From the moment I stepped into Pamplona, I felt the energy of the Running of the Bulls buzzing in the air. The city was alive with excitement as it prepared for the highly anticipated festival in July. Vibrant red and white decor, traditional costumes, and fluttering banners transformed the city into a playground of anticipation.
In recent years, Spain’s capital city has received a makeover, and it’s not a quick makeover. The city’s formerly rundown neighborhoods have been spruced up without losing their attractiveness, and the city’s three most important museums have grown to accommodate more visitors.
There are many activities to do in Mallorca, which offers wonderful sandy beaches.
The island of Mallorca’s easygoing vibe and beautiful sea vistas have made it a favorite among tourists for decades. Because the sea breeze moderates the region’s often sweltering summers, it’s a haven for sun seekers.
You may already be familiar with the stunning coasts and sandy beaches of Mallorca, one of Spain’s Balearic Islands. But have you heard of the excellent hiking in the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range?
Here are the must-sees on this stunning island.
Historic Village of Pollenca on the Island of Palma Mallorca, Spain-1024×683Image source: Serenity-H/Shutterstock.com
Many tourists skip Palma in favor of the beaches in Cala Mondragó and Formentor, but the city is a great starting point for learning about Mallorca’s rich history and culture. Known as the capital of the Balearic Islands and a popular tourist destination, this western Mediterranean metropolis has been home to Moors, Romans, and Catholics since 123 BC.
Santa Mara, the Castell de Bellver, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, and the Mercat de l’Olivar, a bright and ancient hall where you can sample wine and tapas, should all be on your list of must-sees.
Boulevard Born in Palma de Mallorca, SpainImage source: Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock.com
Explore the maze of streets and stores along the tree-lined high street. You’ll find several galleries, such as Berlin’s Kewenig Gallery, which showcases the work of many up-and-coming artists, inside the gridlike structure of Passeig des Born.
Visit Terra Cuita to see the vibrant Mallorcan pottery. Stop by Ombú for some cutting-edge tapas and futuristic architecture. Eat at De Tokio a Lima and wash down your white sangria with a stroll through the lively streets of Santa Catalina.
Mojito Drink in Palma de Mallorca Party-1024×575Image source: Melina Ariel imagenes/Shutterstock.com
Stop by Clandestino Cocktail Club for a nightcap of gin and tonics and call it a day as the Spaniards do. This institution presents itself as a smoky jazz-playing club with a hidden speakeasy menu, so the atmosphere is both relaxing and lounge-like.
Even the bar, which is stocked to the gills with premium liquors, has an air of urban chic. In addition to the traditional gin and tonic, the famous Negroni (€15) is a must-have; it consists of gin, Campari, and vermouth, and it is served over crushed ice with an orange peel. True Spanish? Probably not, but it’s a place where you can relax after a long day of sightseeing.
“Magaluf Beach and Bay, Calvia, Mallorca, Spain”-1024×683Image source: xabi_kls/Shutterstock.com
Remember to load up on a big Spanish breakfast before traveling towards Magaluf beach for an intensive day of soaking in the sunlight. Relax at El Roco Santa Ponsa, located in the tranquil Santa Ponça neighborhood.
Get the patatas bravas (€7.50), a local delicacy of deep-fried potatoes doused in a spicy sauce. They go well with the churros and thick hot chocolate drinks. Visit Le Cafe Flora, a specialty breakfast restaurant and bakery in Magaluf, for an alternative option.
Diving Suits Hanging to Dry in Magaluf, SpainImage source: Westermak/Shutterstock.com
Magaluf Beach is best visited in the late morning before the sun gets too high and the first thousand meters of beach, which runs down the coast, become crowded with local swimmers.
Those in need of peace and quiet can make their way to Palmanova Beach, located to the north. Under the same soothing, pale blue sky, you may find miles upon miles of empty, little-visited sand. Relax on the fine white beach and cool yourself in the deep blue water. Bondi Beach Magaluf, inspired by the neighboring Spanish culinary culture, offers you tasty and elegantly presented Paella with an amazing drink menu.
Hiking in Mallorca’s Tramuntana Mountains-1024×683Image source: Edda Dupree/Shutterstock.com
Get out of Palma on your second day in Mallorca and go north toward the Serra de Tramuntana, a mountain range that runs along the island’s whole northwestern coast and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Near Valldemossa, the craggy mountain range makes for a great vantage point. Get yourself a trail map that will bring you through olive groves, vineyards, and almond orchards to quaint and ancient towns and villages.
