|
Adventure and Theme Parks.
Aqualand Water Park.-
Magalluf
Images.
Aquapark and the water
adventure offers more than 10 million liters of water for the whole family. Here
you can enjoy attractions like the Kamikaze, Soft Slides and Adventure River
among others. For relaxing you can make use of the lake, the big swimming pool
and the green park. For the little ones there is a childrens park with slides.
The park also boasts bars, burger shop,
pizzeria, cafeteria, photo shop, free parking, taxi and bus service, telephone,
sun bathing area, doctor, showers and go-kart racing track.
Western Water
Park - Magalluf
"Mallorca's favourite water park - a great place for eveyone to have fun
in the sun."
Aqualand
Water Park - Arenal, Playa de Palma.
Images.
"The biggest water park in Europe. AQUALAND EL ARENAL is located near the El
Arenal beach in the south of the island of Mallorca. It offers visitors the
opportunity to spend an unforgettable day with their families and friends
enjoying state of the art attractions such as the Banzai, the Grand Canyon and
the Devil’s Tail. Also, three great areas for children: the Mini Park, the
Dragoland and Polynesia. Relax at the end of the day on our fantastic green
lawns and in the Jacuzzi.
Marineland
Mallorca - Puerto Portals.
The park is located at Calviá’s Costa d’en Blanes beach. This wonderful
marine zoo is backed by 35 years of history in entertainment, education,
research and interconnection with nature. The internationally awarded Dolphin
Shows are the park’s top attraction, along with the Sea Lion and Parrot Shows.
La Granja de
Esporlas.
LA GRANJA, situated 15 Km from Palma, is a beautiful 10th century mansion,
surrounded by lush vegetation, beautiful gardens and natural fountains. A
private farm with an agricultural museum in the historic mansion, exhibitions of
traditional artisanat activities, food making with samples. Displays of
traditional Mallorcan dancing on selected days. Restaurant facilities.
Es Calderas
http://www.idealspain.com/pages/Places/mallorca/calderas.htm
Els Calderas
is located close to
Manacor
off the Algaida to Vilafranca road and is one of the most impressive manor
houses on Mallorca. It has now been converted to a very interesting museum and
is well worth a visit.
Botanicactus
The largest botanical garden in Europe, covering an area of 150,000 m2, it also
has the largest navigable lake in the Balearic Islands. A collection of over
than 1,000 types of plants ranging from the common Majorcan cactus, to a 300
year old specimen of the “Carnegie Giant” cactus from Arizona. The Botanicactus
is open every day of the year from around 9:00am to dusk and entrance to the
park is quite reasonable at around Ł4.00 each for adults. Located in Ses Salines,
SE Mallorca.
Ses Salines
La Reserva - Puig de Galatzo.
LA RESERVA PUIG DE GALATZO is a nature reserve with an area of 2.5 million m˛
situated in the south-west of Majorca, in Puigpuńyent, some 17 km from Palma.
The park was founded in 1986 and declared by the Island Council of Majorca as a
public utility and of social interest on 3rd August 1992. Its official
inauguration took place on 24th October 1992. At present, a marked path leads
through this unique landscape of Majorca. LA RESERVA is situated at the foot of
the mountain “Galatzó”, one of the most famous mountains of the island with an
altitude of 1,026 metres above sea level. Its valley is one of the most
beautiful on the island and was one of the first districts to be inhabited by
human beings. The Galatzó and its valley belong to one of the most enigmatic
zones of the island. This is principally due to the legend of the Earl of Mal, a
cruel nobleman, who owned this land in the 17th century and who's ghost still
lives here. There are also other anecdotes to tell, such as that of the
surviving Muslims in times of the Christian reconquest who took refuge here and
that this mountain is considered to be the most magnetic one in Europe. LA
RESERVA is an abundantly vegetated area with a great variety of plants. This is
due to its variation in height from 200 metres above sea level up to 1026 metres
of the Puig de Galatzó. The indigenous plants of major interest are described in
a catalogue that can be obtained at the entrance of the park. Apart from plants,
LA RESERVA accommodates three brown bears, ostriches, emus, deers, wild donkeys,
goats, peacocks, geese and a great variety of ducks in a landscape of caves and
waterfalls. The entire circuit through the park is about 3.5 km long. After a
walk of approximately one hour, passing by several waterfalls, there is a large
barbecue area and a kiosk-bar, where snacks and cold drinks are offered. Lunch
can be served here at the table or barbecues be prepared by oneself. This is
also the place where the famous bird of prey exhibitions take place twice a day.
