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Mallorca Excursions
Palma de MallorcaPalma de Mallorca is the island's capital city itself. There is much to see and do in this beautiful settlement, whether it is shopping, sightseeing, sunbathing or exerting yourself in the water parks or in the sea. As far as sightseeing goes, begin at the Bellver Castle. Built on a historical Muslim site, this splendid castle also contains a museum of archaeological finds as well as classic sculptures. The view of the bay is simply immense from the castle and should not be missed. From there, head on to the Pueblo Espanol - an architectural museum that is designed to ape a small village, celebrating the major classics of Spanish architecture. Other ‘must-sees' include the Cathedral de Mallorca and the adjoining museum, which both sit majestically above the sea. The brilliance of the architecture will astound, likewise the religious paintings and exhibits which line the halls of the museum. The Banys Arabs (Arab Baths) is the only building which still survives from the time of Arab settlement in Mallorca. Built in the tenth century, the baths still operate today and offer a great way to unwind in the sometimes unforgiving Mallorca sun. Also, try and make time for the Museo de Arte Espanol Contemporaneo, where you will find some fantastic permanent collections by some of Spain's most prominent artists including Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalo, Joan Miro and Juan Gris. If sightseeing isn't on the agenda and you've simply come to Mallorca to have some fun, there is also much to engage. Aqualand (www.aqualand.es) has a myriad of swimming pools and water slides suitable for all ages. The Paseo Martimo district by the ocean's edge is the place to head for by night. When the sun goes down, the many clubs and bars within its confines stay open until dawn. If that sounds a little too boisterous, the Parc de la Mar will offer relaxing beaches and various water sport opportunities.
Serra de Tramuntana
The small, yet attractive town of Pollenca sits at the bottom of the Serra de Tramuntana and is well worth spending a few hours at. The small bars and restaurants in the main square provide ample opportunity to simply kick back and relax in this pleasant environment. From Pollenca you are able to climb to the top of Puig de Pollenca - a steep hill which takes you to an ancient monastery, which dates back to 1348 (although it is now a hostel).
SollerSituated on the northwest coast of the island, 20km north of Palma de Mallorca, Soller and the resort area of Port de Soller is set in a wondrous green valley, backdropped by the dominant Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. The town and resort area is characterised by pretty rural scenery and quite heavy development to cater for the amount of tourists who frequent Soller to soak up its ambient and relaxing setting. A popular way to travel to Soller is via the Ferrocarril de Soller train, which runs from Palma de Mallorca six times a day. Although this journey takes more than an hour, the scenic views of the mountains are fantastic. Hiking tours are aplenty from Soller, likewise biking if you fancy exerting yourself. Both road biking and mountain biking are popular in the area thanks to the rugged terrain of the mountains and the old road through the Soller Pass, which twists and turns frequently, providing an excellent challenge. If that sounds like too much effort to sound like fun, do what the majority of visitors to Soller do and relax by the gentle port, which is truly majestic as the sun sets over the sea as you enjoy a glass of wine and something to eat at the many bars and restaurants that look out over this beautiful coastal setting.
Valdemossa
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Along the north-west coast of Mallorca, you will find the formidable 50km mountain chain of the Serra de Tramuntana, which stretches from Andratx in the west to the Cap Formentor in the north east. The scenery will stagger visitors, thanks to the seemingly strange limestone rock formations combining with pine wooded areas and occasional beaches. Those who have benefitted from car hire will truly get the best out of this mountainous range as public transport options are few and far between. The drive itself through the area is spectacular, donning great views across the island and the coast. Activities found at various points across the range include hiking and mountain biking.
The small village of Valdemossa is short distance from Soller, but perfectly typifies the beauty of this wonderful Balearic island. There are a handful of buses which take visitors to the island from Palma de Mallora, but offer a rather long-winded way of reaching the village compared to car. Valdemossa is perhaps most famous for counting Chopin and George Sand as former residents, who spent time here in 1938-1939 in the old monastery in the village. The views from the monastery are among the best on the island and it is easy to understand why many tourists pass through when looking to get the most from any visit to Mallorca. You are able to tour the monastery itself and the small cells found within. There is also an old palace nearby, where Chopin's time in the village is celebrated by regularly performed recitals.
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