Posing the question; with so many incredible worldwide sunny alcoves we choose to sojourn, why do millions of visitors return to the Mediterranean island of Mallorca? The answer is simple; as a holiday and celebration destination, Mallorca has it all.
The largest of the Balearics islands, Mallorca plays host to the 3rd largest airport in Spain, after Barcelona and Madrid. Palma airport dances with the buzz of northern Europeans – largely Brits, Germans and a smattering of Frenchies – but these days, Americans too. Folks from the US pay the small price of taking an 8 hour-hop across the north Atlantic, over Portugal and the Spanish mainland, to land into a warm welcome and experience the abundance of culture and quality tourism Mallorca has to offer.
Almost half the population of Mallorca speaks English daily, so these days there is no English/US language barrier (which sadly means less need to practice your school-learned Spanish!). For our Americans cousins, Mallorca offers a paradise-island where one can spoil yourself at a fraction of the cost of US equivalents like Martha’s Vinyard or Nantucket.
History of Mallorquin Tourism
Founded in 1905, Mallorca has the longest established tourist board in Spain (and possibly in the world!). The island has been a hospitable partner for holiday makers since 1950, so its true that the Mallorquin leisure industry is far from new. What is a surprise that despite such a proud legacy for tourism hospitality, the island is seeing a renewed influx of visitors. In real terms Mallorca has a 15% increase in tourist numbers year on year, who’s per person average daily spend is EUR 190, after accommodation. The upturn isn’t difficult to manage. At 100kms wide, and 75kms long, Mallorca’s towns and villages are filled with plenty of varied accommodations which are separated by agricultural lands, lush pine forests, olive, almond, and lemon groves, incredible mountain passes and a good selection of vineyards! Mallorquins have been honing and perfecting their tourism craft for more than a 100 years now – and you can feel it. Its no surprise that 80% of the Mallorquin economy is in some way related to tourism, so the Island and its inhabitants have an interest in ‘getting it right’.
One reason for the growing number of visitors, is that there are increasing volumes of celebration events being run on the Island because it is so well connected to Europe and The States, and has an abundance of spectacular venues and activities to take part in. If you are organising events, think wedding and family celebrations, business incentives or corporate conferences – Mallorca’s MICE partners will help you find the islands most exquisite food, unique stunning locations and world-class service. Year-round sunny weather is a bonus for the island, which makes luxury possible ‘en-masse’ at exceptional value – even when adding the airfare (and even from The States!).
Culture-Lux Mallorca; why now?
Post pandemic, there is a renewed vigour and desire to ‘vacation’, to ‘reward’, to ‘conference’. Visitors have a new-found drive for finding culture, for ‘experience over things’ and the find of gastronomic perfection. Whatever the reason or appetite for a visit to Mallorca, to bathe in crystal waters hugged by miles of sandy gold coastline; cycle over the Serra de Tramuntana mountains on silky smooth roads; hike and bird watch on the Ruta de Pedra en Sec; sail yachts from Palma to private pretty coves; to party upscale on rooftops Ibiza style; get married (yes, Mallorca is an amazing place to be marry!) or simply eating world class land and seafood – Mallorca satiates all tastes.
There is something for everyone on this island but what Mallorca does well – and with low-fuss, is affordable luxury. Palma has exceptional world-class hotels like EsPrincep Boutique, an affordable luxury boutique hotel with rooftop oasis, overlooking Palma’s sparkling bay twinkling in the foreground. Cocktail in one hand, reach out the other and you’ll be in almost touching distance of the spectacular gothic built Catedral de Mallorca, which makes Es Princep feel like a location that is halfway to heaven.
Let’s run for the hills & throw a party!
It is true, the hotels in Mallorca rival any major city, but the mountain towns call trumps with their retreat spaces that will blow the mind to its calmest state. Don’t miss the chance to find your inner peace and stay at Ratxó mountain retreat. Nestled deep in the Sierra de Tramontana mountain range, the stone built hotel is a serene escape for the senses that plays unique and exceptional hosts for lovers, friends or even colleagues. Wake up with the rustle of leaves swaying, eat meat and fish focused Mediterranean cuisine, attend a yoga class at sunrise…take some time and spoil yourself in this real-life luxury dream.
Celebration events anywhere in Mallorca have a magical quality. With so many wonderful locations to choose from, venues able to serve an abundance of beautiful fresh food, and 300+ warm nights a year – it’s no wonder many are turning to Mallorca as the new events location location location. However, as the island will spoil you for choice, you may need some help to guide you. Why not add a boat trip for your party and even add stargazing – a breathtaking voyage through the skies. Events agency specialists Pidelaluna, can help you pimp your event and run it with precision-delivery beyond your wildest dreams.