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Palma
Attractions.
Many of the principal attractions of Mallorca are
to be found in the Capital City of Palma. A good way of obtaining an orientation
of the City is to hop on the Red Double Decker Palma City Sightseeing Tour Bus (
bus line number 50). A ticket is valid for 24 hours and allow you to hop on and
off the bus during that period at any of the 13 stops which include Almudaina
Palace and Cathedral, Las Ramblas, Plaza de Espana, Pueblo Espanol, Bellver
Castle, Porto Pi Commercial centre, Ferry Terminals. Tickets and guides can be
obtained from the buses at any of the above stops. A variety of guides and
leaflets are available from the tourist offices located at the airport, in Plaza
Raina and in Plaza Espana.
Palma Cathedral.- this
immense Gothic structure with its dramatic arching
spans also known as La Seu
was built on the site of a pre-existing Arab mosque. Construction was
commenced in 1230 and not completed until 1601. Impressive from afar and from
within.
Image-1,
Image-2,
More detailed
info.
Almudaina Palace - adjacent to Palma Cathedral - formerly the Muslim
palace of the Banu Ganiya, at the edge of the port. The building was converted
into a palace at the beginning of the 14th century on the orders of kings Jaume
II. Now houses a museum and is used by the King of
Spain, Rey Juan Carlos I for formal receptions during his summer holidays in
Mallorca. In front of the Almudaina Palace are located a popular area of gardens
and fountains.
Image1 ,
Image2.
Bellver Castle - at 137 mtrs above sea level the 700 year old Castle occupies a
commanding position overlooking the City of Palma. Originally the summer
residence for the Majorcan Monarchy, it later became a prison. It is well
worth a visit for the magnificent views and to examine the Provincial Museum of
Archeology, painting and numismatics. Used during the summer as a superb site
for a series of concerts.
Image1,
Image2,
More Detailed Info.
Pueblo Espanol - features scaled down
reconstructions of some 100 of the most renowned buildings and monuments of
Spain.- built between between 1965 and 1967 - a popular attraction and
venue for various events and banquets.
More
Information.
Arab Baths - tenth century baths that are the only
existing ruins of the Arab city of Medina Mayurqa.
Images and More detailed Information.
Guide to Palma by
MajorcanVillas.com
A useful guide with map to the major features of Palma + Art Galleries and
Museums.
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Excursions
Excursions - North East of Mallorca. (
Map ).
Pollensa Old Town. Boasts Calvari Church (
Image ) at the head of the 365 steps of Calvari (
Image )and an attractive square at the base of the Calvari steps. Also a
Roman Bridge (
Image ).
Pollensa Port / Puerto Pollensa (
Aerial Image ). Boasts a long sandy beach (
Image ), a marina and fishing harbour (image
) which offer boat trips to the view the Formentor Headland and pleasant
walks along Pine Walk (
Image1,
Image2 ). The town square behind Pine Walk is the location for the Wednesday
morning market.
Formentor Headland (
Aerial Image ). A magnificent headland which offers breathtaking views (
Image ) en
route to the lighthouse and refreshment stop at the most Northerly point of
Mallorca. The 5* Hotel Formentor (
Aerial
Image ) - a favourite with Churchill - offers afternoon teas in pleasant
garden surroundings.
Cala San Vicente. Located North East of Pollensa Old Town comprises two small
sandy bays backed by impressive hills.
Campanet Caves / Coves de Campanet (
image ). Provides regular escorted tours around an impressive collection of
chambers. A short ride from Pollensa - off the Inca - Alcudia road.
Alcudia Old Town. A walled town dating from around 1300. The Phoenicians, Greeks
and Romans have all settled in Alcudia. Boasts a market on Tuesday and Sunday
mornings. The nearby Roman remains are signposted from the road to the Port
Alcudia. Eastwards from Alcudia Old Town is a small promontory which offers a
pleasant drive past Bon Aire marina (
Image1,
Image2 )to the Victoria Hermitage and restaurant -
an ideal place for good value lunch break.
