The intoxicating beauty of Spain’s largest island has been attracting artists and musicians since the late nineteenth century, and recent days have transformed it into a hot spot for luxury resort vacations. Sweeping bays and clear, blue waters stretch out in striking contrast to the jutting cliffs and towering mountains of this Mediterranean locale.
Before You Go: Need-to-know info
Language: Spanish, Catalan
Flight time: 11 hrs from NYC, 16 hrs from L.A.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Getting around: Bicycle, car, boat, train, taxi
When To Go: Mallorca at its best
Best weather: The Mediterranean climate is mild most of the year. Average highs stay around 60 degrees in winter (December-March). July and August are the warmest months, with average highs at 86 degrees.
Best prices: November-March
Why Go
Phenomenal beaches: You’ll find the best of both worlds on Mallorca — fashionable golden shores speckled with tourists and secluded, sandy coves. Most visitors tend to stay near their resorts, and the lack of access to cars keeps crowds away from a number of beautiful beaches along the eastern coast. You may have to do a bit of legwork to get a spot all your own, but it’s worth it. If you simply drive and park further inland, a half-hour hike will take you to one of the deserted paradises like Es Carbó Beach.
Cool caves: Spend an afternoon at the Coves del Drac in Portocristo, where brilliantly designed lighting illuminates the limestone formations. A tour of the caves includes a live concert by classical musicians and a boat ride through the cavern’s underground lakes.
