Isles of smiles
Marjorie Yue says Spain’s beaiutiful Balearics offer something for every type of holidaymaker
Lying 200 miles off the coast of Valencia, Spain’s Balearic archipelago has an island for every type of holiday – whether it’s partying on hedonistic Ibiza, chilling on laidback Menorca, exploring on a city break in Balearic capital Majorca’s Palma or soaking up the sun on Formentera’s Caribbeanesque beaches.
Now the Balearics are on the green list for no-quarantine travel, here’s our pick of the highlights...
MAJORCA Capital of chic
Once overlooked by visitors passing through on their way to Majorca’s popular resorts, the capital of the Balearic islands is now a destination in its own right and a favourite choice for a weekend away.
The jewel in the city’s crown is the magnificent 14thcentury Gothic cathedral, known as La Seu, in the old quarter.
In the west of the city, perched on a hilltop, Spain’s only round castle, medieval Bellver lives up to its Catalan name, commanding the most spectacular “lovely views” of the Bay of Palma.
For some retail therapy, head to Passeig de Born, where high street names sit alongside luxury designers. And tucked down the narrow sidestreets are independent boutiques and cosy tapas bars.
Scenic train ride
Get a ticket to ride on the famous antique train that runs between Palma and the village of Soller in the Serra de Tramutana. In the 19th century, the train carried citrus fruits from Soller to the capital, earning it the nickname of The Orange Express.
Today, the 100-year-old train transports tourists on an hour-long journey along the 17-mile narrow gauge railway track.
Ascending through orange, lemon and olive groves, rattling past breathtaking scenery, the train makes just one stop – at Bunyola Station in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, before pulling into Soller. At the quaint station, you catch a trolley car on the island’s first electric tram line for the leisurely half-hour ride to the Port of Soller, along narrow village streets, through scented groves, and finally winding round the port marina. trendesoller.com
Bountiful beaches
Blessed with more than 30 miles of glorious sands, sunseekers are spoilt for choice on Majorca. This year sees some 25 beaches flying the iconic Blue Flag, including Cala
Mondragó. Sheltered between two rocky headlands, against a backdrop of pine trees, is part of the 1,893-acre protected Modrago Natural Park in the south east of the island.
Unspoilt soft white sands and crystal-clear, gentle waters make it especially popular with families.
But only a quarter of a mile away is Cala S’amarador – Mondragó’s bigger and equally stunning sister beach is connected by a picturesque mountain path.
MENORCA Historic capital
Lying on the western tip is the island’s oldest city – it was formerly the capital until the British who ruled Menorca in the 18th century moved it to Mahon on the east coast.
Ciutadella may not be able to boast the world’s second biggest natural port, but it rivals Mahon in historic architectural gems, living up to its nickname Vella i Bella (the old and beautiful).
Plaça Des Born, the main square, is home to the Gothic-style City Hall, built on top of the old Arab citadel, and grand 19th-century palaces including the neoclassical Palau Torre-saura.
An obelisk at its centre was raised to commemorate the lives lost in the defeat by the Turks in 1558.
And a visit to 14th-century Santa Maria of Ciutadella Cathedral, the island’s best-preserved Gothic building, is a must for its a huge marble altar and the curious Chapel of Animas.
High point
Right in the centre of the island lies Monte Toro, Menorca’s highest mountain, which is designated an ANEI (protected natural area).
Soaring 1,175 feet above sea level, it’s worth making the journey to the summit for the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views.
The hike to the top takes around two hours from the charming whitewashed village of Es Mercadel at the foot of Monte Toro.
But if you think that’s a trek too far, you can cycle or drive to the summit.
Perched on the top is a medieval sanctuary and convent dedicated to Nuestra Señora de Monte Toro, regarded as one of island’s most spiritual places.