Sights of Majorca

09 February 2021

The vacation in Mallorca will definitely be memorable, because the island has many great places to visit, from unique nature reserves to historical sites of different eras and cultures. The fabulous landscapes of natural parks were created as a model for imitation, and in the unique prehistoric caves, you can watch an incredible light and music show.

There are art galleries and museums all over the island, though the main historical sights are located in the capital of Palma de Mallorca, and this is where we will begin our journey around the island.

What to visit in Palma de Mallorca?

The capital of Mallorca has art galleries, museums, nightclubs, and all the main city attractions are concentrated in the city center:

Cathedral of LA SEU CATHEDRAL

A magnificent example of Gothic architecture is the Palma de Mallorca Cathedral. The construction of the temple lasted for several centuries, which was reflected in its appearance. We can observe the Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles in the architecture of the cathedral, and in the 20th century, Antoni Gaudi worked on the temple.

The height of the cathedral is 44 meters, it offers an amazing view of the royal Parc de la Mar and the Mediterranean Sea. There are two museums in the cathedral, one of them houses a unique exhibitor - the ark of the True Cross, and the other one hosts art exhibitions. The temple is open daily from 10:00 to 17:15. Admission is chargeable except on Sundays when the building is free for everyone during the morning service.

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina

Next to the cathedral is the royal palace, which was built by the command of the Muslim wali after the conquest of the island by the Arabs. At the foot of the palace are the royal gardens, where you can enjoy your time by the fountains. Pay attention to the Arch de la Drassana, which once served as the gateway to the royal dock.

Palma de Mallorca Aquarium

Mallorca is home to one of the best aquariums in Europe, it is the oceanarium and the adjacent marine park of Palma de Mallorca. On a huge area of 41 thousand sq. M. there are 55 unique aquariums, where you can get acquainted with more than 700 species of fauna and experience extraordinary emotions when a huge shark swims right over your head.

The tour of the aquarium passes through 5 thematic zones and lasts approximately 4-5 hours. In some sections, you can not only look at the representatives of flora and fauna but even touch them. For example, sea urchin or sea cucumber. By the way, there is a real tropical forest on the roof of the complex. The aquarium is open all year round.

You can end your walk in the capital of Mallorca on the tourist-favorite Mori street with original houses, the windows of which are made of blown glass. The street leads to the square with the oldest church of Palma, Saint Eulalia. For further travel around the island, we recommend renting a car in Mallorca and setting off to the picturesque parks and towns of the island.

What to see in Mallorca?

Natural Park "Galatzo"

We definitely recommend visiting the picturesque Galatzo Park in a mountain valley not far from Palma de Mallorca. It is a very green park with winding paths, numerous waterfalls, and mountain lakes where you can swim. The hills offer a beautiful view of the entire island.

The town of Valldemossa and the Carthusian monastery.

The village of Valldemossa, surrounded by wooded hills, is the destination for stunning views and romantic walks. The town is located about 17 km from the capital of the island. There is also an old Carthusian monastery of the 13th century, where Frederic Chopin and Georges Sand once stayed.

Deia and Fornalutx villages

Ten miles from Valldemossa, on the northern ridge of Mallorca, there is another small settlement that attracts tourists. Ancient stone houses are scattered on the mountainside among olive and orange groves. For traditional Spanish towns with stone houses and cobbled, winding streets, head to the next village of Fornalutx in the scenic Orange Valley.

Randa village and monastery

The village of Randa is located in a mountainous area and is famous for the beautiful panorama of the whole of Majorca. All towns and villages are perfectly visible on a clear day. In addition, you can take an excursion to Puig de Randa with three monasteries. You can meet pilgrims along the way.

Castle of Capdepera and Bellver Castle

You should definitely visit the majestic Castle of Capdepera if you love Gothic architecture. A very narrow road leads to the castle, on which even two cars can difficulty pass by, so be prepared for long walks. Thanks to its rich history, today the castle museum is included in the list of important attractions in Spain.

Be sure to climb the outdoor stairs to the flat roof. The castle towers offer breathtaking views of the city and the sea. And on the rooftop of the Virgen de la Esperanza church, you can enjoy a stunning view of the city. The entrance to the castle is paid.

