Spain’s most popular island through the eyes of three savvy locals
There’s much to explore on this Mediterranean island. Our insiders show you where to go.
If you’re a visitor to Mallorca – I prefer “visitor” to “tourist” – I’d suggest staying somewhere quiet, but unique. With so much beautiful nature and breathtaking views to take in, you’re spoilt for choice but the three that do it best are Es Blau des Nord, Es Raco d’Arta and the Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor.
When it comes to food, I like taking people to Bodega Morey for Mallorcan tapas and Cafe Es Pes de sa Palla for delicious, local produce and a menu with something for every taste. They’re both in Palma.
For shopping, of course, a stop into Paparkone Studio is a must. A handcrafted ceramic object is the perfect souvenir from your time on Mallorca. Another wonderful local artisan is Mimbreria Vidal, who specialises in wickerwork and baskets. I like the Es Baluard Museum shop, too, where you can find pieces by the designer Chiara Ferrari.
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If you want to experience local art and craft, the island has a rich history of artisans, from traditional makers to the next generation who have come here to be inspired. Check out ABA ART Lab, Biblioteca de Cort (the Cort Public Library) and La Misericordia exhibition space during your stay. See abaart.com
If you crave a bit of fresh air, hike from Soller to Deia, with a stop at Finca Son Mico for a breakfast of homemade cakes and pastries. There’s really nothing like it.
For an adults-only escape, Gran Hotel Margalida; something about the quietness of Banyalbufar village makes you immediately slow down. Hotel Corazon has a creative approach to hospitality. The way the interiors, art, nature and design come together is great.
In Palma, Nano Coffee Lab and The Barn are great for coffee; Rosevelvet Bakery for breakfast or brunch, and Petit La Sang is an intimate wine bar with great organic wines. See thebarn.de, rosevelvet.es, barlasang.com
For dinner, Brutus in nearby El Terreno has a beautiful brutalist-inspired interior and a really nice energy. See brutusrestaurante.com
If you’re interested in art, architecture or design, Fundacio Miro Mallorca, which is dedicated to the work of Joan Miro, is an absolute must.
Even after living here for several years, I still love wandering Palma’s Old Town. The narrow streets, hidden courtyards and small squares make it such a special place. Explore without a fixed route, especially around the cathedral. On Saturdays, drop into the market in Alaro, about 30 kilometres from Palma. There’s so much to try there. If you visit Soller, I recommend Pueblo Soller for lunch and Can Prunera museum for a coffee in its beautiful garden. It also has an amazing creative space upstairs where kids can make things.
Of course, there’s so much more to explore on Mallorca. In the south-east, visit the market in Santanyi, while up north, Alcudia and Playa de Muro, have some of the most beautiful beaches, with shallow turquoise water and long stretches of sand, perfect for families. One of the most spectacular places is Sa Calobra, on the north-west coast. The winding drive through the mountains is an experience in itself and the landscape is absolutely breathtaking.
Set in the tiny village of Ariany, Ynaira Hotel is the perfect place to slow down, enjoy the peace and quiet and truly relax. If you’re looking for something more central, boutique Hotel Can Cera in Palma is charming. A small, adults-only hotel in Palma’s Old Town, it’s ideal for exploring the city on foot and soaking up its atmosphere.
Voro has the best-tasting menu in the Balearic Islands. Located in Cap Vermell Grand Hotel in Canyamel, it has two Michelin stars and is fantastic experiential dining. See vororestaurant.com
For a more simple, but still excellent, option, there’s Ses Coves de Campanet. It serves outstanding produce cooked over the grill. It’s up in the mountains near the Coves de Campanet, a cave system popular with sightseers. See covesdecampanet.com/en/restaurant
For a walk along some of the most beautiful coves on the island, visit Mondrago Natural Park. On the northernmost tip of Mallorca, Formentor Lighthouse, built in 1863, is another truly magical spot.
The place to buy local, seasonal produce straight from those who grow it is Sineu Market (open Wednesdays). See mercatsineu.net Otherwise, Mercat de l’Olivar in Palma is perfect for both local shopping and eating, and is open Monday to Saturday. See mercatolivar.com
For more authentic local must-dos, Valldemossa is a beautiful village where you have to try a coca de patata, a soft, sweet, potato bun that’s a specialty. Restaurant Es Cruce also offers traditional fare and is where all the locals go to eat. When you want to take a day trip, go to Pollenca and Port de Pollenca, a historic town and its seaside port, best discovered at your own pace.
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