Events & Gatherings
Mallorca isn’t just sunshine and super beaches. It is jam-packed with cultural heritage in whichever corner of the island you find yourself. If you are looking for something a little different and educational, you can visit one of many museums, art galleries and historic towns. If you head to Son Pou de sa Majorala, you’ll find incredible UNESCO Talaiotic ruins which they have right there on the estate. The Talaiotic culture, originating around the first millennium BC, is known for these unique architecture and communal structures called ‘talaiots’ and the ruins provide insight into this prehistoric society who were defenders of the Balearic Islands. Son Pou can offer not just tours of the ruins, but also walks in the estate through the Olive and Almond groves. This can be followed by unique wine tasting events or natural, authentic culinary experiences which leverage the islands rich natural resources. Why not invite local chef Jose Cortes to cook your party some typical and traditional Balearic cuisine, offering guests a taste of the region’s heritage at a large tasting kitchen. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to eat the freshest local ingredients cooked for you – and with you!
From the land to sea; all aboard!
One of the best ways to see Mallorca is from the coastline on the decks of one of the thousands of beautiful boats stowed in lines, in the islands pristine Marinas. One of the most elegant, is the newly renovated FALCAO UNO, a classic luxury yacht built in 1965, now tenderly restored and sailing again. Ideal for private events and charters that accommodates up to 65 guests. Falco Uno operates from the port of Palma de Mallorca and offers thoughtful eco-conscious voyage opportunities. Originally a commission build by the Belgian royal family – and Falco’s luxury shines; classic design, modern amenities and a careful attention to Mallorca marine education and conservation.
The sea air will build your appetite. Find time to visit Es Figueral Nou for a lavish lunch in this a boutique rural hotel, which has a hint of the Italian hills. Here the incredible Daniel Perez (chef compare of the famous to Santi Taura), will cook for you with panache and style. Simple mushroom risotto, followed by local rabbit and unbeatable floating island with sunshine-ripe oranges.
If you have room in the evening, you could ‘stop-by’ their sister hotel El Llorenç to sample the Michelin tasting menu cooked by Santi himself, which will take you on a modern gastronomic journey to discover the island’s heritage cuisines using a twist on recipes from Islands history.
Spa yourself
Its easy to be busy in Mallorca. So much to do and see. But what about those days where you want to stop, recharge and relax? Mallorca has a plethora of pamper-worthy Spa venues that will nourish sunkissed skin and tend to aching muscles. For large groups, non-better than the aromaroom at SPA | Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor. Think dark marble, low lights and transformative scents. It’s a world class spa, accessible at brilliant value day rates.
What to Wear
Mallorca is an island of seasons, but broadly think mild winters and hot summers. You might throw on a short down jacket in the cooler nights of winter and dressing heat-appropriate and with style in the summer, is sometimes tricky! Dressing well isn’t a must, but most of the locals do, perhaps with more of a relaxed feel than Italian or French style. Cotton and linen work best to keep cool. In the spring and autumn, for the evenings you’ll need long trousers and a jumper for sure. If you get stuck without the right outfit, don’t despair. Treat yourself to an afternoon shop on the equisite James the 3rd Street (think high end Spanish brands packed tightly into pretty streets, without having to navigate the chaos of Oxford St!)
When to Travel
June & September see pleasant average temperatures between 18 – 28 degrees Celsius, making these late spring and early autumn months the best time to travel. In between, a bit hotter. For summer think up to 40 degrees and winter down to 10 or so. Carry a brolly Jan-April as in the winter there a few months with daily welcome rainfall, which help keep the islands flora green and luscious.
Where to stay
- Can Marqués Palace – Art focused hotel built in a Palace
- Puro Grand – Modern Boutique Hotel set in Old Town
- Zoetry – Luxury for big guest parties
Where to eat
- Shellfish: A~mar Sushi and Seafood bar – Santa Catalina Market
- Paella: El Bungalow – Can Pastilla
- Seafood: Pesquero – Marina de Palma
- Tapas: La Rosa Vermutería – Palma Central
- Japanese: Wasabi – Ciudad Jardin
- Meat: Fonoll Grill – Plajita de Palma
How to Travel
Internally, moving round the island by water and hanging out on the rooftops is the coolest way to operate here, so take advantage of the opportunity to be close to nature at sea and sky level. But actually getting to Mallorca, there means either hopping on a plane, or walking or driving on(to) a boat.
Air
- From United Kingdom: Ryanair/BA links
- From the US: United Cheap Flights to Palma de Mallorca from $ 827 | United Airlines
Boat
- Trasmed GLE: They provide up to 23 weekly sailings.
- Ferries to Sicily, Sardinia, Morocco, Tunisia, Spain and Albania: GNV Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV)
I am SJ. Marketeer, yogi, traveller, wine drinker and food enthusiast. My love of food and culture was sparked by formative adventures, which largely consisted of day-long ferry voyages to Cherbourg, and being taught how to ‘do it like the French do’; dipping croissants into hot chocolate, eating garlic laced snails and supping down fresh oysters.
Wherever the destination, I have a passion for experiencing what’s ‘local’, be it cuisine or culture, and enjoying both the simple and decadent. I hope you enjoy my contributions.
Follow me on Twitter @SarahJaneDyke
