MALLORCA ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE

One word comes to mind when I think of Mallorca. Dreamy! Mallorca is straight out of a story book. If I had to pick an island to spend the rest of my days, it would be Mallorca.  For those of you that may be unfamiliar; Mallorca is one of Spain’s Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean. The island is known for its stunning cove beaches (calas), rugged coastlines, crystal clear waters, jaw dropping landscapes & its charming villages. It truly is the perfect European summer destination. There is so much to see and do on the island. Below I outlined everything I loved, and some helpful tips for your next trip to Mallorca.

MALLORCA BEACHES

HOW LONG SHOULD I VISIT?

There are many factors to consider when planning your trip to Mallorca. First, Mallorca is the largest island in the Balearic Islands. The island is huge! You will need at least 7 days to scratch the surface of the island. Ten days would be perfect. Second, the island gets very hot (especially during the summer). Because of this; you will find that most shops and restaurants close down in the afternoon all year round. The locals use this time to follow the traditional “siesta” custom. Siesta usually takes place between 2:30-5pm. This is the perfect time to rest or visit a beach (cala). If it is possible, my best recommendation would be to split your time between the East coast and West coast.You might be tempted to trek across the island every day. But with all the sun and exploring you’ll be doing, it’s best to set your home base close to your daily activities. That way, you can avoid wasting time and energy traveling back and forth.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

The best way to get around Mallorca is to rent a car. This will help you to maximize your time. There are a ton of rental companies to choose from. I absolutely loved the rental company we used. I reserved a vehicle for 6 days from ROIG car rental. They had affordable new cars, and the customer service was fantastic. We landed at the Palma airport, and our car was dropped off to us there for 20 extra euros. It was super quick, and before I knew it we were on our way. I will definitely use ROIG when I return, and I would highly recommend them to friends, family, and you of course!

WHERE TO STAY?

If you’re looking to explore Mallorca’s charming villages, spectacular views, and stunning beaches than I recommend splitting your time between the East coast and the West coast. I personally spent three days on the East coast and three days on the West coast. For reference, the idyllic villages are located on the Northwest side of the island, while the most popular beaches are located on the Southeast part of the island. If I had to do it all over again, I would have stayed a few days longer to explore Palma for city vibes, and Formentera’s famous and beautiful beach club. 

Meem Townhouse: Meem Townhouse is a boutique hotel located in the center of Soller. This new hotel is a completely refurbished Mallorcan home. From the moment you walk inside it is very relaxing and peaceful. The aesthetic is minimalist with natural tones throughout the hotel. There are seven suites. They all have high ceilings and cool concrete floors. The rooms are very spacious, calming, and stylish. Every morning they serve fresh croissants, coffee, & fresh squeezed juices along with other delicious breakfast options. We spent 3 days here. I loved returning home from our adventures and smelling the different cakes they served daily paired with complimentary wine for our siesta. I absolutely loved everything about this boutique hotel, so much so that when it was time to check out we were pretty sad to leave. I must also say it was my favorite place to stay on the island. 

S ’ Hotelet Santanyi: S’ Hotelet Santanyi is a charming and beautifully designed boutique hotel hidden away in the picturesque village of Santanyi. The guest rooms and common areas are all delicate with an airy and soothing spa like feeling. Breakfast is served in the most loveliest room with plenty of fruit, the softest croissants; and the freshest produce. My favorite area, the garden and plunge pool is the perfect escape from the heat for a cool down. If you stay here you’ll have front row access to the weekly Santanyi market on Wednesday and Sunday mornings. The hotel is also close to all of the epic beaches on the SouthEast side of Mallorca. 

MORE AMAZING ACCOMMODATIONS

Can Ferrereta: A 5 star luxury hideaway set in a restored 17th century mansion in Santanyi Village. Can Ferrereta is known for its architecture and beautiful design and aesthetic. 

Cap Rocat: If you’re looking to splurge Cap Rocat is the Mediterranean’s most private and secluded resort built into the cliffs. Cap Rocat is a bucket list hotel known for its striking cave suites with private plunge pools. The most perfect place for those seeking a romantic escape. 

La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel: Is tucked away in the idyllic village of Deia. La Residencia is a luxurious boutique hotel offering stunning views of the Sierra de Tramuntana Mountain range. This dreamy and magical oasis is an ideal location for honeymooners.

