Resort Guides
Alcudia
Alcudia is made for family holidays, with great attractions for parents and plenty for children of all ages. The beach is the finest on the island, with no less than 11 kilometres of soft, white sand shelving so gently into the blue Mediterranean it is as safe for the toddlers as a paddling pool. At night Alcudia comes alive with its many bars and discos and it is worth noting that the discos, although lively, are not outrageous, so the older kids can have their fun while you have peace of mind.
Transfer approximately 1 hr 15 mins from Palma Airport.
Cala d'Or
This is one of the most picturesque towns of the south eastern coast. It is an area of pine-fringed headlands deeply indented by narrow coves. Cala d Or today is a modern purpose built resort that has grown from a small traditional Mallorcan fishing village. Over the years the resort has expanded, and now covers an area of over 4km of small sandy coves and creeks. Although in all fairness this growth has for the most part been controlled the town still has the feeling of a small village with few, if any, high rise buildings. A huge amount of shops situated at the centre of the resort provide all your holiday needs, with plenty of expensive boutiques and leather shops. Daytime activities tend to be spent sunbathing on the beach, while high class bars and discos around the marina and central area, ensure that there is plenty of action if that is what you are looking for. Cala d Or boasts a magnificent marina and also an 18 hole golf course as well as many other sports facilities.
Transfer approximately 1 hr 15 mins and 50 GBP from Palma Airport.
Cala Millor
Cala Millor offers something for all the family. The soft, white sandy beach stretches almost a mile long and slopes gently into the sea, and is ideal for children. The sandy beach is backed by a promenade perfect for walking, cycling, browsing the gift shops or taking refreshments in one of the many cafes, bars or restaurants. An attractive feature is the long, traffic free promenade that will take you all the way to the fishing harbour at Cala Bona. This is the east coasts liveliest resort and has plenty of shops, bars, restaurants and discos, in addition to lots of sporting activities. Most of the British bars offer night-time entertainment like quizzes, bingo, race nights, karaoke, Play Your Cards Right, plus live entertainers.
Transfer approximately 1 hr 30 mins and 55 GBP from Palma Airport.
Calas de Mallorca
On the east coast and perched on a cliff top with stunning sea views is Calas de Mallorca. It is a modern, self-contained resort ideal for a quieter holiday and is named after the series of small caves that dot the coastline.
For beach lovers, Calas de Majorca has three small sandy coves called Cala Antena, Cala Domingos Grans and Cala Domingos Petis, all of which offer the usual selection of pedalos and water sports to choose from. The sea is clear and deep blue, and there is a selection of sandy coves, although many people prefer to laze around by the pool. Throughout the day, and well into the evenings during the summer months, the Calas Express road train runs between the beaches, or alternatively you can always take the coastal path which is cut into the cliffs, only if you are feeling particularly energetic. There are a few live music bars and even a couple of discos, but the nightlife in Calas de Mallorca is generally fairly low-key. Porto Cristo, a neighbouring resort to Calas de Mallorca offers several good restaurants overlooking the harbour.
Transfer approximately 1 hour 45 mins and 65 GBP from Palma Airport.
Illetas
Illetas is a very exclusive resort on the south coast of Majorca, west of the capital, Palma and the airport. Palma is the nearest resort and has a chic and upmarket flavour, it is a must see either by day or night and is surprisingly easy to get to via public transport. Illetas is just off the main coastal road and very easy to miss, which just adds to its charm. Illetas itself has a limited choice of shops and day time activities are mainly centred around the beach area below the cliffs where there are several hidden coves to be discovered. Accommodation here does not fall below the 4 star standard, which is aimed very strongly at professional couples and families looking for the cultural aspects of nearby Palma.
Transfer approximately 15 mins and 10 GBP from Palma Airport.
