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WHERE TO STAY OR LIVE IN MALLORCA
Where to stay or live in Mallorca ? This small island is incredibly diverse. From mountains, rural & coastal towns, villages to the vibrant city of Palma !
THE NORTHEAST OF MALLORCA
The northeast of Mallorca is one of the quieter areas on the island with wonderful beaches and mountains. The coast is natural and reaches from sandy beaches to deserted coves with crystal clear waters.
These are some of the most idyllic places in Mallorca, where you can still escape from the stress and the fast pace of modern life and just switch off and relax. It also has an abundance of activities available such as; golf courses, diving, cycling, deep sea fishing, sailing, cycling, running routes and horse riding.
In this region you will find picturesque and historic towns such as; Arta, Capdepera and Son Servera. In these typical Mallorcan towns you can dine in fantastic restaurants and sight-see. In addition to the towns there are popular sea-side resorts such as; Cala Ratjada, Cala Bona, Cala Millor and Sa Coma.
If you'd like to see some of the more exclusive coastlines you could visit the upmarket areas of Costa de los Pinos and Port Verd. If quaint fishing villages are more your style then you have the port of Colonia San Pere just a stones throw away. Heading slightly further North you have a wealth of idyllic coves and towns. The Bay of Alcudia where the skyline meets the Tramuntana mountains is unforgettable.
Somehow, everything is different in this village in the northeast of the island. As if time has stood still. Perched high on the mountain top of this oldy-worldly village you can see the cemetery and windmill towers.
Son Servera extends over different altitudes, offering beautiful sea views as well as having a stunning backdrop of the mountains. Many of its narrow streets lead straight up to the base of the mountain ranges with cobbled slopes; making this small village feel like the cosmopolitan city of San Francisco..
The historic town has a recently paved center, which is home to shops, restaurants, bakeries and two churches one of which is roof-less with beautiful vines and flowers which have grown right to the top. It is famous for its traditional weddings and a real hit with holiday makers.
A recent and fantastic development for the village is the Via Verde route running from Manacor to Artà. The route passes straight through the center of the village running along its old railway track. The accessibility Son Servera offers makes this an ideal starting point for cyclists and hikers!
Every Friday, the popular market takes place and the streets of the village fill up with locals as well as vistors seizing the opportunity to stroll and meander through the stalls and beautiful architecture.
Golfers will not be disappointed. The local course is named aptly after the area itself: Son Servera Golf is Mallorca's second oldest golf course and was originally opened as a 9-hole course in the 1960s, but was expanded to 18 holes in 2012. Other golf courses in Canyamel and Capdepera are easily accessible from here.
The municipality Son Servera also includes the popular sea-side resort of Cala Millor with its long white sandy beach, which lies between the smaller resort of Cala Bona and the nature reserve Sa Punta de n'Amer. Cala Millor has an Auditorium near the beach front called Sa Màniga, and this is the scene of many cultural events, such as ballet, theater and concerts.
Our insider tip for those dreaming of buying a townhouse or a finca is Son Servera is a hidden gem boasting so many options to make your dream home become a reality.
COLONIA DE SANT PERE
BETLEM
Betlem is one of the quietest and untouched towns in Mallorca and is not a typical resort. This charming village is a hidden treasure, a little paradise and a picture of what Majorca would look like without mass tourism, there is just one restaurant. The road to Betlem also offers breathtaking views of the bay of Alcudia.
The wonderful coastline consists of small, quiet caves and secret beaches which are often stony. Betlem is the perfect starting point for hikers. From the foot of the mountains, various walks and paths lead through to the Natural Park "Peninsula de Llevant", a nature reserve with unbelievable views, pristine mountains and coasts.
ARTÀ
The old mountain town of Artà is located in a wonderful, green landscape with the Llevant mountain range in the background. This area is largely untouched and is thus a nature retreat for artists, hikers and cyclists.
The city is a maze of steps and cobbled streets that lead to the chapel Santuari de Sant Salvador on the top of the mountain. It is actually worth ascending here to admire the view to the east and the softly drawn mountain range. Artà has a great selection of restaurants and shops, and every Tuesday a very popular original craft market is held. Worth mentioning here, and definitely worth a visit are the spectacular caves of Arta, located on the coast of Canyamel.