Port Alcudia. A major resort with long sandy beaches and a recently developed
marina area which offers a wealth of open air bars and restaurants.
Aucanada peninsular - Eastwards from Port Alcudia - a pleasant ride with scenic
bars and restaurants terminating at the scenic Aucanada Golf Club.
The drive from Alcudia resort passes the Parc Natural de Albufera en route to
the resort of Can Picafort. The Parc Natural de Albufera is a wetlands area one
of the most important ecosystems in the Balearic Islands - a protection area for
birds and with eels, canals, bridges and vegetation. Access is by foot or by
bicycle and is via the visitors Centre from which a free permit must be obtained.
More information.
Arta and Capdepara. This North Easterly area of Mallorca is much less known to
visitors to Mallorca than the more Northerly area of Pollensa and Alcudia. Arta
boasts the hilltop San Salvador Santuary (
Image1,
Image2 ).
Capdepera Castle / Castell del Capdepera near Arta. The largest fortress in
Mallorca - built by the Romans and then enlarged by the Moors and then destroyed
and replaced by the Christians (
More Info
).
Caves of Arta / Coves d'Arta. Substantial caves located on the coast near Arta.
( More Info ).
Cala Rajada / Cala Ratjada has a fishing port from which sea excursions can be taken. There
are pleasant walks along the promenades, along the breakwater and Northwards
along the coast. This part of Mallorca although well served with hotels is
much less developed and well known than the South West.
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Excursions - East Coast Mallorca (Map).
Canyamel. A small coastal resort with rolling countryside hinterland. (
Some
images ). 18 hole Golf Course nearby (
Info ).
Cala Bona. A medium sized resort with a small picturesque fishing port from
which boat trips can be taken along the coast.
Cala Millor. Contiguous to Cala Bona with a long strip of quality hotels
restaurants and bars. Sandy beach. The location of an annual hot balloon
regatta. (Image)
Porto Christo. An older small resort with a small port and marina from which
boat trips can be taken. Well worth a visit for walks around the port and along
the coast. Nearby - a couple of kms South of Porto Cristo are the famous
Caves of Drac / Coves del Drac -
extensive caves with impressive stalactites and stalagmites and an underground
lake over which glide performing musicians.
The Caves of Ham / Coves del Hams also also impressive and are located off the
Porto Cristo to Manacor road (
More Info and images).
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Excursions - South East Mallorca (Map).
Calas de Mallorca. A modern purpose built mini resort with pleasant walks
along the cliffs and calas to the North and across a substantial sandy beach to
the South. Well served with bars, restaurants and entertainment facilities.
Cala Murada. An older small resort with attractive beach which is becoming more
developed.
Porto Colom. A very attractive and peaceful old style development around a large
almost closed sheltered bay. Good walks around the bay and along the cliffs near
the lighthouse. Plenty of traditional bars and restaurants in the small town (
Image1,
Image2 ).
Some 5 kms South is the attractive Cala Sa Nou with a small beach at the head of
a deep inlet and with a rocky coastline to the North and South (
Image1,
Image2,
Image3 ).
Cala D'Or is a long established and modern resort developed around a number of
Calas / deeply indented bays. Beaches tend to be small at the head of the
various calas. Boat trips are popular as is the hire of pedalos and swimming.
The central pedestrianised area of restaurants and bars with outside tables is
very popular during summer evenings.(
Image1,
Image2). Adjacent to the South of Cala D'Or is Porto Petit (Image)
-a well developed marina along an extended inlet / cala - with traditional
mallorquin wooden llauts and a multitude of large motor yachts. Also a multitude
of good eating and drinking establishments at various price levels on both sides
of the marina. If you tire of walking there is a regular "tourist train" service
running from the Porto Petit North to Cala D'Or. (See
Cala D'Or Page).
Porto Petra is a few kms South of Cala D'Or - an attractive small harbour with
traditional small boats. A popular small semi enclosed bay for learning to sail.
A peaceful backwater in which to enjoy a stroll, and an ice cream or drink.
Santanyi - a small town which is the municipal centre of South East Mallorca -
location of a twice weekly market ( Wednesday and Saturday mornings) and a
variety of craft shops, galleries, bars and restaurants. Nearby are a selection
of excellent and relevatively undiscovered beaches.