Magaluf
Magaluf is situated on the islands south coast, at the western end of Palma Bay right next door to the resort of Palma Nova. The resort has fine sandy beaches as well as numerous shops, bars, restaurants and fast food outlets. This is the area with most infrastructure and complementary services. It is practically a small holiday town, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The nightlife during the summer season can only be described as lively, with a wide selection of clubs and bars open till the early hours. During the day there is still plenty to do, with mini-golf, water parks, boat trips and many more activities on offer which make Magaluf the perfect location for an exciting holiday. The beach is approximately 900 metres long, and it is one of the biggest British tourist beaches on the island. Water-skiing, pedalos, sailing, boat trips and parasailing are all available from the beach. Many families take holidays in the resort area of Magaluf, although the nightlife during summer can be heavily dominated by a younger, lively crowd.
Transfer approximately 20 mins and 20 GBP from Palma Airport.
Palma
Palma is the capital of Majorca and is the economic and cultural hub however the depth of history, culture and nightlife here often takes visitors by surprise. Located on the south coast of Majorca, it also forms an important holiday resort and commercial port. Since the 1930's Palma has been a playground for millionaires', counting royalty and Hollywood stars are among its regular visitors. In the 21st century it is still courting the smart set with an ever-growing raft of luxury hotels and restaurants. The old town of Palma spreads out from the cathedral and is a maze of narrow streets, flanked by ancient mansions and hidden squares. The cathedral, the Palace of Almudaina, the fish market and Plaza Mayor are some of the places where visitors have to stop. Fishing boats, pine groves and palm trees complement the most beautiful monuments. Palma has some excellent beaches, Can Pastilla and Cala Mayor are the most popular. It has excellent restaurants and bars, many of which lie just west of the Palau de l'Almudaina in Sa Llotja. The Casino-Palladium, along the coast by Magaluf, is a glitzy venue for dining, gambling, watching shows and spectaculars.
Transport approximately 15 mins and 10 GBP from Palma Airport.
Palma Nova
The busy resort of Palma Nova is located on the south west coast of the island and has the equally busy resort of Magaluf as its immediate neighbour, both offer a wide choice of activities for holidaymakers of all ages ... it isn't just for the young as many people believe. Palma Nova is very marginally the quieter, and is perhaps more suited to families. It has fine sandy beaches along with water sports, glass bottom boat trips, as well as countless shops, bars and restaurants, all located along the wide traffic free promenades. There is a giant water-park at adjacent Magaluf, a wild west theme park, a go-kart track and a short distance away is a marine park featuring dolphins and sea lions. The original fishing harbour still remains, but fishing boats are now in the minority when compared to the large expensive yachts that are moored in the nautical club and marina. The commercial centre of Palma Nova is sprinkled with convenience stores, souvenir shops, gift shops, electrical goods stores, and clothing outlets. Palma Nova does not have any nightclubs but the bars stay open fairly late, if you are looking for something a bit livelier Magaluf is only a short walk or taxi ride away.
Transfer approximately 30 mins and 25 GBP from Palma Airport.
Porto Colom
Porto Colom is located on the eastern coast of the island where the coastline is a little rockier and the fine sandy beaches are backed by pine tree woods. Porto Colom was the port for the nearby town of Felanitx and is now a thriving holiday resort. It still remains a small traditional fishing village that has so far resisted full scale tourist commercialisation. The main feature of the town is the large natural harbour, which is the home to a number of small fishing boats. From the harbour looking inland on a clear day, it's also possible to see the Sanctuary of Sant Salvador in the distance. The picturesque coastline is best viewed from the sea, to appreciate the plethora of small coves with fine white sand that are tucked into the rocks. Cala Marçal has fine sands with some rocky areas, it is deep rather than wide and amenities include sunbeds, parasols, pedaloes and a changing room. There is a selection of seafront restaurants and tapas bars around the resort, along the beach road and near the harbour. Mostly local cuisine is served, although some places do cater to German and British tastes. Nightlife is centred around the bars and a couple of discos.
Transfer approximately 1 hour 30 mins and 55 GBP from Palma Airport.