MANACOR
Manacor is considered the second largest town in Mallorca. Once upon a time Manacor was known as the capital for Mallorca. Nowadays it is known for its furniture and pearl industry. Many tourists come here to buy the man-made pearls. The town also has a beautiful
parish church modeled on the famous Cathedral in Palma and a city history museum.
THE SOUTHEAST OF MALLORCA
The southeast of Mallorca offers a mix of coastal and rural life. Well-known places in this region are: Porto Cristo, Cala D'Or y Porto Colom.
PORTO COLOM
The seaside resort of Porto Colom is located on the southeast coast of Mallorca. The main feature of this place is the large natural harbour, home to countless small fishing boats and a growing number of private yachts.
Porto Colom is one of the few places in Mallorca with preserved fishing. On one side along the harbour promenade lie the small fishing boats and on the other side some of Mallorca's best and most picturesque restaurants.
Porto Cristo is a small town on the east coast of Majorca. One time this was a popular fishing resort, now it's more renowned for it's fish restaurants.
This place conveys a truly cosmopolitan feel with a wonderful sandy beach, many good restaurants, bars and shops. In the summer, many tourists come here to visit Mallorca's biggest attraction, the Caves of Drach. These caves are among the largest underground cave systems found and a fantastic experience and affordable excursion with stalactite formations and underground lake.
CALA D'OR
Cala D'Or is a real gem and one of the most famous small towns on the southeast coast of Majorca. The seaside resort is situated on a romantic bay surrounded by white, fresh houses in an Ibizan style. Cala D'Or has a series of beautiful small bays with fine sandy beaches.
In Cala D'Or there is an exclusive harbour with many great fish restaurants, and an exclusive yacht club popular for functions such as weddings and vow renewals. Here you can dine out under the stars, watch the gentle sway of the sea as the sailboats and luxurious yachts enter the harbour and really let all your troubles sail away.
Text and images from Mallorca Real Estate
COLONIA SANT JORDI
The resort of Colonia Sant Jordi on the south coast of Mallorca comes across as young, modern and stylish to its guests. It is located in the municipality of Ses Salines between the villages of Santanyi and Campos and is a lively tourist centre that grew up from a small fishing village.
Thanks to its proximity to beautiful beaches such as Es Trenc, Es Dolç and Es Carbó, the coastal town sits at the top table of Mallorcan resorts nowadays. The picturesque coastal landscape with its flat cliffs, the small islands and beautiful bays have all added to the appeal of Colonia Sant Jordi.
THE NORTH OF MALLORCA
The north of Majorca is known for its beautiful beaches. It consists largely of Pollensa, Alcudia and its surrounding countryside and places such as Son Serra de Marina and many more.
The north is very popular with cyclists with Alcudia normally serving as the starting point of many day trips. Nature lovers will find the striking area of Albufera a perfect combination of peace, nature and wildlife
Santanyi is a small town in the southeast of Mallorca, which has retained its original Balearic charm to this day. The beaches are four kilometres from the town centre. Santanyi appears at first glance to be characterised by medieval and modern buildings made of golden Mares sandstone.
The sandstone is quarried locally and gives the city a distinctive face. Plaça Major is a place of visual contrast where the green palm fronds gently sway in the breeze in front of the sandstone facades and the backdrop of the azure skies.
CALA FIGUERA
The fig trees radiate a lush green, the turquoise blue waters shimmer and an azure blue sky arches over the horizon as the picturesque backdrop at the fjord-like bay of Cala Figuera.
This striking Y-shaped bay is located on the southeast coast of Mallorca. The two inlets: Caló d'En Boira and Caló d'En Busques are bounded by low cliffs. The bay was named after the fig trees that characterise the landscape.
CALA ANGUILA
About 10 minutes in the car from the port town of Porto Cristo on the east coast of Mallorca, you will find the enchanting bay of Cala Anguila. The bay is bordered on both sides by low cliffs, which are overgrown with Mediterranean plants and pines. The fine white sand in Cala Anguila shines brightly in the sunshine.
The beach is only 50 m wide but extends about 120 m inland. Due to its location between two rocky headlands, the beach and bay form a closed area, which is ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
CALA SA NAU
Cala Sa Nau is a magical bay on the southeast coast of Mallorca. It lies at the end of a 350 m long sea inlet, reminiscent of a mini fjord. The bay is ideal for bathing and is framed by low rocks covered in pine and Mediterranean scrub.