Cala Figuera. A picturesque narrow inlet lined by small fishing boats and white
painted houses (Image).
Pleasant walks, boat excursions and bars / restaurants with a view over the Cala
and fishing port (Image).
Cala Santanyi - a small resort with a wide beach overlooked by small hotels,
bars and restaurants (Image).
Nearby is the popular wide beach of Cala Llombards (Image)
and the beaches of Cala des Moro (Image1,
Image2) and adjacent very attractive bay of Cala S' Almunia (
Image1,
Image2 ). Access to the beach Cala des Moro involves quite a difficult
scramble and access to Cala Sa Munar the negotiation of a long set of steps.
Both beaches are popular with locals at the weekends and during summer evenings.
A good map is recommended. Directions - some 1.5 kms on the Cala Llombards
towards Santanyi road the turn South along a narrow road with signpost missing
????? and follow this zig zag road for some 2 kms until it terminates. Walk
across the rocks to the left towards Cala des Moro or down the steps to Cala
S'Almunia. Spellings vary.
Cap de
Ses Salines. A drive through wooded terrain to the lighthouse and rocky coast.
Ses Salines. A small town with Botanicactus botanical garden nearby - "the
largest botanical garden in Europe, covering an area of 150,000 m2, it also has
the largest navigable lake in the Balearic Islands" (
More Info).
Colonia de Sant Jordi. A medium sized older resort with attractive port and
walks along the attractive beaches to the North.(Image1,
Image2). Early morning excursions available to Cabrera Island some 20 kms
off the coast - a nature reserve with a 14th Century Castle. ( Tel: 971 649 034
for more information ).
Es Trenc beach - the most famous and popular beach in Mallorca - extends for
several kms from Es Trenc towards Sa Rapita (Image1,
Image2,
Image3 ). Acess is via a narrow signposted road Westwards from the Colonia
Sant Jordi road - via saltflats where sea salt is harvested. Paid parking in a
large car park some 300 metres from the beach. The Colonia Sant Jordi end of the
beach is popular with nude bathers.
Sa Rapita - access to the long Sa Rapita - Es Trenc beach. Parking areas and a
modern marina with a bar and restaurant. Sa Rapita is a small older style strip
of villas, bars and restaurants.
Capocorb Vell.- The most significant remains in Mallorca of the Taliotic culture
which flourished in Mallorca 1300 and 800 BC. Located near Cala Pi some 12
kms South of Llucmayor. Image (By
MajorcanVillas.)
Cala Pi. Small picturesque resort.
Cala Blava - a developing area to the SE of Palma with Hotels, Bars and
restaurants and expanding commuter belt. A rocky coast with sea bathing from a
number of rock pools and mini bays.
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Excursions - South West Mallorca (Map).
The South West of Mallorca from Palma westwards is the most heavily developed
area of the Island but there still exists a wide variety of spectacular coastal
walks and small bays - some of which can become quite busy on summer weekends.
Cala Major. A small bay with Sandy beach. Formerly a popular resort but now
primarily a residential suburb of Palma.(Image).
Illetas. An area of quality hotels and luxury villas. Sandy beaches which are
very popular at the weekend. Nearby are the luxury property estates and golf
course of Bendinat. (Image).
Portals Nous and Puerto Portals Marina. A magnet for both the rich and famous
and not so famous .The area adjacent to Puerto Portals (image) is heavily
sprinkled with Celebrity Pads. Many relaxing TV stars and famous personalities
can be seen in the bars and restaurants in the Port - Wellies (image), Michelin 2*
Restaurant Tristans (image), Bistro Key West
(image),
Ritzi Italian restaurant and many more. Regular visitors include
East Enders star Steve McFadden ( who plays Phil Mitchell ) who owns a boat based in the port. Anthea Turner,
former Blue Peter and TV Programme presenter ( Travel programmes and
National Lottery) and husband Grant Bovey own a luxurious Sunseeker Predator
which is also based in the port. - as is Peter Stringfellow' Sunseeker
"Stringfellow's". (image)
Small sandy beaches at either side of the marina (
More images ).
Palma Nova. A major resort with sandy beaches, a multitude of Hotels and
Apartment Blocks and a wealth of bars and restaurants. (Image1,
Image2,
Image3). More Info from
Magalluf and Palma Nova Scene.
