Where is Mallorca
Mallorca is part of the archipelago Islands know as the Balearic Islands, part of Spain, these are made up by Formentera, Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca and are found in the stunning Mediterranean Sea. At 3,640 square kilometres, Mallorca is the largest of the Islands. The island has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, plains, and a picturesque coastline with numerous coves and beaches.
The Name
The name Mallorca is derived from the latin Maiorica which appropriately means Large Island. Menorca - Isula Minor means small island, the Romans who occupied the Balearics used the names so they could tell which was which!
Cultre and language
Mallorca has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various civilizations, including the Romans, Moors, and Catalans. The official languages are Catalan and Spanish. The local Mallorca Catalan dialect is called Mallorquin and depending on the area, the dialect may vary slightly.
Tourism
Mallorca is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Many tourists are attracted to the island's resorts, especially during the summer months. This is a popular Island for return holiday makers who enjoy the temperature and laid back feel of Mallorca.
For the more active holiday maker, Mallorca is homes to the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers stunning landscapes and is popular among hikers and cyclists. The are variuos routes you can take varying in ability.
The Capital
Mallorca's capital is Palma and can be found on the Soutwest of the Island. Here you will find an abundance of local culture, art and history. The Cathedral of Santa Maria is an absolute must see. People marvel at the Gothic Roman architecture. Palma has a lively atmosphere and a beautiful Bay.
There are various neighbourhoods within the City each with there own character and charm. The old town is known more for its shopping, sightseeing and upmarket dining, the hip area of Santa Catalina has a vast choice of modern bars and restaurants.
Palma is a popular destination for weekend breaks thanks to its year round appeal. Various tours can be taken around the City, try one of the tapas tours and experience local cuisine as well as taking in lots of information about the City. Hop on Hop off buses are also a good way of seeing the city.
Palma is around a 50-60 minute to the North of the Island.
Cuisine
Mallorcan cuisine is based around pork, fish and vegetables with a generous splash of garlic and olive oil! You will find an abundance of restaurants selling homemade and traditional dishes such as Arros Brut, this is a delicious stew made up with the above ingredients as well as plenty of seasoning.
Traditionally eaten at Easter the filled pie or Panades are a way of preserving all the meat that was left over after Christmas. Usually made with lamb, local women gather together to make these tasty morsels. Various versions of this treat are found across the Island.
Tapas - a visit to Mallorca should include a trip to a local Tapas bar at least once! This is a fabulous way of discovering and tasting Mallorcas amazing cuisine and joining in with how the locals eat who would normally have Tapas before a main meal!
A large range of modern and upmarket restaurants can be found on Mallorca and even a choice of Michelin Star Restaurants, please see our Blog Michelin Restauants for more information and where they are located. Guides of where to eat can also be found under our Resorts Blogs.
Delicacies
Mallorca is home to many sweet dishes which are so hard to say no too! Bunyols or Mallorcan Doughnuts can be found in many of the Islands towns in particualr during the weekend of Les Verges. If you are lucky enough to visit the Island when there is a festival or fair on, you will find plenty of stands making Bunyols freshly. The smell is divine!
Coca de Cuarto is a light fresh sponge usually eaten at breakfast time. If you have as an afternoon snack if is delicious with almond ice cream. It is the perfect pick me up whilst doing a bit of people watching with a coffee!
Ensaimada is the most famous pastry from Mallorca, it has been a firm favourite and has origins that date back to the 17th Century. This spiral shaped pastry is made from Pork lard, flour, eggs, sugar and mother dough. Widely available throughout bakeries in Mallorca - it is a delicious snack.
Festivals and Events
Mallorca holds various festivals and religious events throughout the year. Here you will see an array of parades, fireworks, music concerts and exhibitions. Please see our Events blog for more information and dates.
Transport
Being the largest Island in the Balearics, Mallorca has a well developed transport system making is easy for tourists to explore the Island. It has a large airport which is only 8 kms from Palma.
Public Bus, Mallorca has an extensive public bus network operated by the Empresa Municipal de Transports (EMT). Buses connect major towns, resorts, and attractions, providing an affordable and efficient way to travel around Mallorca.
Car rental
This is widely available across the Island and would be the most recommended way to get the most out of your stay. We can put you in touch with car hire companies who can assist you with your needs. Car hire can be arranged for you to collect the vehicle at the airport or can be delivered to your choice of accommodation. It is advisable to pre book car hire as demand on the Island has increased over the last couple of years.
Trains
The island has a train network, especially in the central and northern parts. The historic train route from Palma to Sóller, known as the "Orange Express" (Tren de Sóller), is a scenic journey through the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.
Taxi's
Taxi's are readily available in all the major resorts in Mallorca. Taxis in Mallorca are metered, and it's common to find taxi stands in popular areas. We provide local Taxi numbers in a guide before your stay.
Ferries
Ferries connect Mallorca with other Balearic Islands, such as Ibiza and Menorca. Additionally, there are ferry services to the Spanish mainland. Palma's port is the main hub for ferry services.
Beaches
One of the most popular reasons as to why people flock to Mallorca year after year. The Island has 262 beaches with a total length of 50kms! The beaches offer a variety of landscapes, from golden sands to rocky coves. You will find main beaches which will have large numbers of sunbeds and parasols and also smaller coves which will be quieter. If you go on a boat trip you will also discover hidden coves which are perfect for a quiet romantic day at the beach! Please see our Beach blog for more information.