Another example of Gothic art with an unusual round shape is the Castel de Bellver, located a few kilometers from the capital of Mallorca. The castle is located on a hill with a magnificent view of the panorama of Palma. There is a museum in a castle open to the public.

Caves in Mallorca

One of the most popular excursions in Mallorca is visiting the caves, which in prehistoric times served as a natural habitat and refuge. Now there are 5 caves available on the island for tourists to visit, they are open throughout the year. The visit is possible as part of a small group.

• Cuevas de Campanet caves

They are located in the north of the island at a depth of 50 meters. A 40-minute excursion will not leave you indifferent: a variety of tunnels, stalactites, and stalagmites, and in the limestone deposits, you can find fossil remains of prehistoric animals. It is noteworthy that the Campanet caves have been preserved almost in their natural state.

• Caves Coves del Drac

In the east of the island, there are the largest caves, the length of which is almost two and a half kilometers underground. The peculiarity of these caves is the underground lakes, where concerts of classical music are held every hour under light illumination.

• Cuevas de Artá caves

The Arta Caves are located in the north-east of Mallorca. You will descend to a depth of 45 meters and find yourself in huge halls, each of which has its own name. At the end of the tour, you can enjoy a light and sound performance.

• Caves Cuevas dels Hams

Another beautiful underground lake is located in the Hams caves at a depth of 30 meters. This lake is often called the "Venice Sea". An amazing musical performance also hosts there. And the lake itself is famous for its marvelous shaped stalactites that resemble fabulous trees. During the tour, you can meet prehistoric crustaceans.

• Cuevas de Génova caves

The smallest and most easily accessible caves in Mallorca are located on the south coast of the island and are well suited for excursions with children.

The caves are open to the public every day from 10.00 to 19.00. The entrance is paid, the ticket price is 10-15 euros. It's pretty cool in the cave, the air temperature is about 20 degrees - do not forget to bring a windbreaker.

Cape Formentor in Mallorca

At sunset, the best idea is to head to the picturesque Cape Formentor on Mallorca's north coast. Despite the fact that this is one of the most visited places on the island, buses do not go there and it is also impossible to reach there by foot, so the best option is to travel by car. The lighthouse is located at an altitude of 210 meters above sea level, amazing views of the sea and waves that break against the coastal rocks open up from the observation deck.

Casino Palladium

Not far from Palma de Mallorca is the only casino on the island, the Palladium. Even if you are not a gambling fan, you can have fun in the territory of the complex. There are bars, restaurants and a variety of entertainment options. The entrance is paid, only for persons over 18 years old. There is a dress code: evening dresses for ladies and suits for men.

Entertainment in Mallorca

Let's say you have traveled the whole island and got acquainted with the sights of Mallorca. What else to do on the island?

• Golf

Thanks to the sunny weather and rare rainfall, golf is especially popular here. There are 11 standard golf courses in Mallorca, where only members can train, and about 20 courses available for everyone.

The most difficult golf course, Pule, is located in the north-east of Mallorca and is used for the European Championship.

• Tracking

The scenic views have contributed to the development of hiking in Mallorca. There are a huge number of trails, most of them with impressive views of the coastline. Many trekking guides of any length can be found and downloaded on the internet.

• Rock climbing

The coast of Mallorca is covered with a mountain range with an ideal structure for rock climbing. Routes have been developed for any level of training. You can take part in the climb as part of an organized group.

• Diving

Mallorca has an excellent infrastructure for diving. The rich flora and fauna, the clear Mediterranean Sea attract both amateurs and professionals alike. Diving schools and equipment rentals can be found on the shore.

Sunken submarines, which have become a haven for many species of fish and invertebrates, are of particular interest to divers in Mallorca. By the way, the island constantly hosts national championships in breath-holding diving, spearfishing, and photography. To take part in such a championship, you need to have a license.

• Surfing

Favorable winds have contributed to the development of such sports like surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and SUP surfing. Mallorca has the best conditions for windsurfing, with the local Embat wind blowing from April to November. Surfing is less popular, but long waves can still be found in the east and north of the island.

