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Beyond the Beach in Mallorca: Palma
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Hordes of travellers flock to Mallorca every year for its magnificent beaches and mild climate. But far from an overcrowded tourist trap, this is a living working island, with fertile plains bursting with cereal and fruit crops, and lush vineyards.
Whether it's the remote village of Lluc in the Sierra mountains; the site of an ancient shrine, baroque church and chapel designed by iconic architect Gaudi, or the deserted megalithic remains in Capocerb Vell, the island is packed full of hidden treasures, that will reward the most curious of travellers.
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The capital city Palma is further proof of the island's distinct character and unique history, with enough sights to satisfy any culture vulture. The streets are lined with grand mansions and crumbling churches; highlights include a palace owned by the Spanish Royal Family, a Gothic Cathedral, and the Basilica de Sant Francesc.
The museum of Mallorca is filled with displays on local history, art and ancient statues, whilst the 10th century Arab baths are a reminder of the city's Moorish past. For a more modern view of Palma, the abstract artist Joan Miro's studio and gardens have been converted into an avant-garde art centre, containing many of his unfinished paintings.
The old-fashioned cafes nestled at the city centre are a great place to take a break from all this sightseeing, and to try an Ensaimada, a delicious Mallorcan pastry covered in sugar. Overlooking the bay of Palma, the gothic Bellver Castle is well worth a visit; it's hard to believe the decorative cloisters once housed a prison.
With all this on offer, even sunbathers will be tempted to stray from the beach to the city, and luckily it's easy to get around the island. If you want to hire a car, the roads are easy to navigate, and Mallorca is the only island with rail services, which all run through Palma. You can obtain very reasonable car insurance from the Co-Op.
With a year round mild climate, and only a two and a half hours flight, Mallorca is ideal for a beach break with a little bit of culture on the side, and the upscale hotels and luxury holiday homes on offer in resorts such as Andratx, will banish all thoughts of high rise hotel blocks. If you want to splurge on accommodation but save on flights, you can find cheap flights to Palma by searching online or flying from regional airports; Fly Monarch fly to Palma Mallorca from Manchester, Birmingham and London Luton.
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