The crystal-clear waters at Cala Sa Nau attract not only paddler but also snorkelers are very fond of the bay - especially the cliffs on the left and right of the bay. Due to the protected location, waves are virtually non-existent and you only need to wade out to a depth of one metre to see some wonderful underwater sights.
CALA ROMANTICA
The rugged east coast of Mallorca welcomes its visitors with numerous fantastically located coves. Cala Romantica, also known as S'Estany d'en Mas, is undoubtedly one of the most scenic places on this stretch of coast.
The bay is enclosed on both sides by white cliffs where pine trees and Mediterranean scrub grow. The fine-grained, light-sand beach is a bathing paradise and has a gradual and shallow descent into the sea. Due to the protected location between two rocky headlands, there is only a small swell at Cala Romantica.
CALA MARMOLS
Cala Marmols or Caló des Màrmols - the "marble bay" - is an idyllic, small sandy bay on the southeast coast of Mallorca - between Cala Santanyi and Cap de ses Salinas. Cala Marmols is located about 15 minutes from Caló des Moro and about 40 minutes from Porto Colom, making it the last bay on the eastern coast of the island.
In the summer months, the bay is approached by sailing or motor boats, which often choose to anchor there. The beach at Cala Marmols is about 45 metres wide and about 30 metres deep.
CALA LLOMBARDS
The southeast of Mallorca has a rare gem in Cala Llombards, a magical bay on the rugged coast. Steep cliffs enclose the fjord-like bay, which extends about 230 m inland. The beach at the end of the bay is only 55 m long and up to 150 m wide. The beach is an interesting cone-like shape.
The dazzling white sand is soft and each step you take, your feet sink slightly into the sand. There is hardly any swell in sheltered Cala Llombards, which creates perfect conditions for swimming and snorkelling.
CALA VARQUES
South of Porto Cristo between S'Estany d'en Mas and Cales de Mallorca lies the small bay of Cala Varques. Due to its remote location on a stretch of coast that is hard to access, the charming rocky bay with its fine sandy beach is something of an insider secret.
Apart from during the peak season, tourists rarely visit the picturesque bay and its turquoise waters. Cala Varques has two rocky headlands on either side where pine trees and other Mediterranean vegetation grow.
Text and images from mallorca.com
ALCUDIA
The vibrant town of Alcúdia to the north can be visited all year-round as it offers life, history and culture. Just one kilometer inland from the famous resort of Port d'Alcúdia, the town is ideal to sample some Mallorcan cultural heritage, without having to go too far from the 'holiday' path.
Once a sleepy little town, Alcúdia has developed positively over the years and cleverly draws the attention of visitors to its attractions and cultural gems. Below is all the information you need to make the most of your visit to this fascinating, walled city.
POLLENSA
The historic village of Pollensa, stands out with its wonderful restaurants and village houses. The backstreets of Pollena offer some of the best tapas the island can offer.
Puerto Pollensa is located just a stones throw away with a breathtaking view over the crystal clear blue Mediterranean Sea, most of the year round the sea is so calm it appears more like a tranquil lake. It has a beautiful marina and beach promenade as well as a famous pine walk which is must to really discover the beauty of the area. These are just a few features that make this place a prime destination for families.
SON SERRA DE MARINA
Son Serra de Marina is an urbanization with a small yacht and marina in the northeast of Majorca. The natural beach is surrounded by a protected dune area in the hinterland and is lined with pine trees and holm oaks. The beach itself is partly rocky, with sandy areas situated throughout.
There are no hotels along the beach, and you will not find the usual parasol and deck chair rental here either. With no life guards you can truly be at one with nature in this untouched and natural beach. Only once you head further into the village you will find a few bars and restaurants.
Those who prefer a more secluded beach will like Son Serra de Marina. For extended beach walks, the section at Son Serra de Marina is ideal.
THE ISLAND CENTER
The center of the island is mostly flat landscape with almond fields, carob trees, and cattle grazing. The ideal region for those looking for traditional, rural life in Majorca not far from Palma. Mostly untouched by the tourist trade this is where you can discover the real Mallorca. The central city of Sineu is probably the best starting point for an exploration of this region.
SANTA MARIA
Santa Maria del Cami is a bustling market town in the center of Majorca and capital of the, also heads up a municipality which includes several surrounding villages.
Situated on a flat central plain with stunning views of the Tramuntana mountain range, it would be very easy to drive right on through, without realising what a special destination this really is. Another of our hidden gem tips is the wine from this region is not to be missed and we invite all to sit, take in the beauty with a glass of the local wine and revel in the surrounding area.
