Dear Guests,

Mallorca has put a lot of effort in improving the quality and appeal of local products such as controlled cultivation and production, quality regulations and refinement. The most impressive example is certainly the development the wine industry has taken over the years. Local wine used to be more or less average in quality and with a few exceptions mass reigned over class. Today Mallorca‘s wines are highly regarded in the national and international market, collecting gold and silver medals on international wine tastings and fairs. So make sure you don’t miss a glass of local wine…

Wines of the following wine makers and vineyards are of excellent quality:

• Miguel Gelabert (Manacor), his brother Toni Gelabert in the surroundings of Manacor, Jaume Mesquida in Porreres, Macià Batle in Santa Maria del Camí, Miquel Oliver in Petra, Hereus de Ribas in Consell, Son Bordils in Inca, Ca Sa Padrina in Sencelles, Anima Negra in Felanitx, Castell Miquel in Alaró or Can Majoral in Montuirí, C’an Vidalet close to Pollensa and Son Sureda between Manacor und Artà. Some bodegas offer guided tour, but pre-booking is essential (e.g. Jaume Mesquida, Santa Catarina, Macià Batle, Hereus de Ribas).

If you want to get an overview and some expert advice, best is to visit one of the following wine stores, which have the best bottles on stock and often the possibility to taste the wine by glass:
Malvasia Botiga de Vins (C/Joan Bauza 43, Palma), La Vinoteca (Pl. Virgen de la Salud, Palma), Isla Catavinos (C/Guillem Massot 45, Palma), Sa Vinya (C/Ronda de Migjorn 79, Lluchmajor), La Casa del Vino (Avd. Salvador Juan 73, Manacor), La Bodega Andratx (C/des Port 114, Port D’Andratx), Finca Gourmet (C/Sa Luna 16, Sóller).

The label Producto Cinco Estrellas (5-star-product) along with a quality seal ("Indicació geografica protegida") stands for quality. Keep that in mind, when shopping for local products like

• Hierbas and Palo, fine digestives and liqueurs (highly recommended are the products of Vidal Catany).
• Olive oil – watch out for the excellent, mild "Aubacassa" oil of Dauro, which is grown and filtered close to Manacor or the spicy and intense Solivellas from the Alcudia and Pollensa bay area.
• Sobrasada – the famous sausage made of pork with lots of tasty paprika. Enjoy it spread on your favourite bread or use it to add an interesting flavour to salsas, gravies or pasta sauce.
• Paté – especially delicious when made from the so-called black pigs “porc negre” (e.g. made at "La Luna" in Sóller, the island‘s oldest sausage and meat factory).
• Cheese – the most famous one is Mahón cheese which is produced in Menorca, but there is also a good selection of cheeses made in Mallorca available on local markets or in the supermarkets (e. g. "S´Atalaia" or "Formatges Burguera").
• Pa de Figo – dried bread made of figs, aniseed liqueur and crushed aniseed.
• Flor de Sal – a delicious sea salt made of the “salt flower” which is collected by hand in the salines of Es Trenc. It is available in many shops on the island either pure or in sophisticated blends, such as Mediterranean, black olives, hibiscus, rose or curry.
• Honey – natural, non-refined honey is for sale on many markets. Watch out for Sa Carrotja honey made in Ses Salines. Try the ones mixed with figs, almonds or chestnuts for a real treat.
• And, last not least, Ensaimada – the sweet spiral yeast cake made with lard and topped with plenty of icing sugar. Purist love the plain version but it is equally delicious filled with cream, topped with apricots and sobrasada (!) or with a soft pumpkin centre ("Cabell d´Angel" - Angels´ Hair). Ensaimada is a popular gift and widely available pre-packed in light cardboard for easy transport.

And because Mallorcans are proud of their products, they celebrate them on local fairs: e.g. snails (May, Sant Jordi), herbs (June, Selva), melons (2nd Sunday of Sept., Vilafranca de Bonany), Llampuga (the "golden mackerel", end of Sept., Cala Rajada), blood sausage (beginning of Oct., Sant Joan), Bunyols (last Sunday in Oct., Petra), olives (Nov., Caimari), honey (Nov., Llubi), mushrooms (Nov., Mancor de la Vall), partridge (Dec., Montuiri). But the most colourful and important fair on the island is dedicated to wine and held in Binissalem, the most important wine growing area of Mallorca. The "Festa des Vermar" is celebrated a full week at the end of September with processions, the famous grape battle, an open air banquet on the streets and wine tastings.

