Exotic and irresistible Mallorca
In recent years, one of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca has been quietly reinventing itself through new hotels, a revival of old arts by the modern creative generation and a growing number of Michelin-starred restaurants. This gentle evolution is most pronounced and evident in the quiet capital, Palma. Here, the distinctive old town 45km from the Palma airport, with its majestic cathedral and pretty cobbled streets are made for wandering, while chic boutiques, contemporary art galleries and the excellent waterfront attract an increasingly cosmopolitan crowd. These are our recommendations for this renowned Spanish hotspot.
Spain’s fairytale villages
Our favourite beaches
The sweeping Ca’n Pere Antoni is a favourite beach in the city, with locals flocking here to lie on the fine white sand and soak up the beneficial sun. From here, you can set off on a bike ride along the coastal promenade to the former fishing village of Portixol, which now has a small harbour and some excellent seafood restaurants. A 45-minute drive by the Palma airport taxi northwest, the charming town of Banyalbufar is ideal for a wonderful day trip from Palma and has a beautiful, eponymous bay. Surrounded by steep cliffs and terraces with a narrow pebbly strip for relaxing, which remains shady for hours and is a hidden spot for a refreshing swim in clear waters.
ACCOMMODATION
In a quiet corner of the old town above the historic Baluard del Príncep (one of two bastions dating back to when it was a fortified town), Es Princep has spectacular views of the Bay of Palma from its rooftop terrace. Inside, the look is simple and modern. The warm atmosphere created by the owners is relaxed and unpretentious. The rooms are clad in neutral tones and furnished with warm wooden furniture, brass fixtures and in the bathrooms you will find natural stone sinks. Choose between cityscape or sea views.
FAST
For a great dining experience, book a table at the top restaurant Bala Roja, where the menu ranges from traditional local flavours with a modern twist. Make sure you’re hungry to make the most of the full tasting menu.
Also in the old town is Toque de Queda, a 15th-century tapas restaurant and bar, where cheese dishes and cervezas are served at cute, quaint tables. For something equally unpretentious, head to Duke in the Santa Catalina neighbourhood. Created by a pair of local surfing friends a decade ago, it features a diverse menu, ranging from Thai curry and pasta dishes to gourmet burgers.
The Best Rooftop Bar
One of the biggest and best bars in Mallorca is Almaq. It’s quiet by day, but the intensity ramps up in the evenings as it becomes the perfect place to start your night out with a cocktail. The menu includes the freshest salads and the tastiest tapas: fried squid with Majorcan seaweed, caramelized onion croquettes with Mahón cheese and octopus ceviche