BUNYOLA
The small, traditional village of Bunyola is located on the southern slope of the Tramuntana mountain range. An untouched place rich in cultural and natural heritage. This area has always been a very privileged area of the island and therefore also has some of the most wonderful mallorcan houses.
Every Saturday there is market in the market square of the village with local products such as fruits and vegetables. The train "Ferrocarril de Sóller" goes through Bunyola and makes a few scheduled stops.
ALARÓ
Alaró is a picturesque traditional village in the middle of the most beautiful landscape at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains surrounded by farmland and olive trees. Most of the houses which are protected come with fantastic mountain views. The castle in Alaró is a classic destination for hiking in Mallorca.
A top tip from us is the restaurant Es Verger, which you will encounter on your walk up to the castle, here you will find the best mallorquin roasted leg of lamb. Alaró is also a part of the well-known cycle path which leads through the Tramuntana. Every Saturday morning is market day selling fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers. This Mallorcan village with its characteristic stone houses offers many good restaurants and a great atmosphere.
Text and images from Mallorca Real Estate
MONTUIRI
Image from Expedia
Discover some the best sights and local produce of central Mallorca with our guide to the charming rural hill-top village of mediaeval Montuiri
Text from ABC Mallorca
THE SOUTH OF MALLORCA
The south of Majorca is known for its famous long beach Es Trenc, with its wild and un-touched beach offering 2km of golden sand and crystal waters similar to that found in the Caribbean . Other well-known places in the south are: Santanyi, Colonia de Sant Jordi, Bahia Grande, Cala Blava and Cala Pi.
LLUCMAJOR
Llucmajor, in southern Mallorca, is a diverse and historic municipality known for its charming town center, picturesque countryside, and beautiful coastline. The town itself offers traditional Mallorcan architecture, lively markets, and landmarks like the Church of Sant Miquel. Coastal highlights include the idyllic Cala Pi with its turquoise waters and the peaceful fishing village of S’Estanyol. Llucmajor is also celebrated for its surrounding countryside, perfect for cycling and exploring, and its proximity to Es Trenc, one of Mallorca’s most stunning beaches, adds to its appeal.
SANTANYI
Santanyi with its golden stone village is blessed with its stunning natural surroundings. The small secluded bay of Cala Santanyi is located on the southeast coast of Majorca. Unlike most places on the southeast, tourism did not reach this place until the late 1960s.
Today you will find a wide selection of stylish shops and modern and charming cafes and restaurants along the narrow streets. Every Wednesday and Saturday morning there is a market in the heart of the town. In addition to fruit and vegetables you will find here cheese, olives, meat, wine, clothing, shoes, accessories all fresh produce from Mallorca. Cala Santanyi is a sandy beach, in a cove shape which is protected from both sides and shines with crystal clear water.
COLONIA DE SANT JORDI
The upbeat small coastal resort of Colonia Sant Jordi in the southeast of Mallorca was originally a fishing village and now has much more to offer. It is located almost at the southernmost tip of the island in the municipality of Ses Salines and attracts active, enthusiastic sports visitors.
Oozing in history and culture it's easy to get lost in the natural wonders this place offers, including the only place with natural hot springs on the island.
THE WEST
The West of the island offers spectacular mountain views, a mild summer climate and very stylish townhouses and fincas. Some well-known towns are Sóller, Deia and Valldemossa.
SOLLER
The charming village of Soller is located in the middle of the Tramuntana mountains. It is only 3km away from the Puerto de Soller and is located in a large and very fertile valley. The valley is well known for its orange groves and ancient olive terraces. Soller and the harbour are only half an hour away from Palma and offers good connections by train, tram and bus.
The valley and the surrounding Tramuntana mountains are a popular destination for people from all over the world. The perfect place for those who like to hike, love nature and agritourism, swim and just seek peace and relaxation, all with a picturesque backdrop surrounded by the aroma of orange blossom.
Valldemossa is one of the most beautiful villages in Mallorca on the slopes of the Tramuntana mountain range, framed by lush nature, the high mountains and deep valleys. This consists largely of olive and almond trees and has changed little over the years.
Many start their route here for climbing, hiking, and cycling. The streets of Valldemossa are narrow and winding and there are numerous cozy cafes, galleries and shops.