Puerto Pollensa
Puerto Pollensa is an established resort with several hotels dating back to pre-war years and a port which has succeeded in keeping much of its character. Located in the north east of the island Puerto Pollensa is a picturesque resort with a soft sandy beach and pleasant harbour area. This resort has everything - wonderful scenery, beautiful sandy beaches and a laid-back friendly atmosphere. The sheltered horseshoe shaped bay is set against the stunning backdrop of the Tramuntana mountain range. A variety of restaurants overlook the marina and across the sea, which is great for a relaxing meal. There is no shortage of places to eat and drink, in fact there are well over 100 cafes and restaurants. While Puerto Pollensa may not be a shopping mecca as such, it is very adequately supplied with shops and boutiques catering to the tourist trade. A greater variety is available at the busier neighbouring resort of Alcudia.
Transfer approximately 1 hour 15 mins and 60 GBP from Palma Airport.
Santa Ponsa
A popular family resort with a good balance of both beach and nightlife, also popular with golfers too as there are a number of courses in the area. The beautiful bay occupies the full width of the gulf and has been extended with imported sand in recent years. There are one or two other smaller, secluded beaches dotted along the coastline. Daytime entertainment is centred around either the beach or hotel pools, meanwhile nightlife is adequately catered for by bars, discos and clubs along with plenty of restaurants. Santa Ponsa is well blessed with many restaurants and good quality cafes offering a wide choice of local Majorcan, Spanish, Chinese, Italian, Indian and, of course, good old fashioned home cooking. Not exactly shoppers paradise, but good choice of small outlets and stalls, including clothes, beach wear and accessories, arts and crafts, souvenirs and jewellery shops and a few designer outlets.
Transfer approximately 35 mins and 30 GBP from Palma Airport.
Weather in Majorca
Majorca has an ideal climate for holidaymakers with little rain and average temperatures kept below 30ºC (86ºF) even in mid summer. Average temperatures in the summer is around 26ºC (79ºF) with July and August generally the hottest months. Temperatures remain nice in the spring and autumn, even during the winter it is sunny enough to wear short sleeves. During the winter months the average temperatures is about 15ºC (59ºF) and rarely drops below 10º (50ºF). Rain is more likely at this time of the year although you would be unlucky to get more than one rainy day as on average there are 300 days of sunshine per year.
Majorca
Beaches
Beaches are the best touristic lure for the people coming to the island. The crystal clear beaches, the warm temperature of the water and the heat in the coasts are the reasons why Majorca is one of the main touristic destinations in the summer.
The sunny island of Mallorca has almost 80 excellent beaches with fine, golden sand and they stretch for about 50 kilometres. The majority of the beaches especially the larger ones offer various facilities including bars, restaurants, cafes, shops, showers, sun loungers, parasols, etc. Water sports are widely available but again there is more on offer in the larger resorts.
There are many other more private, secluded beaches and coves in Majorca, although these can prove more difficult to reach. Cala Mondrago on the south-eastern tip of the island is great for a secluded escape with two big sandy coves but you will need a map to locate it. Es Trenc is the largest unspoilt beach on the islands and is 3.5 kilometres long. The beach is flat with fine white sand and turquoise Caribbean-like water. The only downside is that there are no washrooms or showers. El Mago is one of the three nudist beaches in Majorca and is situated in a secluded bay.
Some of the best beaches in Majorca include: Palma Nova beach located on the Badia de Palma which has dense greenery surrounding the beach, an excellent base for families. The flat, safe and clean beach is right in the middle of the resort and the shoreline is packed with cafes and shops. Portals Vells is another popular family sandy beach. In the sandy bays with turquoise water there are numerous caves to explore. Cala Llamp is the perfect place for snorkelling but not suitable for small children. There is no sandy beach but a sea water pool. The sandy beach of Puerto Pollensa with its shady promenade is long and offers a wide choice of sport activities. It is said to be one of the finest wind surfing areas on the island.
During the summer, most beaches in Mallorca have lifeguards, along with swimming areas marked by buoys. There are usually notice boards at the entrances to the beaches listing the facilities available, such as showers and wheelchair access. Smaller beaches in Mallorca do not have lifeguards, but swimming is usually safe and the beaches are generally sited in small coves with calm waters. Boat trips are available from several of the jetties along the beach, kiosks selling the tickets are easily located along the promenade.