And if you prefer a relaxing holiday in Mallorca, then here is a list of the best beaches in Mallorca. By the way, from the 46 blue flags (a special sign of water quality and beach infrastructure) awarded to the Balearic Islands, 31 are located in Mallorca.

Family beaches in Majorca

• Santa Ponsa Beach

A wide range of entertainment, good hotels, restaurants and golf clubs are located on the long Santa Ponsa beach, which is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters. A special plus is that the resort is located in close proximity to the capital of the island. A wide variety of excursions are offered on the beach.

• Camp de Mar

The lack of a big wave on Camp de Mar beach makes it suitable for families with children, here you can also take a walk to the 16th century watchtower and enjoy the delightful sunset.

• Cala Millor

You can actively spend time on the Cala Millor beach. All conditions are created here for roller skating or cycling. Due to the shallow water, the beach is also popular with vacationers with children. It can get very crowded during high season.

Natural beaches of Majorca

• Cala Formentor

This is one of the most popular beaches in Mallorca, due to its shallow depth, the beach is suitable for families with children. Cala Formentor is located in the northwest of Mallorca and is the holder of the Blue Flag label. The beach is surrounded by mountains and pine forests, which gives vacationers a saving shade on a hot day.

The beach used to be very popular with movie stars and celebrities thanks to one of the most luxurious hotels on the island, Barcelo Formentor. The hotel has recently been refurbished and is once again attracting wealthy guests. There is an excellent observation deck near the beach.

• Cala d'Or

A chain of five small beaches is located in picturesque bays. The beaches have all the conditions for active sports: diving, surfing, kayaking. You can also take a boat trip from one bay to another.

• Cala Pi

Pi means pine trees. The beach is surrounded by pine forests and cliffs. This is a well-sheltered place from the wind; locals often rest here. On a fairly busy beach, there are a number of restrictions: you cannot bring dogs, make fires and make camping.

• Cala Agulla and Cala Ratjada

You can play beach volleyball on the golden Cala Agulla beach, but there is no infrastructure for water sports here. The sea here is very clean and shallow. If in high season you can't find a place for yourself, then nearby is the Cala Ratjada resort, which is a great alternative.

Secluded beaches of Mallorca

If you do not like the crowded beaches and are in search of a secluded place, then we recommend considering the following beaches in Mallorca:

• Cala Mesquida - a remote and very beautiful beach located in the north of the island and practically untouched by civilization. By the way, it is here that the largest colony of gulls and cormorants in the Balearic Islands nests.

• Alcanada is a very quiet and wild beach with no cafes and shops. There are no lifeguards on the beach and no sun loungers, but good conditions for snorkeling and kayaking are created. The beach is pebbly, there are a lot of algae in the water.

• Cala Deia is another small and quiet beach with stone pools. Bring a towel with you - there are no sun loungers or lifeguards there either. This is a favorite place for artists: beautiful views of the blue sea open from the shore.

• Cala de Sa Calobra - This inaccessible bay is often called magic, it is literally hidden between the 200 meter high cliffs of the Serra de Tramuntana. You can only get to the beach either through a mountain serpentine or from the water.

There are no entirely nudist beaches in Mallorca, but naked sunbathing is allowed on beaches such as Cala Varques, Son Serra de Marina, Es Trenc, Coll Baix, and S'Almunia.

Yachting in Mallorca

An alternative way to relax in Mallorca is to travel on a comfortable yacht. The Balearic Islands are famous for windy weather, so Mallorca has excellent sailing conditions. You can rent a yacht with a skipper or take part in combined crews. The duration of a yacht cruise is usually a week.

Yachting in Mallorca definitely has a number of advantages:

  • you spend every day in a new place;
  • you are not concerned with the problem of crowded beaches;
  • beaches that are difficult to access from the coast are opened for you from the water.

SAILME offers several route options, within which you can visit not only Mallorca but also the other Balearic Islands. The cost of such a holiday does not exceed the cost of staying at a hotel, and in some cases, it is even cheaper. Check out the yacht cruise schedule in Mallorca here.