Mallorca is the largest island in the Balearics, and is located 79km off the coast of Valencia in the Mediterranean Sea.
TYPES OF HOLIDAYS
The flight time to Mallorca is only about four hours from the UK, making it an ideal destination for all types of holiday makers.
There is a great range of beaches and nightlife, so younger travellers often choose the island for a cheap, week-long getaway.
However, there is plenty to see and do all over Mallorca, so you can easily stay for three weeks or longer. There are plenty of apartments, hotels and all inclusive resorts to cater to your type of holiday.
BEST TIME TO GO
Mallorca enjoys a Mediterranean climate and as such is fairly mild all year round, meaning it is possible to visit in the winter months.
However, it is much cooler in November to April and many of the accommodation and tourist facilities are not open.
The best time to visit is the summer months of May to October, with warm temperatures and little chance of rain.
Prices are higher at this time of year, but Mallorca is very competitive and so you should easily be able to bag some bargains!
Keep in mind that the height of the season in July and August is extremely busy so may not be ideal if you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of large crowds.
SIGHTS TO SEE
Mallorca is of course famed for its stunning beaches and this is indeed where you will spend most of your time. However, there are many historical and natural sites to explore.
Cabrera Island is located just off the south coast of Mallorca and is a national park. Here you can go hiking through the scenery and see over 150 species of bird before visiting the museum and the remains of a 14th century castle.
The Parc Natural de sâAlbufera is also a must-see, with these wetlands being very popular with birdwatchers.
Just outside the capital city of Palma you can visit the 14th century Bellver Castle. Inside this unique circular structure there is a fascinating museum telling you more about the history of the castle and surrounding area.
You can also head underground to explore the Dragon Caves in Porto Cristo. An English speaking guide will tell you about the rock formations in the cave, and tours finish with a violin concert and gondola ride.
ACTIVITIES
Sport activities in Mallorca mean one thing: water sports!
Famed for its marine life, there are many scuba diving schools providing training and equipment so you can check out what lies beneath the surface of the sea.
If youâd prefer to stay dry, The Nemo Submarine runs from Magaluf and is a great way for you to explore all the marine life in the area.
Marine Land is a theme park that tells you all about all things maritime, with dolphin shows, a coral reef and an aquarium.
And for something to keep the kids entertained, then head to one of the many water parks in Mallorca. Aqualandia in Palma, the Aquapark in Magaluf or the Hidropark in Alcudia are all very popular. Let the kids play in the wave pool or on the water slides while you relax in the shade by the pool.
BEACHES
There are many stunning beaches in Mallorca, and plenty that cater to individual tastes.
Families are well catered for in the main cities of Palma and Palma Nova. These beaches are close to most of the accommodation you are likely to be staying in and are lined by many amenities such as toilets, showers, shops, cafes and restaurants.
Magaluf is more suited to younger holiday makers as it is close to fantastic bars, restaurants and nightclubs.
While these beaches are well maintained and well situated for amenities, this also means they can become extremely crowded. If you are looking for a more secluded beach experience then head to Portals Nous, which is situated in a narrow, sandy cove, and off the beaten track Sas Illetes.
NIGHTLIFE
Mallorca is famed for its nightlife, and this is not just restricted to all night discos.
Younger holiday makers tend to favour the resort of Magaluf. Here you will find the best bars and clubs, many of which are situated right on the beach front. The highlight here is the famous BCM nightclub, with a capacity of 5000!
Palma, Palma Nova and Alcudia also have streets full of bars and clubs where you will be spoilt for choice.
These towns also have plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy a more relaxing evening, and there are many venues offering live music, traditional dancing and cabaret shows!
And if you fancy a touch of glamour, head to the casino in Sol de Mallorca and have a flutter!
ACCOMMODATION
Mallorca is packed with all types of accommodation so you will surely find something that suits your needs.
For beach side accommodation, the Apartamentos Bellamar offers budget self catering apartments just across the road from Puerto de Pollensa Beach.
The Iberostar Albufera Playa also provides beach front accommodation by Playa Muro, and features include a spa with massage and Turkish bath, a tennis court, three swimming pools and a number of restaurants.
For trendy accommodation right in the heart of Palma, head to the Saratoga â" which its rooftop pool boasting spectacular views across the city, youâll barely need to move all holiday! Downstairs there is also a jazz club which features live music most evenings.
The Can Furious in Binibona is a family run hotel in a peaceful location, ideal for anybody seeking the ultimate in a relaxing getaway. The outdoor swimming pool is simply idyllic and there are excellent transport links to local amenities.
And the Apart Hotel Son Rigo is just 100m from Palma Beach and offers both self catering apartments and hotel rooms with access to a buffet style restaurant. There is also a snack bar located next to the outdoor pool.