An Introduction to Majorca – the biggest of the Balearic Islands | Spain
Majorca is the biggest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community and province in Spain. With Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera, the island forms part of an archipelago in the western Mediterranean sea off Spain. Majorca is also known as Mallorca, the name of the island in Catalan, which is one of the island’s official languages (the other is Spanish, of course). The name means ‘the bigger one’ while Menorca is ‘the smaller one’. Its capital, Palma, is also capital of the Balearics group. With mild winters and scorching summers, the island is very popular with European visitors looking to enjoy the excellent climate. In an average year, there are 21 million visitors flying via Majorca airport.
A Shoreline in Majorca, Spain / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Andrew Havis
Majorca’s Beaches
Majorca has more than its fair share of sun, sea and sand – in fact, it’s known for having some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean. The only problem for visitors is which beach to choose. Magaluf in the south west is every popular, with 900 metres of beach, a new promenade and lots of bars and restaurants. It’s great for singles and young couples as the area is known for its nightlife. In fact, it’s the island’s nightclub capital. Families may prefer somewhere a bit quieter.
You can find a great family beach at Alcudia. Not only is the sand as fine as that on a golf course, but there’s a children’s playground and shallow water. Lots of watersports and restaurants on the beach make this the perfect place for a day out. With three beaches, Palma Nova is another good option. If you’re not bothered about watersports then Cala Tuent in the north east and Calas de Mallorca in the south east both offer plenty of space for sun worshippers – and nice scenery too!
Palma Majorca, Spain / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by John Burke
Exploring the Capital
If you want to spend some time out of the sun, there’s still plenty to do in Majorca. Palma is a good place to start. You can pick up transport around the island from Plaça d’Espanya which is underneath a large park. Kids will enjoy the themed play areas while you wait. Included in Palma’s chequered history is a period of Moorish rule and one of its most famous sights, La Seu, is a cathedral built on top of what used to be a mosque. This heritage is also on show in the warren-like Old City whose narrow streets are well worth exploring and the Arab Baths, though in disrepair, are well worth a look.
Outside the capital are other historic and picturesque sights, so be sure to leave the beach for a sightseeing trip at some point during your stay.
Marian Jaime writes for Suntransfers who offer transfers from Majorca airport to get your holiday off to a fabulous start.
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