where to stay, swim and visit
7 min read
Mallorca might not be the first place you think of for a long weekend, but it’s worth considering if you’re short on time, or in search of an alternative to the likes of Paris, Amsterdam or Barcelona for a quick trip abroad.
With British Airways flights from three London airports to Palma (including from City Airport, for the easiest of journeys if you’re based in the capital), you can soak up the beauty of the European hotspot in no time.
A flight time of only two hours and 25 minutes, along with the ease of renting a car and getting around the island, means you can spend more of your holiday time strolling the ancient streets of Palma, discovering picture-perfect coves, or visiting the fairytale mountain villages than getting to the destination.
While British holidaymakers have been visiting Mallorca for decades, a host of new stylish hotels arriving (from Richard Branson’s 20-years-in-the-making Son Bunyola opening in summer 2023, to the captivating Hotel Valldemossa becoming one of the most sought-after stays in the Sierra de Tramuntana in 2024) is attracting a new set of luxury seekers to the Balearic isle.
Mallorca is also an excellent island to visit out of season, with many hotels staying open until the end of October, inviting you to take advantage of fewer crowds, ample hiking opportunities and the warm autumn weather.
Whether you’ve got a weekend to spare, or you’re here for longer, our Mallorca travel guide will tell you where to stay, the best beaches for swimming and the beautiful towns to visit.
WHERE TO STAY IN MALLORCA
Hotel Valldemossa, Valldemossa
A fairytale of a hotel in the scenic Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, Hotel Valldemossa arrived in early 2024 and became one of the most in-demand places of the summer. It’s located a five-minute walk from one of Mallorca’s prettiest villages, Valldemossa, which inspired composer Frédéric Chopin and is frequented by the likes of Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Surrounded by cypress trees and with utterly magical views all around, the luxury boutique hotel has only 12 adult-only rooms, most with terraces for you to take advantage of the glorious setting.
Days here are best spent by the pool with magnificent views (a menu of classics from the hotel’s Asian fusion restaurant De Tokio and Lima is worth ordering from). The wellbeing offering in the Sanctuary is another highlight: the lymphatic drainage massage using cupping therapy and essential oils melts away any stress you came here with. The hotel’s outdoor gym is one of the most beautiful hotel gyms we’ve seen, providing yet another way to take in the views. Plus, the hotel is currently growing its own kitchen garden, with its own tomatoes already featuring on the breakfast menu.
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Can Cera, Palma
A sublime, adults-only oasis on a quiet street in the centre of Palma’s old town, Can Cera provides all the respite you need from the heat and crowds of the city. A hotel so hidden it’s easily missed, the boutique hotel was designed like a home, with the juxtaposition of old and new (centuries-old paintings, antique chests of drawers and modern lighting) displayed throughout. The cooling courtyard with lush palms and ceramic sculptures by Mallorcan artist Jaume Roig sets a romantic scene.
There are two bars in the hotel and a private spa with a Jacuzzi, Finnish sauna and hammam that can be booked. At Can Cera, you’ll feel like the only guest in the house and there’s an emphasis on the shared spaces. While you could easily spend many hours enjoying its serenity, its lacking of a swimming pool and alfresco spaces encourages you to get out and explore the city.
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Son Bunyola, Banyalbufar
More than 20 years in the making, Son Bunyola is the latest property in Richard Branson’s ultra-luxury Virgin Limited Edition collection, which includes Necker Island and Kasbah Tamadot, near Marrakech. A passion project for the entrepreneur, who spent childhood holidays in Mallorca, Son Bunyola is an impressive 1,300-acre estate with only 27 rooms and suites, and three separate villas. A 16th-century finca brought to life, the luxury Mallorcan hotel has retained many original features, including a historic oil press. The incredible food comes from Executive Chef Brenda Lisiotti, who is inspired by the farm to fork philosophy: expect the freshest ingredients, from the juiciest tomatoes to the most fragrant herbs grown metres away from the kitchen.
