Majorca is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, with visitors from the UK, Germany, Russia and beyond. This beautiful island in the Mediterranean guarantees good weather, delicious food and countless idyllic beaches. But what if you want to get away from the crowds?
Despite the numbers of visitors to places like Palma, Magaluf and Alcudia, Majorca also has plenty of unspoiled coves, villages and even national parks that allow you to relax in your own piece of tranquility… you just need to know where to look.
In this piece we feature some of the best places to get away from the masses and relax on your holiday in Majorca.
CABRERA
This unspoiled and (relatively) unknown part of Majorca is technically not part of it at all… it’s an uninhabited island located off the southern tip. Forming part of the Cabrera Archipelago Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, day trips to this spot of paradise are readily available and, as was recently announced, single overnight stays are now permitted. Cabrera is the ideal place to spend time away from the huge crowds and resorts. Those who love swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and even trekking into the hills are well catered for. Boats leave daily from Colonia de Sant Jordi but it’s worth trying to book your place as visitor numbers are limited to 200 per day (300 in high season).
There are a number of boat operators who run tours and trips in the area but Marcabrera is one of the better known. The website See Mallorca has a number of options.
If you’d rather avoid having to take a boat trip, the Mondrago National Park in the south is stunning. With white sand beaches and turquoise seas, you’d think you were in the Caribbean. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore the wetlands and walk further inland. The nearby town of Santanyi has traditional Spanish courtyards, bustling markets and plenty of restaurants to spend the afternoon in.
ES TORRENT DE PAREIS
Hidden on the west coast of Majorca, these gorges are amongst the largest in the Mediterranean and it’s the hidden, sandy beach that attracts people. This isn’t one for the fainthearted; inaccessible by car, it’s a tough 8km walk through the limestone canyon from Escorca that can take anywhere between 4 and 6 hours, but it’s worth it once you reach the end and get to take a dip in the cooling waters of the med.
Es Torrent de Pareis is most easily accessible from the town of Sóller and if you want to avoid the riverbed (that’s dry most of the year) you can approach from the car park at Sa Colobra and, once reaching the river mouth, come back the way you came. This route is easier and more suited to less-experienced hikers.
Whichever route you take, you will need good quality boots, lots of water and the usual basics like a hat, sunscreen etc. We recommend taking a guided tour from a reputable company such as Rock & Ride.
SÓLLER
The town of Sóller in the north west of Majorca is quiet enough to feel like you’re on holiday and in a different country, but still busy enough to keep you entertained on a day trip. Connected to the Port of Sóller via an original 5km tramline built in 1913, the area boasts traditional architecture, with cafes, bars and restaurants that are focused on the Plaça Constitució main square.
The square is lined with trees and a large fountain in the middle which is the ideal place to have lunch and enjoy a coffee (or something stronger) in the sun. After lunch, wander through the side streets before getting on the tram and making your way to the port. There are few better places to sit and enjoy your evening meal while looking over the quaint fishing port.
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