A getaway through the north of Mallorca
In addition to its renowned beaches, the largest of the Balearic Islands has other attractions to enjoy in depth: many of them are concentrated in the sophisticated northern area of the island.
Land, sea and air
Whether in a sailing boat, a yacht or a typical Majorcan vessel, there are suggestions for all tastes to enjoy cruising around the blue waters of the island’s coastline. Those who also want to enjoy it by land, travelling along some of its twisting roads, have the option of renting a convertible, a vintage car or an all-terrain vehicle from one of the many companies that offer them. And those who want to admire the island from the air can opt for ideas such as that of Mallorca Balloons, which offers group and exclusive flights for four people, accompanied by some of the best pilots in the world.
Local vineyards
Few people know that Majorca shelters over 70 vineyards, many of which offer guided visits and wine tastings. They make up an excellent way of digging deep into the island culture, and many of the most interesting ones are concentrated in the north of the island. In Banyalbufar, a village that is settled in between the terraced vineyards that descend to the sea, they produce wines such as ‘malvasia’ a sweet white wine. It may be tasted, for example, in the Son Vives vineyard. Close to Pollença is there is another vinery that is worth visiting, the Can Azartell vineyard. It had been excavated into the rock and produces a 100% ecological wine using a unique technique.
Between nets
The local gastronomic products inspire some of the most original activities that can be carried out on the island. To live a unique experience, companies such as Pescaturismo Mallorca organise days on the sea where passengers accompany local fishermen for a day to catch fish that subsequently are cooked on the boat in a seafood rice dish. Another product closely linked to this land is the oil, with many farms in Majorca having their own mills. For years, there has been a predominance of activities surrounding this, such as visits to olive presses, thematic dinners or routes amongst the hundred-year-old olive trees.
Art galleries
With views out over the Mediterranean, narrow, twisting streets, full of bougainvillea, cypress and palm trees and majestically perched on a mountain, Deià has a unique attraction that invariably entrances anyone who strolls through its streets. In addition to trying any of its top-quality restaurants, another must here is to browse through its art galleries, boutiques and artisan workshops. Those who can afford it can stay at the Belmond La Residencia, where guests enjoy the hotel’s art gallery, Sa Tafona. The establishment’s resident artists also offer classes in painting and sculpture to guests, which can even be carried out on the beach.
Port Pollença
Enjoying the extensive offer of water sports is obviously always an important plan in Majorca. One of the towns that offer most proposals in this area is Port Pollença. Companies such as Sailaway Charters organise sailing trips, lasting from a few hours to an entire day to dive and snorkel, while at Sail&Surf Pollensa, those who wish to surf or windsurf will find a wide range of recommendations. Visitors who prefer to learn how to handle a kayak or to improve their technique and become true experts, can go to specialist companies such as Piraguas G.
Orange groves
An old nostalgic wooden tram connects the capital city, Palma de Majorca, with Sóller, one of the most authentic and lively villages on the island. Set in a valley of aromatic orange groves, its lively squares full of terrace bars where they serve excellent, freshly-squeezed juices surprise visitors. Here, some of the most outstanding architectonic buildings on the island may be found, with ancient palaces and French-style mansions. A few steps from the centre, the Jardí Botànic displays many varieties of plants from the islands, whilst in Can Prunera works by Kandinsky, Picasso, Warhol or Barceló may be seen.