Magalluf. Contiguous with Palma Nova. A fine sandy beach and famous for its
lively bars, restaurants and discos. Nearby Water Parks, Go Karting and
the famous Pirates Adventure Dinner Show. (
Image1,
Image2,
Image3,
Image4 ) More Info from
Magalluf and Palma Nova Scene.
Portals Vells. Between Magalluf and Santa Ponsa is a large area of wooded and
cliff top walks and a number of secluded coves which are popular with both
bathers ( some nude beaches areas) and yachtsmen. Includes Cala Vinyes / Cala
Vinas (Image),
Portals Vells with beaches and restaurant - Es Repos - specialities Paella and
seafood. (image1,
image2).
Port Adriano / El Toro. Port Adriano marina has been developed at the foot of
the cliffs below the small residential town of El Toro. Houses / Berths somewhat
fewer and smaller yachts than neighbouring marina Puerto portals. A good
selection of bars and restaurants with gentle strolls around the marina.
Adjacent sandy beach. (Image1,
Image2,
Image3).
Santa Ponsa. A popular family holiday resort with a fine, safe sandy beach,
water sports, bars, restaurants and some discos. Hosts a colourful fiesta in
September which commemorates the 1229 landing by Jaime I to repel the Moorish
occupation. (
Image1,
Image2,
Image3 ). More information from
Santa Ponsa Scene.
Peguera / Paguera. A well established resort with three sandy beaches, semi
pedestrianised main street with a wide selection of bars, restaurants and shops.
Beach side promenades and restaurants. (Image1,
Image2,
Image3).
Camp de Mar. A small bay with sandy beach. Extensively developed in recent years
with Golf Course, quality hotels and luxury villas on the hillside adjacent to
the bay and surrounding the Golf Course. A long standing restaurant located on
an small Island reached by a wooden bridge is popular for paella - particularly
on Sundays when Spanish families enjoy leisurely lunches. (
Image1,
image2,
image3 )
Cala Llamp. A small Cala off the coastal road from Camp de Mar to Andratx.
Swimming from an area of rocks and rock pools. Cala surrounded by high steep
cliffs to which an increasing number of luxury villas are "glued". A popular
beach club and restaurant provides a swimming pool and sunbathing facilities. (Image1,
image2).
Puerto Andratx. A popular residential area and location for holiday homes
located on the hillsides overlooking the Port and marina. Well supplied with
quality restaurants, bars, boutiques and estate agents. A traditional fishing
port and a base for a multitude of small boats and somewhat more luxurious
craft. A good location to enjoy a drink and / patisserie and stroll around the
harbour. (Image1,
image2,
image3,
image4).
Sant Elm / San Telmo. An older resort reached by a pleasant but windy drive NW
from Puerto Andraxt. A small bay with snady beach and a very popular mooring for
boats. Many small restaurants and hostals provide paellas seafood and
traditional spanish food. Main street pedestrianised. Small ferry operates to
nearby nature reserve island of Dragonara. Popular but steep walk to remains of
nearby La Trapa monastery. (
Image1,
image2,
image3).
Island of
Dragonara. Operated as a nature reseve. Acess is via small ferry from San Telmo
and is also a stopping point on many tourist boat excursions in SW Mallorca.
Good swimming in the small harbour, walking for the fit up to the two
lighthouses located at either end of the island and some 300 mtrs above sea
level. (Image).
Excursions - West Coast
Mallorca
(Map).
The West Coast of Mallorca presents some stunning scenery (
Image1,
Image2,
image3 ) from the coastal road from Andratx in the South West to Soller in the
North. The road has been greatly improved over the years but with a multitude of
bends as the road skirts the Tramuntana mountain range care is required.
A mirador / viewing point presents an early early excuse for a short break
- with a historic monument
and bar / restaurant. Set several hundred feet above sea level good coastal
views are obtained and stunning sunsets over the sea. About one km North of the
mirador is a starting point for an energetic walk to the 1,026 meter high Puig de
Galatzo.
The coastal road passes Estrellencs and Banulbufar (
image ) offering views of
agricultural terraces cascading down to sea level. A short diversion off the
coastal road in the direction of Esporlas and Palma is
La Granja de
Esporlas.
