Mallorca and the Balearics

We are asked all the time, “Isn’t Mallorca overrun with passengers from the big cruise ships?” If you don’t bother to venture further than a few miles from the Palma harbor on a hot day in high season, then the answer is yes.

But we know – and love – a different Mallorca. Mallorca (and neighboring Menorca, too) is in many ways, one of the last vestiges of a beautiful Old Spain, which is vanishing before our eyes.

In a setting of rolling hills and dramatic mountains, two-lane country roads wind from village to village, offering ever-changing views. Sleepy main squares lined with bars and restaurants beckon, offering local red wines and hearty, simple cuisine. Local markets are filled with fresh fruit, artisanal cheeses, sea salt, olive oils, and freshly-made doughnuts too.

This has long been an artist’s enclave: George Sand, Frederic Chopin, and many others have relocated here. It’s easy to see why Mallorca feels removed from the real world, set in an idyllic past.

There are many ways to explore the island. You can hike from village to village, stopping in local markets, or drive along the scenic shoreline.

We also arrange biking (mountain bikes or motorized bike) on the hilly roads of the countryside. Mallorca is a coveted destination of severe bikers.

We’ll be the first to encourage you to sail along the island’s dramatic northern coast.

The restless might board a short flight or ferry to Ibiza for the weekend to check out that island’s notorious, never-ending party scene.

It’s also well worth it to explore the smaller, quieter, relaxed island of Menorca to the northeast, with white sand beaches and clear waters, prehistoric Bronze Age ruins and picturesque towns such as Ciutadella.

On a Mediterranean island, what could be more appealing than that sluggish pace of Old Spain, a place where time doesn’t matter much at all?