October in the UK is when the nights start to draw in, with a chill entering the air that will stay with us until April. What better time to escape to warmer climes, soaking up those delightful rays of sun elsewhere? You may think that this means a week-long trip and at least a four-hour flight, but in fact, a weekend in Mallorca can bring you all the delights without even needing to use up your precious annual leave, offering warm sunny weather and so much to do. If a Mallorcan escape is calling your name, here’s where to go to make the most of it.
A fun-filled weekend in Mallorca
Where to sunbath
Cala Formentera
This stunning beach is tucked away in the north-west of the island, offering an incredibly picturesque backdrop of mountain and pine trees. Bringing the Caribbean to Mallorca, it has fine white sands, crystal-clear waters and plenty of bars and restaurants – perfect for when you’ve worked up an appetite from all that sunbathing! This beach gets busy during the summer, meaning an October weekend in Mallorca is the perfect time to go.
Es Calo des Moro Beach
Es Calo des Moro is slightly difficult to reach by land due to its rocky approach, making a boat charter – Mallorca experience a much more relaxing option. Either way, this protected Cala is pure paradise, definitely worth the extra effort. Ideal for couples looking for a romantic place to swim and relax together.
Cala Mesquida Beach
A beautiful and remote 300m stretch of sand, featuring all-natural sand dunes and pine trees, a couple of beach bars and… not a lot else! This beach is perfect for when you just want to relax and read your book in peace, or to go for a gentle stroll, spotting some of the native bird colonies that have made this their home.
Where to hang out
Feria de la Sobrasada, Friday 18th October
When in the Balearics, you simply have to try a Sobrasada, one of the region’s famous spicy sausages. And what better place to do it than at a festival dedicated to the very same? At this all-day event you can try out all different flavours and recipes. Some are spicier than others – you have been warned!
‘Sa Fira’ in Santanyí, Saturday 19th October
This is ideal for a family day out, with a selection of exciting children’s activities, such as pony rides, bouncy castles and competitions, on offer. At the same time, there is delicious artisan produce to entice the grown-ups. Enjoy a selection of freshly-made jams, seasonal vegetables and home-made wine on your weekend in Mallorca.
Feria de Otoño y del Vino, Monday 21st October
Do you love nothing more than a large glass of fine wine? Then the Feria de Otoño y del Vino is the place for you, celebrating all the amazing grapes that Mallorca produces and the history of wine in the region. Wine culture was introduced to this region by the Romans, and has stayed strong ever since!
Where to eat
Forn De Sant Joan
Located in a former 19th-century bakery, this historic building was converted into a restaurant by its owner in 1992 and hasn’t looked back. A family business serving up exquisite dishes, ranging from a five-course tasting menu to a light, informal bites, this restaurant has you covered no matter what the occasion. Highlights include marinated Black Angus rib loin, caramelized shallots and ají amarillo purée and the penne with truffle & parmesan cheese and egg tempura.
Salvia Restaurant
No weekend in Mallorca is complete without a visit to this beautiful mansion house hotel. Salvia hosts an excellent restaurant where you will find an innovative menu citing Mediterranean and Asian influences, all in a breathtaking location in the heart of Soller. Watch the sun set over the Tramuntana Mountains as you enjoy truly sumptuous cuisine.
S’estret
This little restaurant is an authentic Mallorcan experience, with some of the finest tapas we’ve ever tasted and at a very reasonable price. It’s a tiny place with only seating for 14-16, but trust us when we say it is well worth waiting for a seat. Try the cod fritters to experience heaven on a plate.