As if it were a small continent in
itself, Mallorca possesses a variety of landscapes that belittle
the image of sun and sand that has made it so popular. North
American author Gertrude Stein wrote ´´if you
like paradise, Majorca is paradise¨. A mountainous barrier
from the mainland, on the northern coast, the Sierra de Tramuntana,
adds to the variety of landscapes that characterise the island.
This massif stretches from the islet of SA Dragonera to the
cape of Formentor, a distance of over one hundred kilometres.
The Islands of Menorca, Ibeza, and Formentera , are all within
a couple of hours cruising.
Statistics reveal Mallorca enjoys two
thousand four hundred hours of sun a year and the average
temperature is 21ºC.
There is over five hundred and fifty kilometres of coastline
to explore, with lots of Calas and Ports to investigate, enabling
you to feel like you have discovered places for the first
time. It is not unusual to find that you may feel like you
are the only boat sailing out on the West Coast with only
deep blue seas, rugged landscape and school of dolphins to
keep you company.
Mallorca offers more than just sun,
sea and sand. She will leave a memory that will be treasured
forever.
Palma
As the capital of the Balearic Islands,
it has become a cosmopolitan city offering a variety of
entertainment and tourist sights for all the family. This
city is best seen from the bay of Palma, which is 20 kilometres
wide, and 25 kilometres in length. When leaving or arriving
into the port of Palma you are treated to a fine view of all
the places that cannot be missed: The Castell de Bellver,
sa Llotja, Almudaina and the Cathedreal.
Every summer Palma becomes the capital
of sailing. The Copa del Rey is a prestige competition that
attracts the finest sailors, such as the Royal Family.
Palma promenade running all the way from Club de Mar to The
Palma Royal Nautical Club offers a wide variety of bars, restaurants,
shops and nightclubs.
On leaving the bay of Palma you may
either decide to head west towards Andratx or North East towards
Alcudia and Pollenca. Either way you will be amazed with the
scenery and landscape of this beautiful Island.
North East
Es Trenc
On the route towards Pollenca it is
imperative that you stop off at Es Trenc. It is the only remaining
large beach on Mallorca not to have been developed. The beach
is part of a protected area covering 1´492 hectares,
and runs at 3.5 kilometres long. The white sand slopes gently
down to the transparent waters and there are restaurant/bars
dotted along the beach. Nudism is practised on one stretch
of the beach
From there you could stop off at Mondrago
for a swim or snorkel. This area is caught between preservation
and tourist developments, set in the Mondrago Natural Park.
There are a couple of restaurant/bars there too if you choose
to stop off for lunch.
Cala dÓr is the next main development
from Palma. Mooring overnight is recommended, as there are
many fantastic restaurants and bars to choose from. The port
is very prestigious and offers a variety of facilities for
everyone.
You could then go onto Alcudia, Pollensa
or Formentor.
The mooring at Formentor is very good, and the Hotel, which
is very popular with celebrities and film stars, offers large
selection for lunch and dinner. Reservations are recommended.
From there you could then go round
the Cap de Formentor down the West Coast towards Sa Calobra,
which is the most outstanding feature of this section of rugged
coastline. You could go for a walk into the gorge or take
a stroll along the beach and get lost in the beauty of the
scenery.
All along the West Coast you will find quirky and wonderful
Calas to anchor in and have lunch. There is also Port de Soller
to stroll around the shops and have a café on the waterfront.
You could take one day, or three to travel down the Coastline.
Time is yours and you set the pace.
Portals Nous
The place to be seen and heard. Portals
moor the most luxurious yachts on the island. Many a celebrity
has been seen here drinking coffee or sipping on a large ´copa
de vino´. There are restaurants to suit all tastes and
bars to suit all moods. There are also a couple of nightclubs
in the marina. It is a very lively, happening place and if
you like the stylish life at the pace of Spain, then a night
in Portals is a must. You never know whom you may see….
Cabrera
The trip to the Cabrera National Marine
and Terrestrail Park is a spectacular experience. In the past
the island was a haven for pirates, sailors and fishermen,
and it has always remained practically uninhabited, except
during the War of Independence, when it served as a prison
for approximately 6,000 French soldiers, who were confined
on the island for five years, where the majority died. You
are restricted to where you can walk and what you can do on
the island, but it is well worth the visit. Snorkelling is
a must and diving is permitted providing you have a permit
and the correct documentation. This can all be arranged 2
weeks prior to travel.
Important Travel Notes
Airport – San
Juan Palma De Mallorca which is 15 minutes from Palma and
1 hour from Pollensa.
Credit Cards –
All major credit cards are taken with photo ID
Currency – Euro
Language – Mallorquin
and Spanish is the main language. Most bars and restaurants
understand English, but they do like travellers to make an
effort with the language
Telephone –
The code for Mallorca is 34
Tipping – It
is not compulsory to tip, but if the service and food is good
then tip accordingly. Most foreigners tip 10%