Serra de Tramuntana and Other Spectacular Places in Mallorca

The summer holiday season may still be some way off, but are you taking your break in April? Don’t worry. The second month of spring marks the start of the season in one of Europe’s truly beautiful destinations. Frequently celebrated in literature, Mallorca is ready to impress with its scenic landscapes, sunny days and mild Mediterranean climate. If you have never been to Spain, start with Palma de Mallorca for an experience you will never forget.

How can you make your holiday in Spain truly vibrant and memorable? Start by exploring the island and discovering its varied, enchanting landscapes. Hiring a car and having confident driving skills is ideal for this. To reach the places with the most breathtaking views, you will need to head uphill. The winding roads of the Serra de Tramuntana lead to excellent viewpoints overlooking mountain slopes and blue coves. There are plenty of campsites, while the roads can be fairly busy, mainly with tourist traffic. There are far fewer cars in the early morning and at night. Drive carefully along the mountain roads and take time to admire the surrounding scenery. The Serra de Tramuntana lies in the northwest of the island and stretches for around seventy kilometres. It is slightly cooler and receives a little more rainfall than the south, although rain is uncommon during the season. This beautiful rocky landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also highly regarded by climbing enthusiasts, who rank it alongside famous peaks around the world. There are countless underwater and coastal caves, dramatic cliffs, tree-covered slopes and, of course, warm azure waters. Millions of visitors come to Mallorca every year to enjoy its natural wonders. Don’t deny yourself that pleasure.

Incidentally, this is not the island’s only mountain range. The Serres de Llevant extend across the east. Almost as long as the Serra de Tramuntana, they too offer wonderful scenery and places to relax. Nearby are the popular Coves del Drach and Coves dels Hams, both open to visitors. Their dark stone walls, overhanging stalactites and clear illuminated waters of underground lakes can be seen near Porto Cristo. There are plenty of excursions available, so it is easy to visit even if you decide not to hire a car.

You do not have to stay in a hotel. The many accommodation options, including villas, apartments, guesthouses, holiday rentals and campsites, are also worth considering—especially if your route takes in much of the island. Beyond the capital, you can discover atmospheric places by taking the Ma-11 towards Sóller and Port de Sóller. They can also be reached by train. Add Lluc Monastery and Cap de Formentor Lighthouse to your list as well. And do not forget the cosy coves hidden among the rocks. There are many of them, and each has its own appeal. Both the lighthouse area and the coves have beaches where you can swim and sunbathe.

After exploring the island, return to Palma de Mallorca to discover its cultural heritage. The capital’s largest and most famous building is the Cathedral of Santa Maria, known as La Seu. During one phase of its restoration, the celebrated Gaudí contributed to its redesign. Among the architectural sights is the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, built on the site of an Arab fortress. It houses a museum and serves as an official residence of the King of Spain. The Royal Gardens lie beside the palace and have their own fascinating history, which you can discover during your visit.

Nearby, the Episcopal Palace is home to the Diocesan Museum. Those interested in religious art will appreciate the 13th-century altarpiece depicting the Passion of Christ. This part of the city also includes the Church of Saint Eulalia, the Church of Monti-sion, the Arab Baths, and the monasteries of Saint Francis and Saint Clare. Wander the medieval streets lined with small houses around the Church of Saint Eulalia.

In the historic city centre, you can easily find the Gran Hotel, a masterpiece of Catalan Modernism.

A walk beyond the city centre leads to Bellver Castle. Perched on a hill, it was once a royal summer residence and later a prison; today it is a museum and one of Mallorca’s most recognisable symbols.

There are some excellent places for a stroll here. Be sure to visit Parc de la Mar, the city’s main park. Located beside the sea and the Cathedral, it is a favourite place to relax for both visitors and locals. An artificial saltwater lake was created to form a striking panorama, designed to reflect the cathedral building.

Getting around the city is convenient on the sightseeing bus, which travels between Palma’s best-known attractions. Check its route to plan your cultural discoveries more efficiently.

The city hall building is also an attraction in its own right. Construction on the site of a hospital took a long time and was completed at the end of the 19th century. Today, you can admire its Baroque façade, Gothic entrance and beautiful ceremonial staircase. Along the façade runs the “Bench of the Lazy.” It was once where people who declined offers of work would gather, always giving a reason beginning with the phrase “if it were not for.” This expression gave the bench its name.

Discover contemporary art at Es Baluard Museu d'Art Modern i Contemporani de Palma and the Fundació Juan March Museum. Postmodernism, pop art and minimalism are all represented, alongside works by outstanding 20th-century artists. If that appeals to you, do not miss the opportunity.

For entertainment in the city and surrounding area, visit the zoo, water park or aquarium. And, of course, enjoy everything connected with water sports and seaside leisure.

A comfortable, stylish holiday in Mallorca is entirely within reach. Compare the travel options for getting to this welcoming island, including ferry connections, and begin exploring Spain from one of its most captivating destinations.