Majorca tours
Majorca tours are a great way to see the island’s attractions, from the busy resorts of the southwest and northeast to the magnificent Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains and the calas (bays) of the east coast. The best and most comprehensive Majorca tours are made by car as attractions can be spread out, although buses do frequent the busier tourist spots.
The following are some suggested itineraries for Majorca tours by car from Palma:
The West coast Palma–Soller-Palma loop
The first major sights you will come to on this route are the party resorts of Palma Nova and Magaluf which are the island’s two biggest attractions, with their long, sweeping bays and electric nightlife. Santa Ponça is the next major resort over the promontory heading west and boasts a rich history.
There are several other secluded coves worth seeking out in this large bay including those of Paguera, Fornells and Camp de Mar, while when you head inland the town of Andraitx is very attractive. From here care should be taken negotiating the windy roads to the coastal town of Estellencs with its steep, winding streets and lush orchards.
Continue through the scenic town of Bañalbufar on to Valldemossa, one of Majorca’s most endearing towns famed for its association with Chopin, who spent time here while trying to overcome tuberculosis. The Carthusian monastery is the main sight here, second in greatness only to Palma’s cathedral.
Continuing north, Deia is the next major stop on the loop and is not only the former home of the poet Robert Graves, but also is renowned as one of the island’s most picturesque towns to dine in, offering spectacular sea views from the church. Staying on the same road north you will come to Soller, lying in a fertile basin and backed by the jagged and imposing peaks of the Sierra de Tramuntana.
The town basks in orange orchards and olive groves and Puerto Sóller, about three miles to the north, is very popular. The drive back to Palma from here is quick and if you have time you can stop off at the Jardins d'Alfàbia (Arabic Gardens) or the Muslim town of Raixa.
North, Palma-Formentor-Alcudia-Palma loop
Heading out of Palma towards Soller, you will reach the beautiful palace and former Muslim residence, Jardins d'Alfàbia, before you arrive at the pretty mountain town. If you continue on from Soller, you will reach the wonderful villages of Biniarix and Fornalutz.
After leaving the Soller area, the Pollenca beaches are the next big attraction, while Cape Formentor occupies the peninsular north of here (Majorca’s northernmost point) and is an area of numerous secluded coves and a haven for wildlife.
South of Cape Formentor is Alcudia, the north’s foremost beach resort, with
a fantastic setting on the huge Alcudia Bay. The town boasts some architectural and historical gems, and the beaches are very clean and safe for kids. As you head back towards Palma, Inca lies midway and is famed for its huge market.
If you don’t have a car and want to go to Soller, the narrow gauge railway leaves Palma four times a day and winds its way through the mountains to the picturesque town on a remarkable and unforgettable journey.
The East Coast Manacor-Calas loop
Out of Palma on the C715, Manacor is the first real place of interest, although the town itself is not much to look at. Manacor is a producer of jewellery, particularly of artificial pearls that look good, but are expensive. From Manacor, head northeast and cut across to the coast on the PM403 to Cala Millor. There are calas up and down the east coast and many are undeveloped and secluded.
Cala Millor is the busiest resort on the east coast and is sandwiched by quieter Cala Bona to the north and Sa Coma to the south. To the south, Porto Cristo is famed for its impressive Cuevas del Drac (Dragon Caves), while Cala d’Or, south of here, is the chicest of the eastern calas; route C717 leads back to Palma from Cala d’Or.
Walking tours
Walking and hiking Majorca tours in the Sierra de Tramuntana where you can climb Puig de Massanella (one of Majorca’s loftiest peaks) or walk the bridal path near Deia are really popular outside the high season.
City tours
Palma is loaded with architectural treasures and a half day or full day tour of this city is completely warranted; not all of Majorca’s pleasures are at the beach!
