If you’re looking for a slice of Mediterranean paradise, Mallorca, Spain, will more than fit the bill. This Spanish paradise is the largest Balearic island and arguably the most popular for holiday seekers. I’ve actually heard a rumor that if you don’t get out of bed early enough, you won’t get one of the highly sought after beach chairs… those pensioners can be ruthless. But by all accounts, its popularity is well deserved. Even in the dreary months of winter, the sun still shines and the temperatures are mild, creating the perfect winter blues pick-me-up. Given that it is an island, there are plenty of beaches for sun-deprived travelers to stretch out upon, from white-sanded havens to rockier, less populated inlets.
Although it has the all the holiday essentials (sun, palm trees, sand) Mallorca is more than just a beachside getaway. It also boasts castles, caves and the Serra de Tramuntana, a mountain range along the northwest coast. The landscape is a mix of beach, pine trees, and jutting rock, welcoming the more adventurous tourist. When the beach becomes a bit boring, or maybe your sunburn needs a break, try hiking or biking up to Santueri Castle in the south-east. The outpost offers fantastic views that make the trek worthwhile (of course, you could also drive). For a more leisurely experience, take a walk through Puerto de Soller, the Old Port, for a little shopping or lunch overlooking the marina.
When hunger does strike, you’ll have no problem finding something satisfying. The island is filled with tasty options. Mallorca restaurants cater to all tourists, meaning pizza, sandwiches and burgers can be found, as well as more traditional Spanish fare, such as paella. Technically, paella, that delicious rice based concoction, is not a typical Mallorcan dish. Let’s be honest though, who goes to Spain, or one of its islands, and doesn’t expect to see paella? Whether a regional specialty or not, I think I would cry if it wasn’t listed on a Spanish menu. Local specialties, like Sobrassada, or Mallorcan sausage (along the lines of chorizo), and olives also abound. There’s actually an annual olive fair in November where visitors can sample a wide array of olive based products, including, of course, olive oil. The fair features other treats too, like regional wine. Don’t worry, you don’t have to attend a fair to try lovely Mallorcan wines, but you could always stop by one of the several vineyards found across the island.
So, dust off your sunglasses, find your sandals and check out My Destination Mallorca to discover more about this beautiful slice of paradise.
Article written by M.E. Reidy.
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