Top 10 Attractions of the Area
Castillo de Bellver - The round hilltop castle built in 1309 was the summer residence of the kings of Majorca during the short period in which the island had a Royal family and also served as a prison. Looking up at this castle, so perfectly maintained, it is hard to believe that it has been standing for almost 700 years. Close to the harbour, this stunning castle is one of the most spectacular Gothic castles in Europe and highlights include spectacular views of the bay, an inner courtyard, three tall towers, a moat and a museum, with many archaeological artefacts and old coins. For the full effect, walk around the moat then climb onto the roof and look down into the courtyard to compare the contrasting styles. While you are there, look out over the city and the bay for one of the best views in Palma (Bellver meant 'lovely view' in ancient Catalan).
Catedral de Palma de Mallorca - Any visitors approaching Palma by sea cannot help but be impressed, even astonished, by the graceful Gothic cathedral as it gradually emerges into view. The magnificent Catalonian Gothic cathedral is a landmark of the city, standing in the old town overlooking the ocean. One night in 1229, as Jaime I was on his way to recapture Majorca, his fleet was struck by a terrible storm. He vowed then there to the Virgin Mary that if he survived nature's fury, he would erect a church in her honour. And after the storm had blown over, finding himself safe and sound, he immediately undertook the project. It was a vow that was to take an inordinate amount of time to fulfil, he began in 1230 and the cathedral was finished in 1601. Anything you see inside Palma cathedral will come as a disappointment once you have stood on the seafront and gazed up at its golden sandstone exterior climbing above the old city walls.
Alcudia (Old Town) - The ancient town of Alcudia, not to be confused with the modern resort two miles (3km) to its south, has a fascinating and turbulent history. The Spanish sensibly fortified the city; its massive city walls date from this era. Alcudia old town is surrounded by walls that date from the 14th century and consists of compact rows of narrow streets, visitors still enter the narrow streets of the old town through one of the two gates, which are guarded by large towers. Near the town, at Polentia, is a well preserved Roman amphitheatre and the Orator de Santa Anna, one of Mallorca's oldest churches.
LLuc - About 20 miles (32km) beyond Soller in the north of the island, is the remote mountain village of Lluc, in a valley that has been an important place of pilgrimage since the 13th century. Lluc became Mallorca's most sacred site when a shepherd boy discovered a dark wooden statue of the Virgin in a cleft in the rock. The miraculous statue returned to its cave three times after being placed in the local church. Now the statue, known as La Moreneta, has been encrusted with precious stones and presides in its own chapel, receiving pilgrims and tourists who come to pay homage each day. On Sundays a traditional boys' choir gives a concert at 11am in the monastery complex where the statue resides.
Pollensa (Old Town) - The Old Town of Pollensa lies approximately ten minutes drive inland from the coast and is a peaceful old town that has been largely unaffected by tourism.. Here you will find charming narrow cobbled streets, pretty squares and old-world architecture. The town was established a few miles inland to protect against any sudden pirate attacks; its harbour, Puerto Pollensa, was left as an unprotected outpost. Today the port has grown into a popular family resort. Some of Pollensa's medieval centre remains around the Plaça Major, the main square, including the church of Nostra Senyora dels Àngels. Just north of the square is the Via Crucis (Way of the Cross), a long stone stairway, bordered by ancient cypress trees. At the top, in a small chapel, is a much-revered statue of Mare de Déu del Peu de la Creu (Mother of God at the Foot of the Cross).
Soller - One of Majorca's best adventures for all ages is to take a ride in the old-fashioned narrow-gauge train from Palma to the mountain town of Sóller. The rattling single-track train passes through almond, lemon and orange groves and through mountains along the way. At the pretty town of Sóller passengers transfer to an even more ramshackle tram for a three-mile journey down to the picture-postcard bay of Port de Sóller with its waterfront bars and cafés. The town is awash with tempting pastry shops, ice-cream parlours and tapas bars in its quaint squares, but there is more to do than just eat and drink. There are some good examples of modernist architecture, like the church of Saint Bartomeu with its 1912 arched tower above a rose window, and needle-like spires. There are also two museums: the Natural Science Museum displaying fossils and the Museu Municipal filled with antiques.
