About Majorca
Situated off the eastern coast of Spain to the south of Barcelona and east of Valencia, Majorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and receives the majority of visitors. The island measures more than 60 miles across and has a residential population of over 600,000 inhabitants, with the summertime population swelling to about two million at any one time due to the mass influx of tourists.
Majorca is mainly loved for its sublime weather and beautiful beaches, and with resorts scattered around its shores, there are more than 200 beaches to choose from. The interior of the island consists mainly of plains, while the northwest is given over to the Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains, which reach heights in excess of 1,500 metres, and the southwest is heavily developed.
Majorca is one of Spain’s autonomous regions and its capital, Palma de Majorca (Palma), is also capital of the Balearics. Palma is the cultural and historical heart of Majorca, with a picturesque harbour overlooked by a huge and magnificent Gothic cathedral and a swathe of other incredible buildings spread throughout the city.
Other sights in Palma include: l’Almudaina Palace, originally an Arab fortress that sits opposite the cathedral; the 10th century Arab baths, with their huge columns, intricate dome and lovely gardens and the Llotja exchange. Palma is also much revered for its wonderful ambience, quality shops and arcades, and amazing nightlife that never seems to sleep.
Not far from Palma are the hugely popular beach resorts of Magaluf and Palma Nova, which are the real draw of Majorca and offer an endless array of entertainment options, both in the daytime and at night. There are also some exclusive resorts, like low key Illetas, nearby; while Santa Ponça is just over the headland to the west.
Other popular resort areas with beaches include the large resort of Alcudia in the north of Majorca, a year round family orientated resort with comprehensive facilities, excellent hotels and plenty of historical sightseeing. Sharing the same bay is the German resort of C’an Picafort, while in the other direction is the bustling resort of Puerto Pollenca and the nearby Cap de Formentor, with its pretty coves and abundant wildlife.
The east coast of Majorca is marked with numerous coves and bays, or calas, as these are known locally, and this coast also attracts a sizeable number of holidaymakers. The major developments here include popular Cala Millor and adjoining Cala Bona; nearby Sa Coma; Porto Cristo and the stylish resort of Cala d’Or.
Majorca’s appeal also lies in its beautiful interior, namely the villages and landscapes of the western slopes of the jagged Sierra de Tramuntana. Valldemossa, Deia and Soller are the key highlights of this region, with their lofty settings, spectacular views, fabulous buildings and feeling of retreat. La Cartuja (Carthusian monastery) is Valldemossa’s major attraction, while Deia is noted for its fine eateries and the inspiration it provides to lovers of the arts.
Lying just off the south and southeast coasts of Majorca are the national marine parks of Sa Dragonera and Cabrera respectively. These beautiful islands are a haven for some impressive wildlife, both in and out of the water, and offer respite from the tourist hordes, as well as great hiking.
Best time to visit
During the high season in July and August beaches become crowded and hotels must be booked well in advance. The sun is also at its hottest at this time, while the shoulder season months of May, June, September and October are significantly cooler and prices are lower. Many places close during November and April, but the sun still shines and again, prices drop considerably.
Getting to Majorca and around
Palma de Majorca International Airport (or Son Sant Joan Airport) lies to the southeast of Palma and receives Europe wide flights, including many budget airline options from the UK. Getting to Palma from the airport is simple, with excellent bus services and plentiful taxis that run to most points around the island. Hiring a car is a must for anyone serious about touring Majorca.
Majorca has two narrow gauge rail lines; one that connects the centre to Inca and a tourist train that runs from Palma through the mountains to Soller and its striking port and beach area.