LA GRANJA is a beautiful 10th century mansion,
surrounded by lush vegetation, beautiful gardens and natural fountains. A
private farm with an agricultural museum in the historic mansion, exhibitions of
traditional artisanat activities, food making with samples. Displays of
traditional Mallorcan dancing on selected days. Restaurant facilities. (
Image1,
image2,
image3,
image4 ).
Onwards to Valldemossa which is set several kilometres inland. Valldemossa is a
very picturesque town dominated by the Carthusian Monastery. Frederico Chopin very famously spent the winter
of 1838/39 in Mallorca
at the Carthusian Monastery at Valldemossa with his lover the writer George Sands.
During their stay at Valldemossa Chopin wrote his "Raindrop Prelude / 24
Preludes op 28" whilst his lady friend George Sands wrote the bestselling book
"A Winter in Mallorca". (
image1,
image2,
image3). The Monastery is now a museum with a Chopin section and holds
regular piano recitals. Valledomossa is also the location of the Costa Nord
tourist centre and restaurant, created by Michael Douglas and showing tourist
videos produced and narrated by Michael.
Movie star Michael Douglas and ex wife of 18
years Diandra time-share
ownership of a historic property on the West Coast near the Port of Valldemossa - the large
property called s'Estaca was formerly owned by Archduke Ludwig Salvator of
Austria and has in recent years been extensively renovated by Michael and
Diandra. Diandra Douglas, a mother, film producer, businesswoman and designer,
was brought up in Mallorca. Michael Douglas and current wife Catherline Zeta
Jones regularly visit Mallorca.
House guests have included film director and film star Woody Allen and movie
stars Jack Nicholson and Dani de Vito.
Returning towards the coast from Valledomossa take the fork Northwards towards
Deya. A few miles before Deya is the church of Son Morroig and adjacent mirador with high level views over
Sa Foradada (
Image ) a popular summer anchorage for yachtsmen and an energetic
walk for the energetic.
A few kilometers onwards Deya ( formerly Deia ) (
image1,
image2,
image3 ) has
long been a popular haunt for artists. The town of Deya is sourounded by lofty
mountains. Port Deya reached by a steeply descending road is picturesque with a
couple of rustic fish restaurants perched above the bay and shingle beach. Also
popular with visiting yachtsmen.Until recently Sir Richard Branson was
the owner of the 5* La Residencia Hotel in Deya with recent visitors including
Sir Richard himself who still owns a nearby property. Diana, Princess of Wales,
Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York have all been visitors to La Residencia (image1,
image2,
image3,
image4). British poet Robert Graves spent most of his working life here
in the 20th century and is buried in the village of Deiá - and where a museum to
his memory has recently been opened..
The coastal road continues to wind northwards through the mountains until views
are obtained over the town of Soller and Puerto Soller (
Image1,
image2,
image3,
image4,
image5,
image6 ). The town of Soller
contains a magnificent church , a town square and a myriad of bars and
restaurants. The town is the terminus of famous historic train from Palma (
image )and of
the connecting tram service onwards to Puerto Soller. Puerto Soller is a popular
resort with a variety of modest and more luxurious accommodation and receives
many day visitors attracted by the superb location surrounded by mountains, by
the colourful fishing port (
Image1,
image2 ). Puerto Soller offers tourist boat excursions along
the mountainous coast and in particular to La Calobra (
image ) several kms to the East.
Puerto Soller is served by many fine restaurants and bars. During May Puerto
Soller is the location for a spectacular re-enactment battle of Christians versus
Moors (
image1,
image2 ).
The Soller tunnel opened some years ago provides a relatively fast return route
back to Palma.
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Excursions - North Coast Mallorca (Map).
This section describes North Coast excursions between Soller and Pollensa.
A few kilometres North East of Soller lies the small town of Fornalutx
surrounded by orange groves and mountains with a picturesque small square and
winding stepped streets climbing through the town (
Image1,
image2 ). Fornalutx can be reached via
the main coastal road signposted off the Soller to Puerto Soller road or via the
winding narrow road from Soller town.
Continuing the coastal road North East from Fornalutx provides impressive
mountain and coastal scenery and after some xxx kilometers to a fork where the
road North leads via a series of many tight hairpin bends to the small port of
LA CALOBRA with a bay and beach surrounded by mountains (
Image1,
image2 ). A ravine ( Torrent de Pareis ) leading into
the bay is the location for occasional concerts (
image ). Motorists visiting La Calobra
may wish to observe the convention adopted by local coach operators of descending to La Calobra before 1 pm and only departing
from La Calobra after 1 pm. The long winding
road descent into La Calobra can be avoided by taking a boat excursion from
Puerto Soller.