Valldemossa - The small town in the mountains where Mallorcan tourism began one cold, damp winter in 1838. Tabloid gossip has turned the monastery in the small town of Valldemossa, on the west coast, into a tourist attraction. In 1838 Frederic Chopin arrived with his lover hoping to get away from the gossip of their relationship in Paris and in hope that the climate would help with his tuberculosis. He rented a former monk's cell, however the shocked locals shunned them, and the couple were so unhappy that their relationship never recovered from the wet, windy and miserable winter in the monastery. Today the cells occupied by the lovers are open to visitors. It is a cool place and in the winter you get snow from time to time. All the houses have a small ceramic plate at the main entrance saying: Beata, pray for us!
Cuevas del Drach - A visit to Majorca would not be complete without a trip to the natural wonder known as the Cuevas of Drach (Caves of the Dragon). They are located at the southern end of Porto Cristo and were discovered in 1896. The caves may not be the largest on the island but they are certainly the most impressive and the most commercialised. Cuevas del Drach is the most famous and best visited cave on Mallorca. The reasons are probably its outstanding features, like the wealth of speleothems and the impressive underground lake. There are numerous stalactites and stalagmites of pure white colour. The highlight of the tour is classical musicians playing from boats on a large underground lake.
Deia - Deya is one of the jewels of the Mediterranean, one of those places that the visitor will never forget - the colours, the smells and the sounds. An idyllic village of green-shuttered, orhre-coloured houses has become a millionaires' hideaway in the shadow of the Teix mountain. The quaint town of Deià with its bohemian feel has attracted a large number of artists, writers and musicians over the years. The village of Deià, with its houses tumbling down a hillside, was once renowned as an artists' and poets' retreat, where the likes of poet Robert Graves and artist Joan Miró worked. The town's main street is lined with artists' workshops and galleries selling locally produced work.
Marineland - Don't miss the Marineland one of Majorca's most popular tourist attractions and the only amusement park in the Balearic islands to feature performing dolphins and sea lions. Other attractions here include the largest collection of sharks in the whole of Europe, a parrot circus, aquariums, crocodiles and a reptile zoo with large snakes. The park has a good breeding program and has successfully bred many of the animals in Marineland, including dolphins and sea lions. The park is located at Calvia's Costa d'en Blanes beach. This wonderful marine zoo is backed by 35 years of history in entertainment, education, research and interconnection with nature. The internationally awarded Dolphin Shows are the park's top attraction, along with the Sea Lion and Parrot Shows.
Shopping
The Balearic islands provide excellent shopping, which is so typical of Spain. The island of Majorca is no exception and is full of many popular shops and markets, selling a wide range of merchandise. Majorca has a large number of small, interesting shops that offer a wide range of souvenirs, and also many larger stores. The larger shops in Majorca usually open from 09:00 to 21:00, particularly in the tourist centres. Some shops in Majorca do close between 14:00 to 17:00, for the Spanish afternoon siesta. The numerous beachfront shops stay open until late at night and during the high season, most shops in Majorca open seven days a week. El Corte Ingles (leading department store in Spain), Pryca, and the Gigante chain of supermarkets, open throughout the day Monday to Saturday.
Markets have become an important part of life in Majorca and are held at weekly intervals, mainly in the provincial towns and villages. Most markets in Majorca are held in the morning. The larger markets all follow a similar pattern - fresh produce around the main square, specialist food stall is fanning out from there, then cheap clothes, household goods and craft stalls for the tourists. The markets offer a wonderful opportunity to try local specialities in Majorca. Most markets in and around Majorca tend to sell a little of everything, although Majorca does have a few specialist markets. Some of the Majorca markets are held every day during the island's high season. Be sure to barter as it makes that bargain even more satisfying and the locals will expect it.
