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As we get ready for a long, hot kiwi summer I always find that by the end of January I’m looking at ways to keep the holiday buzz alive. So, if you find yourself lounging around in jandals at the beach this summer, and dreaming of a European getaway in 2025, I’ve got one word for you: Mallorca (or Majorca, depending on who you ask—but more on that later). This Mediterranean gem is the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands and a place that effortlessly blends jaw-dropping natural beauty with centuries of fascinating history. And let’s not forget the food – this is Spain after all, so ditch the scales and adopt the ‘everything in moderation, including moderation’ mantra.
Parts of Spain, including Mallorca, have a reputation of being inundated with hardcore party folk from all over the European region - and the world, at peak times. It is true some of them do find their way to Mallorca, but they are usually contained to Magaluf and Palma Nova – if that’s your vibe – awesome, if not, I’d probably avoid. Mallorca has a vast abundance of beauty and fantastic places to see, away from tourists. To give a bit on geographic context – Mallorca is about 1.5x the size of Bali island… Here are my takes on why Mallorca should top your travel list.
Both spellings are used, with Mallorca being the Spanish spelling and Majorca the English variant. It comes from the Latin insula maior, meaning “larger island”. Over the centuries, the island has seen its fair share of overlords - the Romans and Moors to the Crown of Aragon. Each left their stamp, and you can still see these cultural influences scattered across the island. In fact, Palma de Mallorca (usually just called Palma), the capital, was founded by the Romans in 123 BCE. Palma is a bustling hub of history and modern life, complete with stunning architecture, stylish boutiques, and thriving markets.
Mallorca is pretty amazing year-round, but I’d recommend visiting between May and October.
The weather’s warm (can be baking hot), and the beaches are pristine. Like most of southern Europe - July and August are peak season, which means many more tourists and slightly higher prices, so if you love that lively atmosphere, it’s perfect. However if you’re not a fan and prefer fewer crowds and cooler weather, spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal. You can still swim, the sun’s shining, and there’s a more laid-back vibe.
Mallorca is a paradise for foodies, offering everything from fresh seafood to traditional Spanish tapas, all with a unique island twist.
My best advice is try everything. A local staple if is Sobrasada, a spreadable cured sausage made with pork, paprika, and other spices. You’ll see it slathered on bread or even cooked into other dishes. I’d say it’s an “acquired taste”... but worth a try. Don’t leave the island without trying Ensaimada, a soft, spiral-shaped pastry dusted with powdered sugar. It’s usually eaten for breakfast, but it’s good any time of day. It’s so fluffy you could use it as a pillow on your plane trip back to NZ. For seafood lovers, make sure you try Arròs Brut, a hearty rice dish (a richer version of Paella) made with saffron, meat, and seasonal veggies. You might also come across Caldereta de Langosta, a rich lobster stew that’s a bit of a splurge but totally worth it if you’re a seafood fanatic.
To accompany your dishes, Mallorca has a surprising number of vineyards that produce some decent reds and whites, so make sure to try the local tipple!
Mallorca is packed with things to see and do, so narrowing it down to a few attractions is no easy task. But here’s my best shot at some highlights:
1. SERRA DE TRAMUNTANA
For a bit of adventure and stunning views, head to the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans the northwest of the island. The mountain range offers hiking trails with jaw-dropping panoramas over the coastline, plus charming little villages like Valldemossa and Deià, where time seems to slow down. If you’re not a big hiker, you can still drive through and soak in the scenery from the comfort of your car. In Deià go for lunch at Ca’s Patró March (Cala de Deià). A rustic beach side restaurant on the rocks serving the freshest seafood.
2. PALMA CATHEDRAL (LA SEU)
Palma is home to one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe: La Seu. This architectural masterpiece took over 400 years to build and is a symbol of the island’s rich history. Inside, you’ll find works by modernist architect Antoni Gaudí (yeah, the same guy who designed Barcelona’s spectacular Sagrada Familia) and the contemporary artist Miquel Barceló. The best part? The cathedral is right by the sea, so the views are sensational.
3. CUEVAS DEL DRACH (DRAGON CAVES)
If you’re in the mood for something a little more otherworldly, check out the Cuevas del Drach on the east coast. These massive underground caves are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and a secret lake that glows an eerie blue. The real highlight is the classical music concert you can experience while floating on a boat across the lake. It really is as magical as it sounds.
4. PORT DE SOLLER
This remote port in the north west of the island is a picturesque, small coastal village which gives Auckland viaduct vibes – a bustling array of eateries and yachts. As an old fishing harbour, it is superb place to try local fish and seafood and the marina is the perfect starting point for yacht and sailing trips to neighbouring bays such as Sa Calobra. We chartered a small speed boat and took a trip along the coast and stopped off at a cliff top restaurant just south west of Deià called Sa Foradada (Cova de Sa Foradada) – well worth a walk up the pathway for stunning views and aqua coloured water and delicious local food and wine. Also note a huge number of kiwi expats live in Mallorca due to the yachting culture. Don’t be surprised to hear the odd kiwi accent!
5. ALCÙDIA’S OLD TOWN
Step back in time with a visit to Alcúdia’s Old Town, a beautifully preserved medieval town that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, and explore the Roman ruins of Pollentia, or simply sip a coffee at one of the charming cafes and watch the world go by. It’s also home to a vibrant market on Sundays and Tuesdays, where you can pick up local crafts, fresh produce, and (of course) souvenirs.
Mallorca is a stunning mix of history, natural beauty, delicious food, and sun. Whether you’re a yachtie, a beach bum, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s something here for everyone. You’ll leave with a tan, a full belly, and memories of an island that’s impossible to forget.
Book your trip to Mallorca with ATPI Travel. Phone 09 529 3700 or visit atpi.com for more.
This article appears in our NEWMARKET. summer 2024 edition. For more, click here.
Tags: travel