BEACHES

Sa Calobra: Sa Calobra is a dream between two cliffs. Getting here can be a bit of an adventure. The drive to this location is epic, scenic, and very twisty. You take the M10 road, known to be one of the wildest roads in the world. Once you park your car it is about a 15 minute beautiful hike down to the beach. If you’re visiting during peak season, I recommend arriving before 11am and even earlier if possible. Sa Calobra was my favorite beach to visit on the island. It was here that I faced my fears, and did a mini cliff jump. The water is turquoise blue and the views are absolutely spectacular. Sa Calobra is a must visit!

Cala Deia: Cala Deia is a small pebble cove beach just outside the village of Deia. There is no sand here, you will find that this is the norm for majority of the beaches in Mallorca. I recommend bringing sandals to walk into the sea. When I visited in August there was a bit of seaweed. The water is a sapphire color. This is a perfect location for snorkeling. Cala Deia is not at the top of my list, however it is a charming beach, and very picturesque for photos. The cove sits right next to the very popular seafood restaurant,Ca’s Patro March. Lastly, there is a paid parking lot. Once you park it is about a 10 minute walk to the beach. We arrived around 9am, by noon the beach was very crowded. I recommend arriving early if you’re visiting during peak season. 

Cala Pi: Cala Pi is a small emerald sandy bay located between two rocky cliffs and pine trees on the south-coast of Mallorca. It is famous for its hanging cement platform overlooking the cove. I must say, I visited Cala Pi strictly for its iconic viewpoint. You can find this famous instagram worthy location by putting Cala Pi in your Gps. You will  find a set of stairs, once you make your way down you will take the path to your left. There will mostly like be a small uniformed line of people waiting to get their perfect shot. The view here is epic. I didn’t get a chance to visit the beach, but from the viewpoint at around 1pm during peak season it looked a bit crowded. 

Calo des Moro: Calo des Moro once one of Mallorca’s best kept secret beach is now one of the most popular beaches in Mallorca. This stunning cove is located on the SouthEast side of the island. I recommend visiting early in the morning. For reference, I arrived at 9:30 am during peak season. You will want to secure your space for sunbathing. There is limited space in the sand due to the tide depending on the season. Although, Calo des Moro is not easily accessible, once you park it is about a 20-30 minutes beautiful hike down that is definitely worth the visit. You will be blessed with serene views and translucent turquoise water. Calo des Moro is a hidden paradise on earth.  

Es Pontas: Es Pontas is a beautiful natural arch in the southeastern part of the island of Mallorca. This landmark is the perfect place to watch the sunrise or sunset. For the dare devils, I didn’t see anyone do this on my visit to Es Pontas, but I heard that people climb down and cliff jump here. To get here, simply put Es Pontas into your gps. Once you’re parked follow the signs to guide you directly to the viewpoint. I recommend wearing sneakers on this rocky path. It will take about 5-10 minutes. 

Cala Llombard: Cala Llombard is a sandy cove surrounded by pine trees and charming fisherman’s houses. This beach is a popular and convenient location for families and children. There is a paid parking lot, a beach bar for snacks and drinks, and you can also rent a beach chair for 15 euros. I enjoyed visiting Cala Llombard in the morning before the crowds arrived. There are a few swim ladders here, which makes Cala Llombard an ideal location for cliff jumping.

Es Trenc: Es Trenc is a beautiful sandy beach on the Southeast side of Mallorca. This beach is known for its pure white sand, calm shallow water, and turquoise sea. This is a great option for families. There is a large paid parking lot, a beach bar for snacks, and you can also rent an umbrella and chair. If you love fruit, I would bring some extra cash. There is a friendly vendor  that sells fresh mango and watermelon. Lastly, there is little to no shade here. I highly recommend bringing an umbrella. 

VILLAGES:

Soller: Soller is a charming and quaint Spanish village on the Northwest side of the island. I spent three lovely evenings in Soller at the Meem Townhouse boutique hotel. This village is a great base for those that are interested in visiting the neighboring villages, Palma, and the beaches on the westside. The town is small enough to explore by foot in a few hours. There is a ton of amazing restaurants and local artists boutique shops. Soller’s cobblestone roads are beautifully decorated according to the season. You will also find that all of the narrow passageways are filled with lush potted plants. The town is known for its vintage wooden tram that takes you through Soller to Port Soller, a beautiful coastal village that you should definitely takes some time to explore. Both Soller and Port Soller are lovely towns that should definitely be on the top of your list of places to visit in Mallorca.