Markets that take place weekly in Majorca are (the main ones are highlighted):
Monday: - Caimari, Calvia, Lloret, Manacor, Montuiri, Soller.
Tuesday: - Alcudia, Arenal, Arta, Campanet, Llubi, Pina, Porreres, Santa Margalida, Soller, Can Pastilla
Wednesday: - Arenal, Andratx, Capdepera, Colonia St. Jordi, Lluchmayor, Petra, Puerto Pollensa, Santanyi, Selva, Sencelles, Sineu, Soller, Villafranca.
Thursday: - Arenal, Ariany, Can Pastilla, Campos, Ciutadella, Consell, Inca, Portol, Ses Salines, San Joan, San Lloret, Soller
Friday: - Alaro, Algaida, Binissalem, Can Picafort, Lluchmayor, Maria de Salud, Es Pont Inca, Son Carrio, Soller, Son Servera, Palma am Plaza Mayor
Saturday: - Burger, Bunyola, Cala Ratjada, Costix, Esporles, Lloseta, Santa Eugenia, Sta. Margalida, Santanyi, Soller, Palma am Plaza Mayor
Sunday: - Alcudia, Binissalem, Felanitx, Lluchmayor, Muro, Sa Pobla, Santa Maria, Valldemossa, Pollensa, Porto Cristo
Palma in Mallorca has the highest concentration of shops on the island and there are many outlets that cater for most visitors to Majorca. These include factory shops selling souvenirs, shops selling casual clothes, specialist centres for pottery and ceramics, local shops selling handicrafts such as embroidery, basketwork, wooden bowls, hand-painted plates, and high-quality simulated pearls, which are widely associated with Mallorca. With the atmosphere you get round the little squares and streets shopping in Mallorca couldn't be more fun and enjoyable. There is a very relaxed shopping atmosphere around Mallorca. The main shopping areas of Avinguda Jaume III and Passeig des Born are perfect for up-market boutiques and the pedestrian streets around Placa Major for small specialist shops.
Getting Around
The best way to get around the island is by car, and there are several rental companies throughout Majorca. Make sure there are no hidden extras by asking for the final price before you agree anything. In order to hire a car in Majorca you need to be over 23 years of age, hold a full driving licence from your country of residence, and have two years driving experience. When driving in Majorca there are a few things you need to remember:
- the centre of the road should always be on the driver's side
- stick to the speed limits as the police are very tough and give on the spot fines
- it is illegal to use a mobile phone whilst driving
- the breathalyser limit is half of that in the UK
For all vehicles over 50 cc a valid driving licence is required. You will also need to produce your passport for insurance registration purposes. Helmets are supplied by the hire company and are usually included in the price.
An efficient bus system connects Palma with all main towns and resorts, most of the buses leave from Placa d'Espanya. The local bus service is excellent around the southern resorts, but not so reliable if you want to travel further a field. Bus timetables are available but don't always run to time, unless you are in a hurry the best option is to sit and wait patiently whilst enjoying the glorious weather.
There are also two train lines running from Plaça de Espanya in Palma: one goes to Sóller on the northwest coast; the other inland to Inca. A third train connects Inca with Sa Pobla. The train to Soller is more of a tourist attraction, both tourists and locals alike have been making this journey now for the past 90 years in the vintage brass and mahogany carriages that are a trademark of this train, whilst admiring the breathtaking scenery en-route. The train to Inca is a little more commercial, and a little less scenic.
The best way to see the coastline and reach some of the remoter coves which are inaccessible by road, is by boat. Palma and the major resorts and beaches around the island are also connected by numerous boat tours and water-taxi services.
If you want to island-hop around the Balearics, there are (costly) inter-island flights, and ferries, which operate from Palma, Port d'Alcúdia and Cala Ratjada.
