Your Guide to Vacationing in Majorca Island, Spain

One of the most popular inclusions that you will find in your Spain tour packages today is Majorca Island, which is a destination, popular for its sunny beaches, towering mountains, and mesmerising landscapes that include everything from modern, well-equipped beaches to wild natural forests and mountain ranges. Majorca Island, Spain boasts of a more than 550 km long coastline, which makes the island no less than paradise for people on the lookout for amazing beaches with crystal-clear waters.

Holidaying in Majorca Island

The largest of the Balearic Islands, Majorca Island is a small Mediterranean haven located off the coast of Valencia. Replete with some of the most impressive landscapes, Majorca Island in Spain is a place where you can hike along a mesmerising coast or head for a trek amidst the mountainous peaks and come across some incomparably beautiful natural wonders. If you are planning a beach vacation and are considering heading to one of Spain’s islands, including Majorca, here’s all you need to know about the island:

• History of the Island
• The Best Beaches in Majorca
• The Natural Wonders of Majorca
• Top Small Towns in Majorca
• Shopping in Majorca
• What to Eat
• Best Time to Visit

History of the Island

One of the Balearic Islands of Spain, Majorca has been inhabited by people from the Middle Ages. In fact, traces have been found that may suggest human inhabitation on the island dating back to around 6000-4000 BC. Majorca of the Balearic Islands of Spain was first occupied by the Carthaginians and in 123 BC, it was captured by the Romans. In 426, was annexed by the Vandal Kingdom and later by the Byzantine Empire in 534. As Christianity started booming in the region, the island was attacked by Muslim raiders from North Africa. In 902, Majorca Island, Spain, was conquered by the Caliphate of Corboda and in 1015, it came under the Taifa of Denia. The island was taken over by King James I of Aragon in 1229, and in the 18th century, as the dynastic union was unified by the Spanish monarchy, Majorca and the Balearic Islands became a part of Spain in 1716.

The Best Beaches in Majorca

Majorca Island, Spain, has more than 260 sandy coastal strips, of which 29 are Blue Flag Beaches, recognised for the exceptional quality of water and commitment towards preserving coastal environs. Whether you are looking for a secluded strip of sand with azure waters lapping at the shore, where you can unwind, or are looking for a livelier beach flanked by sophisticated beach clubs, there’s something for everyone in the islands of Majorca. Some of the beaches that simply must be included in Majorca Island holidays are:

• Es Trenc, with its white sand beach and shallow turquoise waters that are reminiscent of the Caribbean.
• Playa d’ Alcúdia, the largest beach in Majorca, perfect for families with kids.
• Calvia Beach, which is also known as the party centre of Majorca, Spain.
• Platja de Can Pere Antoni, the palm-fringed beach in the capital city.
• Cala Llombards, tucked almost out of sight with a narrow beach and steep cliffs.
• Es Traves and the smaller Playa d’en Repic Beach, both located in the charming Port de Sóller.
• The unspoiled Cala Mondragó in Mondragó National Park.
• Cala Torta, which is known for nude sunbathing.
• Sa Colobra, where you can catch the most amazing sunsets.
• Caló des Màrmols, which is like a slice of paradise away from the crowded beaches and busy resorts of the island.

The Natural Wonders of Majorca

Many people visit Majorca of the Balearic Islands for the many beaches, soaring mountains, and almost forgotten forests. However, the island is also home to some of the most amazing natural wonders that offer adventures as well as amazing photo ops.

• Cap de Formentor, a wind-bashed, wild section of coastline.
• Puig Major, the superlative peak of the Balearic Islands and Majorca, at a height of 1445 metres, riddled with trekking routes and running paths, and offering the most fantastic views.
• Drach Caves, the subterranean system under Majorca Island, Spain.
• Cúber, which is a large manmade body of shimmering mountain water, hiding in the valleys beneath the highest peak of the Balearic Islands, including Majorca.
• Serra de Tramuntana, a mighty wall of stone and rock that rises above the island, dominating its entire north-western part.
• Sa Cova Tancada, for the daring adventure seekers, which requires serios climbing and getting through pine woods as well as steep rock faces just to reach the entrance.
• Cala Sa Nau is a hidden bay located on one of the more off-the-beaten-track inlets on the south-eastern shoreline of the island.
• Mondrago Natural Park, tucked in the southeast corner of the island, full of hidden caves, cliffs, and lagoons for you to explore.
• The Isle of Dragonera that rises out of the Mediterranean Sea, creating the silhouette of a sleeping dragon.

Top Small Towns in Majorca

Most cities in Spain are quite well-known among tourists, and the same holds true for the towns found in Majorca of the Balearic Islands. The small towns of the island exude a quaint old-world charm and are known for their hospitality. You will also be able to find some of the best places to stay in Majorca Island in these towns. With some of the settlements having been around from medieval times, some towns that you can consider adding to your list of what to see in Majorca are:

• Valldemossa
• Deia
• Fornalutx
• Soller
• Banyalbufar
• Santanyí
• Alcúdia
• Capdepera
• Port de Pollença
• Artà

Shopping at Majorca Island, Spain

The best areas for shopping on the Island of Majorca are mainly located near the capital area, Palma. Everything from the latest in high-street fashion to designer labels can be found in this region. The popular shopping streets here include Paseo del Borne and Avenida Jaime III, while there are numerous boutiques like Kidama, Bossa, Miss Zelanea, and Pinko, lining the adjoining alleys. In the area, there are also several local stores, where you can buy traditional crafts and artisan produce that is local to Majorca of the Balearic Islands.

What to Eat

The food and local dishes of Majorca are among the most famous aspects of the island that you should’nt miss. The dishes here use local ingredients and traditional recipes that offer an authentic taste of the local culture. Some of the best local dishes you must try on your trip include:

• Frit Mallorqui
• Coca Mallorquina
• Arros Brut
• Sopas Mallorquinas
• Llom Amb Col
• Lechona Asada
• Tumbet Mallorquín
• Llonguet
• Ensaimada
• Bunyols

Things to Do

Explore the Capital City

No trip to the island can be considered complete without a visit to the capital, Palma. The vibrant, laid-back city is home to high-end shopping, street-side cafes, and brilliant examples of Spanish architecture.

Ride a Wooden Tram

Hop aboard a wooden tram in Port de Soller, a quaint seaside city that is known for its old-world charm.

Visit Bellver Castle

Built in the 14th century, this used to be a stunning castle that was converted into a formidable royal fortress.

Go to the Royal Charterhouse in Valldermossa

Another structure from the 14th century, the Royal Charterhouse is characterised by its high ceilings and lavish art and was a royal residence that was turned into a monastery later and is known for being the winter home of the composer, Frederic Chopin.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Majorca is from the start of the month of July to the middle of the month of September. Majorca has a Mediterranean climate, and the aforementioned months are known for having hot, sunny weather that is quite comfortable for travelling and exploring the sights of the island. The monsoon season generally lasts from the end of September to the end of November, and while it is a slow tourist season, you may be able to get some amazing deals on some of the best places to stay in Majorca.

Majorca Island is truly a paradise for all kinds of travellers and may just be the perfect destination for your next vacation.