The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca is an azure-colored jewel. Our newest hotel, Kimpton Aysla Mallorca, is tucked away amongst the island’s lush gardens with a modern wellness focus and two picture-perfect pools. Within walking distance is the island’s top golf course, many scenic hiking trails and more than 250 sparkling beaches are just a short ride away.
For those who have never been to this European island paradise, you’re in for a treat. From its charming villages to its top-notch local cuisine, we’ve got the details on everything you need to know for your next trip to Mallorca.
Photo by Alessa Ciraulo
In The Heart of the Med
Just over 100 nautical miles off the coast of Barcelona, Mallorca is the largest island of the four Balearic islands. Located in the western Mediterranean, it’s easiest reached by a one or one-and-a-half-hour flight from Spain’s major cities. If time isn’t of the essence, it’s a five-hour ferry ride from Denia’s port or an eye-watering nine hours from Valencia.
It’s a Holiday Hotspot
A much-loved vacation destination for travelers from Europe, especially the UK, Mallorca has exploded in popularity in the past two decades. With its white, sandy beaches, ancient village architecture, gourmet food and world-class nightlife, it’s easy to understand why.
During your trip, visit picturesque historic towns like Banyalbufar, Alcudia and Fornalutx. If you’re a beach bum, pack sunscreen for some of the island’s best beaches, including Calo d’es Moro, Cala Mondragó and Platja de Alcúdia.
Kimpton Aysla Mallorca
A Car is Crucial
Renting a car gives you the ultimate freedom to explore the island on your terms, especially because there’s no Uber. So rent a car from the airport and be sure to book early if you’re traveling to Mallorca during peak season, aka summer. Also, if you don’t know how to drive a stick shift, book even earlier, as automatic cars are extremely limited in Mallorca.
All drivers must be over 21 years old and have a valid license and an International Driver’s Permit, painless to purchase from a local AAA office. They drive on the right side of the road in Mallorca, but beware, roads are very narrow, so drive with caution, and if you can, choose a small, manoeuvrable car.
Avoid Peak Times
While summer on the Med does sound tempting, the best times to visit the island are its shoulder seasons. From April-May and September-October, you get all the glory without the crowds. The weather is still stunning in spring and fall, the beaches are less crowded and the roads are more manageable. Plus, everything from dinner reservations to cars to tours are easier to book.
Kimpton Aysla Mallorca
Dress For Vacation Success
Mallorca is a fantastic beach destination where flip-flops and sun hats are a must. But the true beauty of Mallorca is in its small villages and national park, Parc Nacional de Cabrera. For these destinations, it helps to have sneakers and comfortable workout gear for the cobblestone streets, steep steps and winding hiking trails.
If you plan to go out to any of Mallorca’s standout Michelin-starred restaurants or chic cocktail bars, a few slinky evening outfits and dressy shoes are recommended.
Get Your Grub On
Known locally as ‘Mallorquin’ food, it’s all about fresh, ripe, area ingredients. From vine-picked tomatoes to fish swimming mere hours ago to salt from the island’s southern flats, it’s some of the finest Mediterranean food around.
The island’s capital city, Palma de Mallorca, is a food haven. Meat and seafood dishes loaded with olive oil and garlic grace tables as carafes of wine empty. Don’t leave the island without trying two very different foods: ensaïmada and sobrasada. Ensaïmada is the perfect breakfast food, a light and flaky pastry made with lard. It’s like a Spanish cousin of the croissant. And for lunch, sobrasada, a fatty and flavorful cured pork sausage, goes great on just about anything.