You can get around the island by taxi, but it's quite costly. You'll find prices posted at central points in many towns. Cabs can be hired at ranks (indicated by a blue square with a 'T'), flagged down on the street but only if a green light is on indicating they are available or from your hotel or apartment. Most of the taxi drivers speak English, always ask what the fare is likely to be before getting in. The cabs run on meters, as in the UK, there is a minimum charge of 4 euros and 5 euros at night (although some drivers seem to ignore this). Try to remember the cost increases after 9 pm, on Sundays and Fiesta days. The cabs are only allowed to take a maximum of four passengers.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Majorca depends upon which resort you choose and can vary greatly. The southern resorts tend to be the lively ones, with a wide selection of bars and discos. The northern resorts are a lot quieter in comparison and the main nightlife is centred around bars and restaurants where you can sit out and watch the world go by. Every resort has it fair share of bars and themed venues of every description. Majorca has over 150 discotheques with most of them located within the party resorts of Magaluf and Palma Nova. Most bars also stay open until the early hours of the morning. There is something to entertain everyone on the island from an opera show to an all night disco or a late night movie.
Bars in the main resorts change their names frequently so it is hard to say where the best places are. Generally the best option is to follow the crowd or chat to the locals. There are a large number of British tourist that visit Majorca every year especially Magaluf in the summer months. To cater for this market numerous English style pubs have opened serving all day breakfast, imported beer and showing sport via satellite.
Palma is full of bars and clubs where you can mix with both the young and old locals. Magaluf is the party capital of Majorca and home to Europe's largest and probably loudest disco, BCM. It has laser shows, videos screens, a swimming pool and holds up to 4,000 people. There are two floors, the upper level tends to attract the young trendy crowd, the top floor is where the disco ends and the real clubbing begins. The best popcorn and foam parties are held on the ground floor called Millennium, which is where you will find the over 30's.
A recent arrival in Majorca is themed dinner shows. They can be anything from folklore and flamenco dancing to a medieval banquet complete with jousting and serving wenches. Every night you will see coaches full of tourists coming to enjoy an evening with a difference however be prepared to join in and have fun. One of the most popular evening attractions is the Pirates Adventure, located on the outskirts of Magaluf. It is a Pirate themed dinner show, there are two shows to choose from, one is the family version and the other one is called Pirates Uncut. If you are planning a night out with a difference then Pirates would be the one. Great for all ages with plenty of food and drinks served all night.
Majorca has got a casino if you fancy a different night out or just want to gamble some money. It is located in Cala Vinyas just outside Magaluf. A great location that's easy to reach from Magaluf and Palma Nova by taxi for less then 8 euros.
Eating Out
There are lots of places for you to choose from to eat and drink throughout the island from cafés, bars, take-aways to restaurants. The majority of places tend to be steered towards international food. Authentic local dishes take a bit of finding and are mainly found in smaller restaurants and inland villages. Good local restaurants are really worth tracking down, as owners and menus change all the time the best option is to ask a local for a recommendation. One of the best ways of telling if the restaurant is local is by the cuisine that they serve, local dishes include typical Mallorca soup (sopes mallorquines), roast suckling pig (asados de lechona) or pork with cabbage (lomo con col). The most popular Balearic meat dish is roast pork, which is often served with many different extras. Typical Mallorcan soup is a nourishing blend of vegetables, slices of special bread soaked in the cooking broth, tomatoes, paprika and garlic. In some places they will include chunks of pork. Deserts seem to be standard in most places and include fruit, ice cream or crème caramel but one of the local favourites is a light sweet pastry roll called ensaimada. Traditional Majorcan food makes full use of the islands home grown produce, pork, fish and vegetables.
On the whole eating out in Majorca is generally inexpensive, mainly due to the large amount of competition. There are over 1200 restaurants throughout the island offering all types of food including Mallorcan, Japanese Sushi, Mexican, Italian, Thai, French, Chinese and of course British. Fish lovers will be delighted with the availability and range of fish dishes. The local seafood dishes include caldereta de langosta (lobster stew), cap roig (sea scorpion) and calameres (squid).
Most bottled wine comes from mainland Spain however it is also produced locally, the best local red and white wine is called Binissalem. Popular Spanish beers include San Miguel and Estrella although most bars imported various other brands of beer.
