26 September 2022

Mallorca, Majorca, however you care to say it this gem of an island in the Mediterranean Sea always takes me by surprise. Maybe I’m biased, but what is it about this Balearic treasure that draws me back time after time, year after year? My last visit, in spring this year, was something of a special occasion and it did not disappoint! Why and When Mallorca? Anytime of the year it is a spectacularly beautiful and wonderfully welcoming island with so much to see and do, but slightly out of the busy summer period has got to be my favourite. Whether that is in spring when you can see the stunning pink blossom appearing on over four million almond trees, or in autumn when the oranges start to grow in the valleys of the Tramuntana mountains. Take the vintage narrow gauge train from the capital Palma to traditional Soller for the full experience! Out of season is also when the beaches are quietest and the roads less busy, and you can still be lucky enough to find plenty of heat in the sun to return home bronzed and beautiful! Out and About Mallorca Of course, the most obvious choice is a hire car, and why not when the driving is easy and the scenery spectacular. However for something a little more off-piste, and particularly if you are staying in and around Palma or up in the northern resorts of Alcudia or Pollensa, as we did, hire bikes or electric scooters! The going is flat, the cycle lanes plentiful, if sometimes a little bit hectic (!), and what’s more you get to top up your tan enroute! Food Mallorca Warning – you are likely to come home a few kilos heavier! The island has a reputation for serving up some classy cuisine, from Michelin starred fine dining establishments to local eateries offering a tempting, on both the pallet and the pocket, menu del dia (menu of the day). Mallorca has an abundance of the freshest fish (try Puerto Andraitx, for a meal with a view) and fusion delights – check out Quinta Avenida in Palma for some exquisite sushi and tempura. Although one of my personal favourite restaurants has got to be the infamous Meson C’an Pedro, in the hills above Genova. This carnivores paradise has existed since the 60’s and just keeps getting better with each passing year. The food is fresh and well prepared, exceptionally tasty and reasonably priced. It is rustic and relaxed and a great spot for a celebration with family or friends. Versatile Mallorca This really is an island for all ages and tastes. Over the years I’ve been there with partners, parents, children, friends and work colleagues and it always delivers. It really does have something for everyone. If you’re after culture, history and sightseeing, its there. If you prefer a good book on a white-sand beach aside the tantalising turquoise Mediterranean Sea, you’ve got it! Luxury high-end hotels to small boutique rural affairs, self-catering apartments to a villa with a pool – there is accommodation to suit. So as a self-confessed travel fanatic, and although there are so many places yet to visit in the world, I will always return to Mallorca, which forever holds a piece of my heart. I would be delighted to help you plan your visit and share some more of my top tips! Please call me on 01798 850028 or email me tanya.carter@travelcounsellors.com