Deia: Deia is an enchanting and serene hilltop village perched along the Mediterranean coast and Serra de Tramuntana Mountains. The entire town looks and feels as though it is straight out of a fairytale. Musicians, free spirits, and artists have been long attracted to this peaceful community, and have helped form a creative influence here. It will feel nothing short of surreal as you stroll pass the idyllic stone houses and dramatic views of the mountains. Deia is the prettiest and most romantic village I have ever visited to date. It is also home to the best meals I had on the island. It would be a crime to visit Mallorca, and not see Deia. 

Valldemossa: This cozy, tranquil, and picturesque town has old world charm written all over it. The village is lined with decorated doors and colorful potted plants all along its cobblestone roads. Life feels simple and peaceful here. Everything about Valldemossa invites to smell the flowers, slow down, and disconnect. Take your time as you stroll through the main square where you will find charming shops, cafes, and tapas bars. Be sure to take in the panoramic views of the lush countryside as you explore the picturesque streets .You will find stunning views of the Mallorcan Mountain range from every angle. 

WHERE TO EAT?

Ca’s Patro March: Set front and center at the foot of the Mediterranean Sea, sits Ca’s Patro March. This is the perfect coastal hideaway next to Cala Deia for a seafood feast with an unbeatable setting. Be sure to book well in advance on their website. If you find yourself without a reservation like we did, they do accept names on a wait list, just be prepared to practice some patience. It will be worth the wait. 

Cafe Miro: Cafe Miro is a mountain facing venue set at La Residencia, Belmond hotel. Dining at La Residencia is like stepping into a dream. I had the most romantic dinner to date at Cafe Miro. Surrounded by a beautiful floral terrace, a lovely pianist, and an impeccable meal. The entire setting, views, and service is impeccable. Be sure to book well in advance to secure a reservation here. I highly recommend Olivio, the sister restaurant that is also located on the Belmond Hotel property for the most beautiful candlelit dinner. 

Es Vinyet Pizza: Located in the quaint village of Santanyi, is Es Vineyet Pizza. I had the most delicious pizza here. The pizza here is cheesy and crisp. It feels as though you are transported back to Rome. All of the pizzas are made in a brick fire oven. Search no further for the most authentic pizza experience on the island. 

S’ Embat Mallorca: Hidden in the woods and under the stars is S’Embat. This idyllic oasis features traditional Spanish BBQ accompanied by local musicians and flamingo concerts. Be sure to check their instagram for their daily schedule. This whimsical and bohemian setting is the perfect place to be free and dance the night away.

Nama Restaurant: Nama is located in one of the prettiest coastal villages of Mallorca, Deia. Nama offers spectacular views of the Serra de Tramuntana Mountains paired with the most vibrant, savory, and flavorful SouthEast Asian dishes. I had the most delicious meal of my life at Nama. Not to sound dramatic, but I still dream about their pad thai. Nama is an unforgettable dining experience. 

Neni Restaurant: Neni is located on the roof terrace at Bikini Island and Mountain Hotel. I discovered this place while I was on the island strolling Port Soller. While, I didn’t have the opportunity to dine here, I did have drinks at their bar overlooking Port Soller and the Tramuntana Mountains. Be sure to secure a reservation here in advance. Neni is known for their eclectic mediterranean delicacies. 

Bacco: Bacco is a quirky and charming Italian dining experience. I recommended sitting outside under the pine trees in the garden for a romantic and musical atmosphere. The service is outstanding and the dishes are authentic and delicious. Be sure to save room for dessert and the complimentary limoncello.

Cassai Beach House: Cassia Beach house is a transformed fisherman’s house beautifully designed on the boardwalk of Sea Salines town. Be sure to grab a seat on the sunny terrace under an umbrella for a front row view of the sea. The food here is simple and nothing to brag about, however if you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing instagram photo opportunity than Cassia Beach House is the place to be.