The best sites of the Balearic Islands: a traveller’s guide

The Balearic Islands are an archipelago off the coast of mainland Spain. While there are other smaller islands, the four most famous include Formentera, Menorca, Ibiza and Mallorca. As well as the islands enjoying some of Spain’s bright and sunny weather, these islands are also bursting full of culture. You’ll find history, gothic cathedrals and fresh cuisine on any one of these islands. If you’re planning to do a round-trip of these Spanish islands, then you may want to plan out each island individually. That way, you can make the most of each island’s unique culture. 

Mallorca

Mallorca is a stunning resort that is both full of modern and natural beauty. Not only are its shallows perfect for families with small children, but it is also surrounded by restaurants and shops, so there’s no need to go looking for the closest seaside town for somewhere to eat. If your kids are particularly energetic, there are aqua parks, sea life centres and plenty of adventure playgrounds they will love. Thanks to this area’s popularity, it is home to plenty of luxurious villas to stay in. If you’re looking for villas in Mallorca, you will find an abundance of self-catered rentals in Pollensa or Cala D’or. 

Dalt Vila

Ibiza may be more recently known for its music scene; however, it is also a Balearic Island that is saturated in history. Dalt Vila is the old town of Ibiza and has everything you would expect from a historical area: cobbled streets, restaurants and art galleries. The maze-like cobbled streets are perfect for getting lost in during warm summer evenings and discovering new places to enjoy a cold glass of wine. For those who want to explore sites and exhibits that are rich in history, there is also an Archaeology Museum which is even home to prehistoric findings. 

 

Palma de Mallorca

If you’re looking for the seaside Balearic Island of dreams, then Palma de Mallorca should tick a lot of boxes for you. It’s said that this city benefits from year-round sunny or pleasant weather and has a cathedral which can be seen from almost any point in the city. This city isn’t just home to one stretch of beach, either. It’s home to a number of beaches, so no need to worry if the first one you come across is too busy. This city is also dazzling enough to have its own yacht club. If you plan on staying in a villa, then you will be pleased by the local fish market, which makes for the perfect opportunity to add freshly-caught fish to your menu. 

Valldemossa 

For many visitors, the Balearic Islands provide an opportunity for escapism. The rolling hills, endless coastline and beautiful towns offer an opportunity to take the mind away from home. If it’s stunning towns you’re after, then Valldemossa could be the Balearic town you’ve been dreaming off. Shrouded by hillsides full of olive groves and surrounded by the region’s mountains, this is the best place to spend a day walking. Whether you visit the monastery or dip in and out of restaurants or cafes while walking the local streets, there is something for everyone in this town that delivers charm by the bucket-full. There are also nearby mountain trails which are ideal for hikers who are after a more substantial walk. 

Formentera

Formentera is known for its pirating history, and more recently, its stunning beaches. You’ll find watchtowers dotted all around this island, a sign of its past illegal shipping history. While this island has had a chequered history in terms of its warfare with pirates and the plague, today it is the ideal place to enjoy water sports or a cycling tour. This island isn’t very big, and so it’s a great place to adventure on your bike if you’re feeling up to the exercise. At its best, this island is incredibly sunny and hot, so if you do intend to spend your day navigating hills and beaches, stay well-hydrated and pack food with you for your journey. Your reward for cycling will be plenty of secluded sandy bays to spend the rest of your day by the water. 

The Balearic Islands have such a vibrant culture, history and community you might find it hard to choose where to settle. You may even opt for a tour of the four major islands, with maybe a stop-off or two to the smaller islands. Wherever you go, be sure to adopt an adventurous spirit.