Majorca Holidays Summary
Majorca Introduction
Majorca is part of the
Balearic archipelago located off the eastern coast of
Spain near
Valencia. Since the middle of the last century it’s been a popular tourist destination for many, particularly the Germans and the
British.
Majorca has the largest of the
Balearic islands, and has the highest population with 676,516 inhabitants (2001), followed by
Ibiza (2001 estimate, 80,000),
Minorca (2001, 71,524), and
Formentera (2001, 5,553).
Palma in
Majorca is the region's capital (2006 estimate, 375,048).
Majorca Island is dynamic with its dramatic mountains, hidden coves and various historical archeological sites.
Majorca is a year round holiday destination but is most popular in the hot summer months when temperatures average 25-30C. The winters are mild with warm days but cooler nights and can be wet from October to January.
Majorcan specialities tend to centre on pork, vegetables and soups. Ensaimada, a spiral-shaped sweet flaky pastry is worth a try, along with sobrassada, a spicy pork sausage. Why not also taste coca de trampo, a pizza-style dish with fresh peppers.
Majorca Sports and Water Sports
Majorca is has many water sports to keep its visitors entertained and a water park which is understandably very popular with children and the young at heart.
Majorca Holidays are also popular with golfers.
Majorca also boasts of some exotic sea life and going
snorkelling or scuba diving on your
Majorca Holidays is a great way to see what lies beneath. If you are planning to go scuba diving you either need to have a diving certificate (for deep sea tours) or take a scuba diving course before beginning.
Majorca History
Majorca is steeped in history, and
Palma's municipal museum, which displays archaeological artefacts and old coins, is a hilltop castle that was once the home of the island's royal Family. From the Romans to the Moors, each civilisation has left an imprint, enriching the culture and adding another dimension to the island and its warm, friendly people.
Majorca is known for its stalagmite caves and for its architectural treasures and prehistoric monuments. The abandoned old monastery where Chopin and George Sand lived is an island landmark.
Majorca Souvenirs and Gifts
Majorca is renowned for its beautifully crafted artificial pearls. Found in shops all over the island, they make a great value treat or gift.
Majorca Beaches
Majorca is well endowed in this respect with
great beaches surrounding the island on all sides. Your choice of location is will most likely hinge on how lively or relaxing a time you want on your holiday.
Majorca Resorts
Majorca has a choice of resorts from the famous, (possibly even notorious)
Palma Bay resort of Magaluf with its sister
Palma Nova and their wild club scenes, to the historical heritage of the pretty and much more sedate
Puerto Pollensa in the north with a waterside pine walk lined with bars and cafes, and the restful
Porto Cristo. You have the culture and
shopping in Palma, or the
glorious beaches of Alcudia, or the various children's attractions and superb restaurants dotted throughout the island.
Santa Ponsa and
Alcudia are more suited to families.
Alcudia town is certainly worth a visit. The compact town centre is perfect for leisurely walks, and the antique lanes area a great place to stop for a bite to eat. Alcudia's 12 km beach is considered the
best in Majorca and is ideal for families and couples alike.
