in this establishment.

Nautilus: Stunning location at sunset, perched on a cliff overlooking the entrance to the port of Puerto de Sóller. Offering top-notch menus and impeccable service, it provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying a spectacular sunset with a breathtaking view of the sea. Book ahead, reservations are a must here during the summer. It is closed Monday and Tuesday and opens only for dinner midweek.

Beach House: A mist-visit shop on the Port de Soller waterfront that serves delicious smoothies, crepes and ice creams. Great place for breakfast.

DAY TRIPS FROM SOLLER/ NORTH COAST OF MALLORCA

Sa Calobra: Sa Calobra is reachable via one of the island’s curviest road. With 12 hairpin bends and awesome views, it’s not for the faint-hearted! Park at the paid lot, and then follow the path along a gorgeous stretch of coastline out to Sa Calobra, an absolutely stunning beach that sits trapped between two limestone cliffs. The cove is wide and deep, so the water here doesn’t get murky when crowded. There are rocks, cliffs and stone steps to swim out to for cliff jumping. And the water colour is stunning.

Mortitx Canyon: If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, explore the stunning waterfalls and canyons of northern Mallorca. Mortitx Canyon in the Serra de Tramuntana is particularly stunning, and no canyoning experience is necessary if you book with a tour company. Món d’Aventura is a solid option.

Port De Sa Calobra Beach: A lovely small port beach that is the first water you’ll see on the walk from the parking lot to Sa Calobra. It isn’t nearly as epic as Sa Calobra, but still worth a stop. It’s beautiful.

Alcudia Old Town: This lovely Old Town in north Mallorca is a beautiful place to spend a couple of hours exploring. The historic town centre is walkable. Highlights include the Porta de Moll, St. Debastian’s Gate and medieval walls.

Fornalutux: Often considered as the prettiest villages in Spain, Fornalutux is a mountain village that sits trapped in the Serra de Tramuntana. Another charming cluster of stone houses, cobbled lanes and potted plants. The fairytale setting is filled with the tapas restaurants, shops, a church and market square. A great place to stop for lunch is Ca N’Antuna, in the middle of orange and olive groves. Take a seat in the small terrace and soak in the amazing views of Fornalutx and the mountains of Serra de Tramuntana.

Mirador Coll De Reis: On the drive to Sa Calobra Beach, stop at Mirador Coll de Reis for epic views of the ultra curvy Sa Calobra Road that winds down to the waterfront below.

Cap de Formentor: Cap de Formentor is the northernmost point of the island of Mallorca, far from the main tourist haunts. Nine miles of winding road and hairpin bends lead up lead up to the Formentor lighthouse; the views are breathtaking all the way up to the top. On a clear day, you’ll be able to spot neighbouring ports and islands. The drive can be challenging, and cars are banned on stretches of the road during the warmer months. Consider getting on a coach from Port de Pollenca, or hiking up from the splendid Formentor Beach. We drove up in May and the road was back to back cars for 2 km from the lighthouse. Parking is extremely limited at the top. I recommend going very early or hiking from Formentor Beach.

Cala Figuera: This small beach is nestled within a small bay,  encircled by the  towering mountains in the northeast of Mallorca on the Cap de Formentor. Its remote location and stunning mountainous backdrop make it all the more beautiful, and provides a more peaceful and subdued beach experience compared to Playa de Formentor. The water here is crystal clear, perfect for snorkelling thanks to its rocky bottom. To reach here you will need to drive here then park and walk for around 1.5 kilometres (15 to 20 minutes) from the car park to reach the beach. The path is well signposted, but bear in mind that it is quite a steep hike back up which takes around 30 minutes.

CALA D’OR

Cala d’Or – or the ‘Golden Bay’ – is a popular beach area on the southeast coast of Mallorca. In Cala d’Or you really get an all-round holiday experience with wonderful beaches, options for interesting day trips and boat trips and a varied nightlife. I found Cala d’Or to be a holiday resort well suited to families or groups of friends travelling on a budget wanting sun, sea and cheap food. There are plenty of very reasonable accommodation options, British food and pubs and stunning beaches. It does get very crowded in this region though with the beaches packed by 10 am. The region is largely characterised by numerous small scenic coves and sandy beaches. In addition the namesake of the region, Cala d’Or beach, there are many more worth exploring: Cala Gran, Cala Petita, Cala Ferrera, Cala Egos, Cala Esmeralda, Cala Serena, Cala Galera and Cala d’es Forti. There are beaches for all tastes and quieter areas for those who prefer a more relaxed break. We stayed in Cala Gran which is one of the bigger towns and home to the most beautiful beach in the area. It is a great place to base yourself to visit the nearby national park and town of Santanyí.