The lengthy Dry Stone Route between Port d’Antratx and Pollença can be toured with a guide.
Some of the routes are advised for experienced hikers only and might take anywhere from three to eight hours. It’s recommended that you bring sturdy hiking shoes as well as plenty of water.
“Costa Maya Cruise Ship Terminal and Resorts in Mexico”Image source: GTS Productions/Shutterstock.com
Many of the island’s most exciting activities take place after dark. Get to the La Lonja neighborhood once the sun goes down. The Jazz Voyeur Club is one of several cozy bars where you can choose from an authentic à la carte menu and drink large measures of Spanish brandy. Or book a table at the Blue Jazz Club, which overlooks Palma Bay. Please make reservations in advance.
Pubs, dive bars, and tourist bars stay open late, so the celebration may continue well after dark. In the morning, when you wake up with a hangover, you can be confident that some of the best Mediterranean cafés will be waiting for you.
In Canyamel’s valley is the 5-star Cap Vermell Grand Hotel, which has a Michelin-starred restaurant and opulent decor. Cala Agulla Beach and the Caves of Artà are both within easy driving distance of the hotel
The Palma de Mallorca airport is served by several daily flights from major European cities, including London and Manchester. Direct buses go from the airport to the heart of Palma. From the ports of Barcelona and Valencia, you can take a ferry to get here.
The views of Mallorca’s coves, cliffs, and curved coastline from the sea are equally as stunning as they are from the land, so we made sure to include a boat ride in our itinerary.
Thus, we decided to purchase a membership aboard the yacht Vita Bel II at Cala D’Or.
We were strolling through the palm-lined marina at Cala d’Or when we caught sight of the iconic teak-decked boat Vita Bell II, complete with its bare masts.
She shone in the bright orange light of the day, which contrasted beautifully with the turquoise waters and brilliant blue sky. The waters were ripe with potential at that very moment.
Shoeless, we hopped on in a jiffy, and a glass of Cava arrived in our hands in no time. There were ten of us in all, some of us complete strangers, and we were all grinning broadly despite having to somewhat squint into the sun.
Nigel Lewis, the captain, welcomed everyone aboard from the main cockpit and gave a brief overview of safety procedures and housekeeping norms. He started the engine, and in a matter of minutes, we were all sipping more of the excellent Mallorcan wine or beer and listening to soothing music. The good times were now officially underway.
Sailing into the forming wavelets, Nigel and his crewmate lifted the sails. The waves were a little bumpy, but that was okay. Some of us lounged on the plush couches surrounding the cockpit, while others sunbathed on padded mats at the bow or stern. Or, to do nothing more than take it easy and take in the scenery, the sun’s rays, the sea air, and the sounds of the gulls flying above.
Also, we enjoyed getting behind the wheel, which is harder than it seems. We returned command to the smug captain because we didn’t want to wind up in Algiers.
We were soon on the stunning Cala Mondrago bay on Mallorca’s southeast coast. We were tucked away in a quiet bay, sheltered by towering cliffs and a forest of pine trees. In the distance, we could also make out the beautiful white beaches of S’Amarrador Beach.
Conversations flowed easily, wine was flowing, and the waves gently rocked, making the rest of the world appear distant.
Some passengers cautiously entered the water when the ship’s hydraulic swim platform was lowered. Some people plunged right in, while a few risk-takers used the available stand-up paddle boards. We wanted to go snorkeling, but we got too busy laying out in the sun and drinking wine.
The hour or two flew by, and we were back in Portopetro Harbor, this time moored for lunch.
A sun canopy provided some shade over the assembled guests as they waited for the prawns, smoked salmon, Spanish tortilla, salad, hams, and cheeses to arrive. There was an abundance of alcoholic beverages.
Nigel questioned, “Are you a recycler?” Obviously, we did. Then, “throw your prawn heads” into the sea. It’s amazing to see the seagulls dive for these tasty morsels before they hit the water. Fish that swam to the top in the crystal-clear water quickly devoured the ones that were left behind. We found it hilarious.
Fruit salad with luscious mango and watermelon was served as we watched the show, and the tables were removed in between acts.
After one more dive and snorkel, the captain kindly got us all back on the boat to go back to port. Five hours had gone by in what seemed like a blink of an eye.
We promised ourselves We’d go on a sunset sail the next time we visit.
From May 1st through October 31st, guests can take a five-hour tour of the island on the Vita Bell II. We have 12 total visitors.
Note: Vita Bell II is available for private tours and shared charters for small groups, with an open bar and food provided.
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