Like in Spain most people tend to eat fairly late and therefore some restaurants may not open until around eight or nine in the evening. In the busier resorts most restaurants open earlier to cater for the tourists. You can always try some tapas with a pre-dinner drink whilst you are waiting to eat dinner.
Sports
There are a wealth of sporting activities to be found on the island of Majorca with something to suit all tastes and pockets. Majorca is a haven for those who enjoy water sports and golf. As Majorca is totally surround by water it makes sense that every water sport going is available on the island. If you are not into partaking in sports but love to watch them you are in the right place. Virtually every bar in town shows live sporting action via satellite so you can enjoy the football whilst drinking an ice cold beer. Spectator sports are available throughout the island and include: traditional bull fighting, cricket, football, greyhound and horse racing.
Golf is a major land based sport in Majorca and there are over 15 courses spread throughout the island. Set in beautiful surroundings these golf courses provide excellent facilities. Son Servera is the second oldest golf course and has a large number of British members. This 9 hole course is challenging and demands accuracy off the tee. Pula Golf is one of the island's most exclusive courses, even though it only opened in 1995 it has already held some prestigious tournaments.
Other land based sporting activities include: cycling, hiking, walking, tennis, bowls, ten-pin bowling, rock climbing, hang gliding, hot air ballooning, pot hole caving and riding. For information on any of these activities just ask at reception upon arrival or visit the local tourist office.
Water lovers are cater for well in Majorca. Sailing is the most popular of water sports with several high profiled events taking place throughout the year. Boats can be chartered for a period of days or weeks, or even by the hour on the beach in some resorts. Majorca is an excellent place for a beginner to learn windsurfing due to the conditions not being too extreme. There are various shops that hire out equipment and offer lessons. Other popular water sports include: scuba diving (you must have a diving certificate for deeper waters although course are available) snorkelling (cheaper version of seeing the enormous amount of sealife just below the surface), fishing, wakeboarding, water-skiing, jet-skiing, water bikes, paragliding from speedboats, rubber rafting and sea kayaking.
For the Family
Mallorcans love and indulge children so you can take children anywhere like in most Spanish and Mediterranean resorts. Majorca is well geared up for family holidays with lots of things to see and do. The safe sandy beaches offer shallow water and most have lifeguards. Apart from spending time in the pool, at the beach or meeting new friends there are plenty of family orientated places to visit throughout Majorca.
Here is a selection of places to visit, appealing to both adults and children:
Aqualandia/El Foro de Mallorca (Binissalem) - children's paradise has a bit of everything. A water park, swimming, adventure playground, crazy golf and waxworks museum.
Aquapark (Magaluf) - there are pools, slides, a 'water castle' and exciting rides at this long-established waterpark situated on the edge of town.
Hidropark (Port d'Alcudia) - a water based theme park with activities for every young children.
Aquacity (S'Arenal) - one of the world's largest water funfairs, with enough thrills and spills to keep you happy all day. In addition to the water slides and wave pool, there is a mini-zoo, as well as a children's farm, parrot shows and an antique typewriter museum.
Auto-Safari (Cala Millor) - drive-round safari park with giraffes, zebra and monkeys plus a 'baby zoo' with young elephants and reptiles born at the zoo. Arrive early to see the animals feeding.
Nemos Submarines (Magaluf) - see the flora and fauna beneath the sea on a 2 hour exploration by mini submarine from Magaluf, although very expensive.
Marineland (Portals Nous) - entertainment here is provided by the performing dolphins, sealions and parrots. There is also a penguin pool, a reptile house and a large collection of sharks and tropical fish, plus flamingos, monkeys and an impressive aviary. Children can take a ride on a mock pirate boat and a miniature train.
Aquarium de Mallorca (Porto Cristo) - Small aquarium with exotic fish from around the world including piranhas and electric eels. Next to the Cuevas de Drach
Magaluf Karting (Magaluf) - Go-kart track beside Aquapark-leave the teenagers here while the younger ones get wet next door.
Golf Fantasia (Palma Nova) - set amid waterfalls, caves and tropical gardens. There is a choice of three different circuits - or you can play all 54 holes. Even adults will enjoy it.
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