DEIA
Deia is an idyllic mountain village and since the beginning of the 20th Century a retreat for many writers, artists and musicians. This small community is framed by lush green terraces and the high mountains of the Tramuntana. Many people come here to experience the breathtaking view with good food and drink in cafes and restaurants.
The village is also the home of many artists who each contribute their share to the large selection of small shops and boutiques You can also visit Cala Deia bay by going along a winding road. Here you will find a small beach and two restaurants, which are only open in summer.
MALLORCA'S SOUTHWEST
Mallorca's southwest is the most developed region of the island. Some well-known places are: Andratx and Santa Ponsa and many others.
ANDRATX
Andratx is an old Mallorcan town located in the valley of the Tramuntana mountains. Its old-fashioned, narrow streets and rustic heritage make it an authentic place that is well worth a visit.
Andratx has already inspired many artists and writers and has attracted a variety of celebrities. Without a doubt the major feature of the town is the brand new marina which is attracting alot of attention due to it's beauty.
In the surrounding area you will find extensive farmland that produces fresh local produce as well as beautiful and a combination of luxury homes and villas. Andratx is therefore an ideal starting point to explore one of the most beautiful southern areas of Majorca.
Text and images from Mallorca Real Estate
PORT ANDRATX
During the mid 80’s Port Andratx was the place to go, thanks to a certain Ms. Claudia Schiffer who was at the height of her supermodel stardom and could often be spotted at Tim’s Bar or eating dinner at Miramar (a favourite of King Juan Carlos).
The steep hillsides that have always protected the port were yet to be developed but people were already buying property in the area, realising the potential of the surroundings.
PUERTO PORTALS
Perhaps the best micro-example of Mallorca’s moneyed side is the harbour of Puerto Portals, which has a flavour all of its own. One of Europe’s favourite upmarket marinas, its many chic restaurants, cafes and boutiques make it perfect for strolling, to the backdrop of a succession of superyachts.
MAGALUF
No description of Mallorca's southwest can be complete without a mention of Magaluf. No matter what your impression or opinion of the island's most notorious town is, it can't be ignored that thousands flock here year after year in search of a good time.
Steps are being taken to rebrand this party area into something more sophisticated; and with the addition of a few upmarket hotels and the cool Oceans Beach Club, perceptions are starting to change.
PALMA NOVA
Right next door, Palma Nova is something akin to Magaluf's grown-up older sister; a cheap and cheerful resort catering to all tastes, with a broad expanse of long, sandy, Blue-Flag beach.
Text and images from ABC Mallorca
Santa Ponsa has two large sandy beaches and all property types are available here, and caters perfectly for a summer holiday.
The town has an interesting international community. Large parts of the architecture are specially designed for tourism. The town caters perfectly for families on holiday, as well as offering a few amenities for exclusive clientele. Here you will find some of the island's most luxurious properties.
Text and images from Mallorca Real Estate
GALILEA
What makes the south west so interesting is that these lively, modern resort towns exist so close to tiny, unspoilt places such as Galilea; a precious mountain hamlet inland from Andratx that has held tight to its traditions.
CALVIÀ
Calvià is the administrative centre of the south west and, as a result of the tourism of the past 50 years, is rumoured to be the richest municipality in all of Spain. A popular place in which to settle for foreigners, this attractive small town sits in the hills 6km from the coast - far enough away to retain its authenticity.
Text and images from ABC Mallorca
PALMA
Palma is the capital of Mallorca. The cultural offer is rich, there are numerous galleries and museums, such as the Es Baluard or the Palau March, which offers various exhibitions and classical concerts all year round.
It proudly traces its history back to the Roman Empire and the surrounding architecture will not disappoint. From the stunning marina which oozes prosperity to the dramatic cathedral, to the Bellver castle located high on the surrounding mountain top. It is a city that has a bit of everything for everyone.
Palma is ideal for people who do not want to rely on a car. Everything is within walking distance. The airport is just a 5-minute taxi ride away and the nearest beach is 15 minutes away on foot. A property in Palma is ideal for someone who likes to visit Mallorca on weekends away, or to like all year round and wants to be near the action.
Palma has changed dramatically over the years, thanks to sophisticated urban planning and extensive restoration work in the old town. The so-called 'Pearl of the Mediterranean' presents itself today more beautiful than ever and the Mediterranean flair, which annually attracts thousands of tourists, is noticeable in every corner.
Text and images from Mallorca Real Estate
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