WHAT TO SEE

Drach Caves: : Popular tourist attraction in Porto Cristo, the caves are famous for it’s stalactites, stalagmites, and amazing Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world. Visitors can explore Black Cave, White Cave, Cave of Luis Salvador and Cave of the French on foot. It typically takes about an hour and tiockets are €17 for adults, €11 for children.

The beaches! I have listed the best beaches in Mallorca here on another blog post, many of them are concentrated around this area and within a 25 minute drive from Cala Gran. Some of our favourite beaches in this area worth visiting are:

Cala Gran. A large beach with crystal clear water, plenty of beach bars nearby and options for hiring sun loungers. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in my option. It gets very busy though so best to come early (before 10 am).

Cala Llombards: There’s a reason everyone loves Cala Llombards. It’s ridiculously beautiful. The water color is a particular shade of blue, the prettiest on the island. And the sandy beach, sunbathing rocks, boathouses and swim ladders give the cala so much character. Arrive early to enjoy the beach before it gets busy, but even with crowds, it’s a great place to spend the day. The car park gets full early on too so another reason to aim to arrive before 11 am during the summer.

Cala S’Almunia: This beach is a must-visit while on Mallorca. A craggy crack in the coastline has formed two small coves where beachgoers flock for sunbathing, cliff jumping, swimming and boathouse vibes. It’s also a five-minute walk to Calo des Moro via a coastal trail, so easy enough to visit both in one day. You can jump through this hole into the sea and climb back out. I recommend water shoes for this as it is painful and very rocky climbing out barefoot.

Calo Des Moro: Calo des Moro is a stunning inlet along the island’s southeast coastline. Admire the breathtaking view from atop, and then it’s a short hike down to reach the water. The beach itself is surprisingly small. And depending on the tide, there might be little to no sand at all, in which case beachgoers claim rocks and boulders for sunbathing. It was so windy the day we visited and the tide was in so it was impossible to get a spot on the sand to lie out. This another one of those places that is extremely popular (no surprises there) so I recommend going early!

Es Trenc: Not exactly in the Cala Gran area but it is well worth a visit to this stunning National Park. I think this beach is the best on Mallorca and so different from the island’s other narrow rocky enclaves. A trip out to Es Trenc takes 45 minutes from Cala d’Or and 50 minutes from Palma and you need a car. The road is very windy and narrow to the National Park. You must pay for parking also. Es Trenc is a long sandy beach on Mallorca’s south coast. It’s an endless stretch of powder white sand and a seascape of vibrant blue water, but no facilities except one beach bar. There is also no shade to be found so bring an umbrella.

Hire a boat: There are plenty of companies around the Cala d’Or port offering boat charters with and without a licence, jet skiing and dolphin spotting boat tours.

WHERE TO STAY

$ Prinsotel Alba & Spa: Set metres away from Cala gran beach, this recently renovated holiday complex offers modern basic rooms and good value for money. Buffet breakfast is included and there is free parking onsite.

$$ Melia Cala d’Or Boutique Hotel: Meliá Cala d’Or offers a bit more luxury than the plethora of self catering apartments in the area. Just a few minutes walk from Cala Gran beach, this hotel has three restaurnts on site, a gym and two pools. Room rates include free access to the spa and gym. Rooms start from €170 a night in low season.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

Cala d’Or is full of restaurants and bars, we struggled to find an authentic Spanish experience in the town so we drove out 20 minutes from the town one night for dinner and it was so worth it. Here are our favourite picks from the region.

Can Trompe: Located in a classic Ibizan style building in the old town of Cala d’Or, decorated with noble woods and rustic furniture. Can Trompe offers an authentic Spanish cusine with a lovely outdoor terrace. The paella here is excellent. In recommend booking ahead in summer months.

Pura Vida: Al fresco dining on seafood & steak in a clifftop venue with ocean views & a swimming pool. This German owned restaurant, bistro and bar in one is the perfect place to enjoy dinner whilst watching the sunset. The menu is varied and good value for the high quality service and spectacular views.

Il Pizzettaro Mallorca Cala d’Or: Definitely the pizza in Cala D’Or, if not in Mallorca. Amazing woodfire pizzas and tiramisu and such great value.

I hope you found this guide to Mallorca useful! If yes, don’t forget to follow along my adventures on Instagram (@irishontherun).