Retracing your route to the main coastal road you proceed North Eastwards for a
few kilometres until reaching another fork. Turning South on the road to Inca
will shortly bring you to a road leading East to the Monastery of Lluc.
The Monastery of Lluc is a large Monastery set in extensive grounds and complete
with high quality accommodation for overnight visitors and a refectory. The
impressive church holds a choir recital each day at 11.00 am. On the summit of a
nearby hill is a statue of Christ reached by a path commemorating the stations
of the cross. Picnic benches are provided within the grounds of the Monastery (
Image1,
image2,
image3,
image4,
image5 ).
Returning Northwards to the Coast road allows for the long winding scenic route
to Pollensa in the North East of the Island from which the Alcudia - Palma
motorway provides a easy drive to Palma.
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Excursions - Central Mallorca
(Map).
Many of the inland towns and locations within Mallorca are well worth a visit.
Most are relatively unaffected by tourism. You can visit Spanish bars and
observe the activity in traditional Spanish squares.
ALARO - a small town located in the lee of the Tramuntana mountains. From Alaro
an energetic climb may be made to the ruined Alaro Castle with magnificent views
over the surrounding countryside. A small nearby refuge offers refreshment and
simple overnight accommodation. A track passable by vehicles facilitates access to within
one kilometre of Alaro Castle and passes a popular farmhouse restaurant well
know for it's lamb dishes.
Beyond Alaro is the small town of ORIENT noted for two popular restaurants. The
winding circuit - Alaro, Orient, Bunyola - provides excellent mountain and
countryside views.
BUNYOLA, located off the Palma to Soller road, is the location of Alfabia
gardens. Several kilometres in the direction of Palma is the Riaxa Estate and
gardens - formerly a magnificent country estate which is now being restored to
its former glory and is well worth a visit.
SANTA MARIA, off the Palma to Alcudia motorway, is a small town with town
square, church, bars and restaurants and a famous Sunday morning market - noted
for fresh vegetables and general merchandise.
INCA, on the main Palma - Alcudia highway, is the centre of the leather industry
on the Island. A number of leather factories and associated showrooms may be
visited. An extensive street market is held on Thursdays.
MANACOR, the second largest town in Mallorca, is the centre for furniture
manufacture and noted for woodcrafts and ceramic manufacture. The wood and ceramic products
can be viewed in a variety of establishments located along the main road to Arta.
CAMPOS is a centre for agriculture on the island where vegetables are produced
for both export and to serve the local market.
BINISALLEM, located off the Palma to Alcudia highway, contains an impressive
church and picturesque square. It is the centre for winegrowing and hosts an
autumn wine festival (
Image1,
image2 ).
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Museums
and Monuments.
Mallorca boasts a variety of significant museums and monuments many of
which are to be found in Palma but many are located outside of Palma.
Palma Cathedral.- this
immense Gothic structure with its dramatic arching
spans also known as La Seu
was built on the site of a pre-existing Arab mosque. Construction was
commenced in 1230 and not completed until 1601. Impressive from afar and from
within.
Image-1,
Image-2,
More detailed
info.
Almudaina Palace - adjacent to Palma Cathedral - formerly the Muslim
palace of the Banu Ganiya, at the edge of the port. The building was converted
into a palace at the beginning of the 14th century on the orders of kings Jaume
II. Now houses a museum and is used by the King of
Spain, Rey Juan Carlos I for formal receptions during his summer holidays in
Mallorca. In front of the Almudaina Palace are located a popular area of gardens
and fountains.
Image1 ,
Image2.
Bellver Castle - at 137 mtrs above sea level the 700 year old Castle occupies a
commanding position overlooking the City of Palma. Originally the summer
residence for the Majorcan Monarchy, it later became a prison. It is well
worth a visit for the magnificent views and to examine the Provincial Museum of
Archeology, painting and numismatics. Used during the summer as a superb site
for a series of concerts.
Image1,
Image2,
More Detailed Info.
