The scent of pine forests meets the salt breeze of the Mediterranean as you step onto the sun-drenched shores of Majorca.
In This Article
Explore the Serra de Tramuntana Mountains
The rugged Tramuntana mountain range runs along the northwest coast of Majorca and is a UNESCO World heritage site. Drive the winding road from Valldemossa to Deia for some of the most dramatic coastal views in the Balearic Islands. Stop at the hilltop village of Valldemossa, where Chopin once wintered, and explore its monastery and gardens. The mountains offer hiking trails through ancient olive groves and limestone peaks that reward you with panoramic sea views. For a true adventure, hike the drystone-walled paths that have connected these villages for centuries. The varied terrain means hikers of all levels can find suitable routes, from gentle walks through terraced orchards to challenging ascents up sheer limestone faces. The GR-221, also known as the Drystone Route, is the most famous long-distance trail, running the length of the mountain range and passing through villages where you can rest at rustic refuges and sample local hospitality.
Relax on the Beaches of Playa de Palma and Cala d’Or
Majorca boasts some of the finest beaches in the Mediterranean. Playa de Palma stretches for miles with golden sand and a lively promenade lined with restaurants and bars. For something more secluded, head to the coves of Cala d’Or where turquoise waters lap against soft white sand. Cala Mondrago and Cala Llombards offer natural beauty with fewer crowds. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating the afternoon away beneath the Mediterranean sun. The eastern coast near Cala Ratjada offers dramatic sea cliffs and hidden sandy pockets that are only accessible by foot or by boat, rewarding adventurous beachgoers with near-empty stretches even in August. Many of the beaches have excellent facilities including sunbed rentals, water sports equipment, and beachside chiringuitos serving fresh seafood and cold drinks throughout the day.
Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria in Palma
La Seu, as the locals call it, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that dominates the Palma skyline. Built on the site of a former mosque, the cathedral’s construction began in the 13th century and continued for centuries. Step inside to see the stunning rose window, one of the largest in the world, which casts a kaleidoscope of coloured light across the interior. The modern art installations by Miquel Barceló add a contemporary contrast to the ancient stonework. The cathedral sits right on the waterfront, making for spectacular sunset photographs. The guided tours explain the building’s complex history, including Gaudí’s brief involvement in restoration work during the early 20th century, when he removed the original Gothic altarpiece and rearranged the choir stalls. The cathedral museum houses religious art and artifacts spanning seven centuries of Majorcan history.
Savor Majorcan Cuisine and Local Wine
Majorcan food is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Catalan influences. Try the local sobrasada, a spreadable cured sausage made with paprika, or tumbet, a vegetable dish similar to ratatouille. Fresh seafood is abundant, and the local gin made from grapes, called pomada, is the perfect summer refreshment. Visit a bodega in the wine region of Binissalem to taste the native Manto Negro grape variety. The island’s markets, especially the one in Sineu, are wonderful places to sample local cheeses, olives, and artisan breads. The Tuesday market in Sineu is the oldest on the island, dating back to the 14th century, and draws farmers and artisans from across central Majorca. The local cuisine also features ensaïmada, a spiral-shaped pastry dusted with sugar that makes a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack, and the hearty sopas mallorquinas, a bread-based soup flavoured with vegetables and herbs that has sustained farmers and fishermen for generations.
Discover the Caves of Drach
Located near Porto Cristo on the east coast, the Caves of Drach are a spectacular underground wonderland. These massive limestone caves stretch for nearly two kilometres and feature one of the largest underground lakes in the world, Lake Martel. A guided tour takes you through chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites in dramatic formations, culminating in a classical music concert performed from boats on the lake. The experience is surreal and unforgettable, a cool escape from the heat of the Majorcan sun. The caves maintain a constant temperature of around 21 degrees Celsius year-round, making them a comfortable and popular destination regardless of the season. The concert on Lake Martel, performed by a quartet of musicians in traditional costume, has become one of the most iconic experiences in the Balearic Islands, with the natural acoustics of the cavern creating an extraordinary sound quality that no concert hall can replicate.
Have you ever dreamed of exploring the caves and coastlines of Majorca?
Explore all our Spain travel guides, from Barcelona Gaudí to Andalusia plazas.
Explore More
If you enjoyed this article, you might also like:
We spent two weeks in Majorca and barely scratched the surface. Everyone heads to the beach resorts but the real magic is inland — the Tramuntana mountains, the hilltop villages like Fornalutx and Valldemossa, and the hidden coves along the north coast. If you’re hiring a car, don’t miss the drive over the Coll de Sóller pass. Absolutely breathtaking.