Where to stay in Mallorca?

The largest island of the Balearics attracts a somewhat different crowd to its smaller sisters. Ibiza is happening and Menorca is remote. Mallorca is somewhere in between the two, providing the right balance for the more sophisticated type of traveller.

Embark on a journey to discover the unparalleled beauty of Mallorca, the greatest jewel of the Balearic Islands. This island will captivate you with its stunning beaches and crystal-clear coves, its diverse landscapes ranging from beautiful plains to majestic mountains, and its rich cultural and historical heritage. Immerse yourself in the charming stone villages and let yourself be seduced by the delicious local gastronomy. In addition, Mallorca offers a wide range of water and outdoor activities that will give you an unforgettable experience.

Our favourite towns and villages, places to see and places to stay:

  • Where to stay and what to visit in Mallorca
  • What to do: activities, traditions and culture
  • What gastronomic delights await me in Mallorca

As a guide to authentic, unique and beautiful places to stay, we have put together a list of the best boutique hotels in Mallorca, B&Bs and guest houses. You will also find a curated selection of elegant luxury hotels in Mallorca, whether with a view over the crystal-clear sea or in the rural idyll of the mountains and plains. If you wish to be more independent and savour the local environment there is also a choice of beautiful luxury villas and holiday homes in Mallorca.

You will furthermore find:

Our favourite towns and villages in Mallorca where you will find our small boutique hotels and villas in Mallorca

Choose from our boutique Mallorca hotels and romantic Mallorca hotels and accommodation by clicking on the map or list on the right. These will highlight a wide selection of small Mallorca hotels, including romantic hotels in Soller, fincas, cortijos, bed & breakfasts, Palma de Mallorca boutique hotels amongst others. Whatever your taste, we’ll help you find that perfect getaway.

What to do in Mallorca? Activities, culture and traditions in Mallorca

Mallorca is a beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea, known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. While it is a popular tourist destination, there are still plenty of authentic experiences to be had that are off the beaten path. Mallorca offers a wide range of activities and excursions for visitors. The island's stunning bays and beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing or simply relaxing with a book. The island's beautiful hiking trails through the mountains or along the coast are also perfect for exploring on foot, while horseback riding, canyoning and paragliding are also available for thrill-seekers. On the water, visitors can choose from a variety of activities including sailing, boat tours, dolphin watching, jet skiing or stand-up paddling. There is truly something for everyone on this beautiful island.

For those who love the outdoors, Mallorca offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring. Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Mallorca, as the island is home to a vast network of trails that offer breath-taking views of the mountains, coastlines, and countryside. The Serra de Tramuntana mountains are a popular spot for hiking, and there are many trails to choose from. UNESCO declared it a world heritage site for being a very special site. You can also explore the island's caves, visit the beautiful beaches of Es Trenc, Cala Llombards, or Cala Figuera, or take a boat trip around the island's coastline. Exploring the island's caves is a must-do activity in Mallorca. The Caves of Drach is one of the island's most famous attractions, with a network of underground lakes and stunning rock formations. The Caves of Arta, on the other hand, offer a more off-the-beaten-path experience, with a series of chambers that are home to some of the island's most impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Mallorca has a rich and diverse culture that is influenced by its history, geography, and position in the Mediterranean. The island's culture and traditions are a fusion of various influences, including Roman, Arab, and Spanish, and are deeply rooted in the island's past. One of the most important cultural events in Mallorca is the Festa de Sant Joan, which takes place on June 23rd and is celebrated with bonfires, fireworks, and traditional dancing. The island is also known for its traditional folk music, which is characterized by the use of instruments such as the xeremier (a type of bagpipe) and the flabiol (a small flute).

The island's architecture is also an important part of its cultural heritage, with buildings such as the Gothic cathedral of Palma and the ancient town of Alcudia reflecting the island's rich history. The island's many small villages and towns are also home to a range of traditional buildings, including stone houses and windmills.

Mallorca is also known for its traditional crafts, including pottery, basket weaving, and leatherworking. These crafts are often sold in markets and shops around the island and are a popular souvenir for visitors.

One of the most unique aspects of Mallorcan culture is the island's language, which is a variant of Catalan. Mallorcan is a distinct dialect that is spoken by the island's residents and is an important part of the island's cultural identity.

Finally, Mallorca is also known for its festivals and celebrations, which are often rooted in tradition and reflect the island's diverse cultural influences. These festivals include the Festival of the Moors and Christians, which is celebrated in Pollença, and the Sant Antoni Abat festival, which takes place in January and is celebrated with bonfires and traditional dancing.

Overall, Mallorca's culture and traditions are a unique blend of influences from various cultures and are deeply rooted in the island's past. From traditional music and crafts to unique festivals and celebrations, the island's culture is well worth exploring for visitors who want to experience the rich history and heritage of this beautiful Mediterranean island.

Gastronomy in Mallorca

Mallorcan cuisine is totally Mediterranean. The basic ingredients are usually vegetables such as peppers, tomatoes, zucchinis, eggplants and garlic, and lots of fish. Dishes are mainly prepared with olive oil, which is also produced on the island itself. The foods have an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and simple but delicious recipes.

One of the most iconic dishes in Mallorca is the pa amb oli, a simple but flavourful dish that consists of bread, olive oil, tomatoes, and cured ham or cheese. This dish is a staple of the island's cuisine and can be found in almost every restaurant and cafe.

Seafood is another important part of the Mallorcan diet, with dishes such as arros brut (a rice dish with seafood and meat), caldereta de llagosta (lobster stew), and suquet de peix (fish stew) being particularly popular. The island's fishermen use traditional fishing methods, ensuring that the seafood is of the highest quality and freshness.

Mallorca is also known for its cured meats, such as sobrassada (a soft, spreadable sausage made with pork and paprika) and botifarró (a traditional sausage made with pork and spices). These meats are often served as part of a platter of cold cuts, along with cheeses and olives.

The island's agriculture also plays an important role in its gastronomy, with fresh fruits and vegetables being used in many dishes. One of the most popular dishes is tumbet, a vegetable dish made with potatoes, eggplant, red peppers, and tomatoes.

Finally, Mallorca is also known for its desserts and pastries, with ensaimadas (a sweet, spiral-shaped pastry dusted with powdered sugar) being the most famous. Other popular desserts include coca de patata (a sweet potato cake) and gató de almendra (an almond cake). 

The island also produces regional wine.

Overall, Mallorcan gastronomy is a delicious and diverse culinary tradition that is well worth exploring. Whether you're sampling fresh seafood, cured meats, or traditional pastries, the island's cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you with a lasting impression of Mallorca's rich culinary heritage.