General Information
The island of Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands boasting an average of 300 days of sunshine a year and is famous for its warm Mediterranean climate. Most of the local population is located in the energetic city of Palma, however look closely and you will find smaller, more relaxed towns and villages where you can relax and experience traditional Mallorcan life. From secluded caves, fine golden sandy beaches and art galleries to frenetic nightlife and lively bars, there is something for everyone in Mallorca.
Location
Majorca or Mallorca, whichever way you prefer to spell it, and whichever way you wish to pronounce it, is the largest of the Balearic Islands, and along with its sister islands of Minorca and Ibiza, lies in the Mediterranean Sea off the South East coast of mainland Spain.
Getting There
Mallorca's international airport, Son Sant Joan Airport, is 8km (5mi) from Palma. The island is such a popular destination that most airlines fly direct. If you want to go via the mainland, it will invariably raise the price of your journey. The cheapest flights tend to go from Barcelona and Valencia; you can get particularly good deals in low season. Ferries to Mallorca also run from these cities and you can buy tickets in advance or at the ports. A departure tax applies when flying out of Spain, but this is included in the price of the ticket.
Getting Around
The best way to get around the island is by car or bike, and there are several rental companies in Palma. If you'd rather use public transport, a regular bus service connects the airport with Palma, where you can get buses to the rest of the island. There are also two train lines running from Placa de Espanya in Palma: one goes to Soller on the northwest coast, the other inland to Inca. A third train connects Inca with Sa Pobla. You can travel via boats and water-taxis between the different resorts.
If you want to island-hop around the Balearics, there are (costly) inter-island flights, and ferries, which operate from Palma, Port d'Alcudia and Cala Ratjada.
Shopping
Shopping: For the shopper in Mallorca, there is plenty to choose from. The Corte Ingles, one of Spain's major department stores has a great selection of designer labels and gifts. Along the Avenida Jaime III in Palma you will find elegant boutiques, explore a little further into the centre of the city and you will be able to choose from a wide range of stores, catering for all tastes and budgets. On Monday, Friday and Saturday mornings the Plaza Major in Palma holds an outdoor craft market where you can find unique items. It is worth visiting the smaller towns and villages for bargains and local gifts such as pearls and leather goods. Most shops close for lunch: opening hours are generally from 10am till 2pm, then from 4pm till 8pm although this may vary between establishments. Most shops are closed on Sundays.
Beach Information
Mallorca has a fine selection of beaches, which attract an increasing number of visitors. In the north of the island you can find many secluded, quiet pebble beaches and coves. Going towards the northeast of the island, Sa Canova, Cala Mesquida and Cala Agulla, the beaches form impressive dunes and are relatively unspoiled. On the southeast coast near to Sa Rapita, Es Trenc is perhaps one of the most impressive beaches with 3.5km of unspoiled natural coast line (nudity is permitted in certain areas). Palma and the southwest coast of Mallorca also offers a good choice of beaches, although they do attract a large number of visitors during high season.
Events and Festivals
The first big bash of the year is January's festival of San Sebastian, the patron saint of Palma. San Antonio Abad the patron saint of animals, is also celebrated in January, with pet processions and animal blessing ceremonies. The weekend before Lent, Sa Rua, is carnival time, characterised by people wearing fancy dress and dancing on coloured floats. Semana Santa, holy week, is an even bigger do; Palma holds processions every day and the smaller towns have festivities too. In July the party moves to Valldemossa, where the Carro Triunfal commemorates Santa Catalina Tomas, the patron saint of Mallorca. In July, battles from the 1229 Christian invasion are re-enacted in Pollenca.
Sports
Mallorca is host to a variety of sporting events. Palma, the capital holds an annual marathon in September/October and plenty of sea and mountainous areas provide the ideal landscape for those wishing to have a more active visit. During the summer months, several boat races are held attracting the rich and famous, many of which depart from the port in Palma- keep your eyes peeled for King Juan Carlos I, who has often taken part.
Climate
The Mediterranean climate of the Balearics keeps Mallorca's winter comfortably mild (around 15°C/59°F). Summer temperatures of around 27°C (85°F) are perfect for swimming (the water is also warm) and other outdoor activities.
Money & Cost
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted on the island, and most banks have ATMs (cajero automatico). For extra security take travellers cheques too. Most of the towns on the island have banks where you can cash cheques and exchange cash. The more touristy areas also have bureaux de change.
Activities
The most popular activities on the island are probably partying, drinking and generally having a good time. However if you're after something a bit healthier, the hiking on Mallorca is great, particularly in the mountainous northwest; spring is the best time, as summer can be a bit hot and dry. The less hilly areas are better for cycling, and there are plenty of places on the island where you can hire bikes. If you like your activities wet (and not hangover-inducing), most beach resorts offer a choice of water sports and hire out sailboards, catamarans, kayaks and pedalos. You can also take scuba-diving lessons and hire equipment on the island. For those who prefer slides to snorkels there's a selection of noisy water parks: don't forget your sun-tan lotion.