The stylish rooms and suites were designed to offer traditional Mallorcan charm, with warm tones to make you feel at home, and offer views of the sea and mountains. While every room is beautifully decorated, you can have an extra-special stay by booking a Tafona or Tower Suite, which come with their own private terraces. There’s also plenty to do here if you have no intention of leaving the hotel grounds, from playing tennis to swimming in the gorgeous pool and simply walking among nature.
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WHERE TO SWIM IN MALLORCA
Cala Blanca, near Andratx
Cala Blanca, Andratx
Mallorca is packed with stunning beaches with turquoise water – many that you would have seen on Instagram – and it’s possible to avoid the crowds, even during the height of the summer season. While trying to find some secret beaches close to Palma, we came across Cala Blanca, near Port d’Andratx. A small rocky cove surrounded by pine trees and with crystal-clear water, it’s perfect if you’re looking to have a corner of beach to yourself. There are no facilities at the quiet spot and you’ll need to make your way down a steep path, but this only adds to the appeal and means fewer tourists with whom to share the virgin beach.
Cala Figuera, Cap de Formentor
Not to be confused with the Cala Figuera on the south coast of Mallorca, this hidden beach in the Formentor area is another place you can have to yourself. Many beachgoers in the area head for the Blue Flag Playa de Formentor, but those who don’t need a child-friendly or easy-access beach can enjoy the remoteness of Cala Figuera, around a 10-minute bus ride away (there’s plenty of parking at Playa de Formentor). A rocky path leads down to the beach, where you’ll be rewarded with a heavenly spot for snorkelling and floating in a quiet setting. Beach socks are recommended on the rocky beach and there are no toilets or refreshments, plus it’s likely you’ll meet some of the area’s cheeky goats.
Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá, Illetas
Prefer to swim where the drinks are flowing and you have both a swimming pool and the sea? Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá, in the south of Mallorca, around a 20-minute drive from Palma, is home to the Bombon Pool Club by Alberta Ferretti. Tie-dye prints adorn the umbrellas and sun beds, and the beach and pool bar’s beige tones create the most fashionable place to relax in the sun. Here, cocktails are served to you poolside and the restaurant has the likes of lobster, Black Angus beef and Iberian ham on the menu. You can easily spend a day here and book one of the Bali beds for an upgrade to the luxe experience.
WHAT TO DO IN MALLORCA
Valldemossa
Discover the enchanting mountain villages
Going beyond the beaches and heading into the Tramuntana Mountains is one of the best things to do in Mallorca. You’ll find charming villages scattered across the mountain range that you can explore by car. One of the best-loved and most picturesque is Deia, which has attracted artists for decades and has a distinct boho vibe. Get lost wandering its pretty streets, browse ceramics in the independent boutiques and stop for freshly squeezed orange juice at a cafe with a terrace – Deia is a delight for spending a slow morning in the mountains. Valldemossa, our favourite village, also has a special charm. Here, you’ll find car-free alleys, ancient stone houses and art galleries. It also hosts the Chopin Festival every August.
See Mallorca from the water
Renting a boat is a wonderful way to take in Mallorca from the Mediterranean Sea. There are many kiosks at Port de Pollença, where you can hire a small boat for a half or full day. Opt for one with a canopy to shield you from the heat and pack plenty of water and snacks. The boat rental company will give you a map and tell you the nicest spots to sail to. This is your chance to browse impressive waterfront villas, pass the Punta de la Avanzada lighthouse and anchor your boat to snorkel the clear water at virgin beaches, such as El Caló.
Be wowed by the Cathedral of Mallorca
It’s easy to head straight from Palma’s airport to the mountains or beaches, but it’s worth spending time to get to know the city, too. One of its must-see attractions is Palma’s imposing cathedral, known as Le Seu, a golden building that’s hard to miss. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic cathedral has a 44-metre central nave and 61 stained-glass windows. Take time to stare at the beauty of its interior, some of which was designed by Antoni Gaudí, and purchase a ticket with access to the terraces. This gets you close to the main rose window and provides a panoramic view of Palma.
British Airways flies from City, Gatwick and Heathrow to Palma for as little as £37 each way.
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