Pueblo Espanol - features scaled down
reconstructions of some 100 of the most renowned buildings and monuments of
Spain.- built between between 1965 and 1967 - a popular attraction and
venue for various events and banquets.
More
Information.
Arab Baths - tenth century baths that are the only
existing ruins of the Arab city of Medina Mayurqa.
Images and More detailed Information.
A Guide to the
History of the Baleares and Monuments by Mallorjanvillas.com
Section under development - more coming shortly.
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Guidebooks Featuring
Mallorca / Majorca.
A selection of useful guides to Mallorca which should be available from
Newsagents in Mallorca or from one of the specialist
English Language
Bookshops. Most of the Guides will also be available from
Amazon.co.uk. and from
MapsWorldWide.com.
Descriptions below courtesy of
MapsWorldWide.com with links to the MapsWorldWide catalogue.
AA Essential Mallorca (AA
Publishing, Paperback, 128pp, 192 x 105mm) Essential
travel guides are one of the world's best selling travel guide series. Includes
details of all the sites to visit, superb maps and tips on fitting into the
local scene.
Berlitz Pocket Guide To
Mallorca & Menorca (Berlitz Publishing Company, Paperback, 144pp,
145 x 105mm) A travel guide to Mallorca and
Menorca. It features insider information and travel tips, hotel and restaurant
details, language and culture tips, fold-out maps, and photographs. It...
Explorer: Mallorca (AA
Publishing, Paperback, 208pp, 219 x 130mm) The
Explorer Guides have a separate folded map, and each guide gives you the essence
of the place today - local life, local issues, local people. The guide contains
an extensive A ...
Landscapes of Mallorca (Sunflower
Books, Paperback, 136pp, 210 x 100mm) One of the
books that won us the Sunday Times 'Oscar' for best guide book publisher and
since 1984 the most widely-used walking guide for Mallorca. It was the first
walking guide f...
Mallorca (GeoCenter
International UK Ltd., Folded map, Scale 1:160 000) This
map covers the holiday destination of Mallorca. Tourist attractions are
highlighted with a red flag. The map is supplemented with photographs and
text....
Mallorca and Ibiza Insight
Guide (APA Publications GmbH & Co, Paperback, 316pp, 220 x 150mm,
Colour photographs and 13 maps) This is a travel
guide to Mallorca and Ibiza. This edition has been updated, and includes revised
essays and new photographs. It also features an updated, practical "Travel Tips"
s...
Mallorca and Menorca
Globetrotter Travel Guide (New Holland Publishers (uk) Ltd,
Paperback, 128pp, 180 x 128mm,) This
comprehensive, pocket-sized guide is crammed with information on Mallorca and
Menorca, travel tips and recommendations for the traveller. The detailed text is
complemented by ...
Mallorca and Menorca
Globetrotter Travel Pack (New Holland Publishers (uk) Ltd,
Mixed-media pack, 128pp, 180 x 128mm, 120 colour photographs, 20 maps) This
pack combines a comprehensive travel guide with a full-size travel map to give
tourists and visitors to Mallorca and Menorca, all the information they
require....
Mallorca CityMap Guide (Everymans
Travel Guides, Hardback, 18pp) ...
Mallorca Insight Compact
Guide (APA Publications GmbH & Co, Paperback, 104pp, 8 tours, 195 x
120mm, 180 colour photographs, maps) Including a
chapter detailing Mallorca's history and culture, this guide provides eight
tours taking in sights ranging from the superb 15th-century La Llotja to Lago
Marto's subter...
Mallorca: Thomas Cook
Travellers (AA Publishing, Paperback, 192pp, 192 x 130mm, 200 colour
photographs, 25 colour maps) Top quality travel
guides to the best holiday locations. Each guide includes the top sights as well
as the less well-known sights. There are walks and tours with specially drawn
...
Dorling Kindersley Eyewitness Top 10 Guide to Mallorca.
Features the top 10 best of everything, beaches, castles etc etc.
"A stay in Mallorcan Monasteries" - A Guidebook by long time
Mallorca residents Nick and Jill Carter - steeped in the history of Mallorca.
Available in the Book Worm bookshop in Palma Nova.
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Online Maps.
Interactive Maps of Mallorca from Multimap.com
Use the map to zoom into required area. Can search by post code. Return to Page Index.
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