Leisure travel might be on hold for now, but who isn’t dreaming of the day we can step off a plane into paradise in the not too distant future? One of Britain’s most visited and loved short-haul destinations, Mallorca, is teeming with cultural sites, stunning scenery, and it also happens to be blessed with 300 sunny days per year.
We asked those in the know at Zafiro Hotels to give their reasons why a trip to Mallorca should be top of your list. With so much to offer, from family fun to mood-boosting experiences, Zafiro Hotels is the family-run brand that reshaped hospitality in the Balearics with its ‘freedom of choice’ approach, making it the ideal base to discover this stunning island.
Natural wonders
Famous for its pristine beaches boasting crystalline waters and soft white sand, Mallorca has 29 beaches awarded the high accolade of the ‘Blue Flag.’ Those preferring a bucolic landscape must hike Serra de Tramuntana, a mountain range packed with rocky ravines and twisting coastal pathways, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Gourmet dining
Well known for its superb cuisine with top-quality restaurants scattered across the island, Mallorca is on every bon vivants’ radar. From local Mallorcan cuisine to Mediterranean offerings and Asian specialities, the island boasts an array of top-quality eateries to dine at. Try the local Tumbet – a delicious vegetable dish – and dig in to the finest and freshest seafood servings, salt cold and plentiful pork-filled plates.
Family fun hotels
Families seeking togetherness will be astounded by the kid-friendly hospitality at Zafiro Palace Palmanova. The resort features specially designed pools for children, a pirate ship and giant ‘Water Bubble’ in the pool and is close to Palma Aquarium, where little guests can swim with stingrays or – for the bravest – sharks!
Scenic cycling
Widely considered to be one of the finest cycling destinations in Europe, what better way to explore Mallorca’s well-kept roads and mix of flat and mountainous terrain than by bike? Rent a bike, grab a route ideal for your level of cycling and head off for a day of discovering what glorious landscapes this island has to offer.
Soaring wine destination
The rural town of Binissalem has been ranked Mallorca’s top destination for those wine aficionados out there. Departing from the village, a Gourmet Train and Wine Tour takes wine buffs around the region’s best vineyards and bodegas. Just make sure to save enough room in your case for a bottle or two!
Golfing paradise
With over 20 golf courses, Mallorca’s multi-facetted landscape and perfect climate make it a premium destination for golfing holidays. Just steps away from the prestigious Andratx Golf Club, the newest five-star Zafiro Hotel’s property – Zafiro Palace Andratx – will be opening its doors later this year.
Sensational Palma
Not just a seaside city but a real open-air museum, the history-rich capital of Mallorca boasts stunning landmarks such as La Seu Cathedral and the Banys Arabs (Moorish Bathhouse). Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the Old Town and discover hidden taverns and craft shops.
Surrealistic art scene
Visit Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró, where a wide collection of works of art by the renowned Spanish surrealist Joan Miró, who spent most of his life in the island, is treasured. Mirò-inspired masterpieces by contemporary artists Alexander Calder and Dennis Oppenheim are also nestled in the Old Town.
Balearic Island hopping
The Balearic Archipelago is made up of four very different islands; Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. From Puerto de Alcùdia in northern Mallorca, travellers can ferry to the wild isle of Menorca with its cobalt blue inlets, while vibrant Ibiza is easy to reach from Palma de Mallorca for a day of shopping at the iconic Las Dalias Market.
Romantic moments
Lovers can enjoy evening boat rides departing from Puerto de Alcùdia and soak up the beauty of the Mallorcan sunsets among other peaceful excursions. For a truly romantic stay, Zafiro Palace Alcùdia’s sophisticated Junior Penthouse Suites have been designed with couples in mind and boast a top floor terrace, complete with a Jacuzzi and Bali bed for the ultimate in privacy and relaxation.