If you want to visit producers, vineyards and farms yourself you will find a lot of inspiration, information and opening hours on http://www.illesbalearsqualitat.cat. Besides tourist offices and the participating producers stock the official map „Agrorutes del Bon Gust“. This really helpful “route planner” shows all routes on the map plus all addresses, phone numbers and opening hours of the farms and producers on the back.

More souvenir tips: Siurells, these funny little clay statues with red and green dots are pipes at the same time, Greixoneiras, the traditional brown clay pods can be used for cooking or as a baking tin and are sold on the markets at a very economic price, appealing artwork and household articles made of olive wood (i.e. "oliv-art" at Manacor), glass-works by Gordiola, Lafiore and Menestralia, finally, leather products – especially from the centre of leather trade: Inca.

More shopping tips: The most commonly known supermarkets are Eroski and Mercadona. In addition there are the three large Carrefour supermarkets with a wide selection of international food (one in the big shopping mall "Porto Pí", one in Avd. General Riera near Via Cintura, one in Coll D‘En Rabassa, near the airport) and the Alcampo shopping-centre (directly beside the motorway Palma - Inca, just before Marratxi). A combination of shopping and amusement is the Festival Park Marratxi (Motorway Palma - Inca), with more than 100 shops and restaurants on 35.000 sqm. There are outlet stores, art craft markets, about 30 restaurants serving any kind of food from snacks to full meals, a nightclub, a 22-tracks-Bowling Centre, a multiplex cinema, the animal show "Green Planet", a skating centre and a lot more. The chamber of commerce has recently published a shopping guide for Mallorca, listing more than 229 shops which offer a 10 to 20 % discount for users of the guide. The guide is for free and can be picked up at the tourist offices or obtained directly from your tour operator.

Mallorcans love their markets. Not only can you buy almost anything - from food and clothes to artwork, plants and flowers and sometimes even living animals - markets are also popular for meeting friends and neighbours. The markets of the island are busy, colourful and fun. The most interesting ones are Sineu, Santanyí, Lluchmajor, Pollensa or Santa Maria del Camí.

Flea markets

Mallorcans say "Bon Profit" – which means “enjoy”. Lunch or dinner are important events all over Spain and are celebrated accordingly. Especially on Sundays whole families plus friends come together for an extensive lunch which can last for hours. With more than 2500 restaurants on the island it should be easy to find the right place to enjoy a tasty lunch or dinner. Almost every cuisine of the world is present, but make sure you don’t miss the delicious Mallorcan food. It‘s diverse and abundant, made from local produce and with a notable influence of Turkish, Arab, Jewish and Roman cooking. Mallorcan cuisine offers simple peasant meals but also elaborate dishes that are difficult and time consuming in preparation. Local products are key, such as full flavoured tomatoes from Banyalbufar, oranges and lemons from Sóller, lambs and goats from the mountains, fruits and vegetables from the centre of the island, porc, beef and dairy from the south and finally fresh fish and other seafood from the coast. Not to forget the exquisite wines from the different areas.

Tapas! A tapa can be nearly anything: barbecued, cooked, roasted, pickled – with meat, fish, seafood or vegetables. Tapas are served in mini servings ("para picar") or as normal / half servings ("una ración / media ración"). You can enjoy tapas as a starter or order 3 or more as a main course. Most Spanish restaurants offer a standard selection of tapas, but a real treat are the specialised tapas bars, which can offer up to 50 different variations. Locals will usually order tapas for the whole party (enough to cover the table entirely) and will share the food among each other. If the choice is too much go for "tapas variadas", a selection of the most popular tapas served on one plate.

Something quite exceptional is the Menu del Día, which is served daily except weekends in all restaurants and which includes a starter, main course, dessert, a bottle of wine, water and coffee. Prices in most restaurants range from 08,00 € to 13,00 €, more sophisticated restaurants usually charge a bit more, but prices will still be below 20,00 €. If you want to try the delicacies served in the island’s top restaurants at an economic price, the Menu del Día is an excellent choice.

Tip: In Mallorca‘s restaurants – like on the Spanish mainland – you have to wait to be seated. Prices shown in the menu don’t include the 7% VAT (I.V.A.). The bill is usually made per table, individual bills are very unusual. The waiter will return your change on a small plate or tray, leave your tip on the plate before you leave (as a guideline about 5% of the total bill).

Our favourite choice in the North of the Island:

Alcudia, Port Alcúdia and surroundings

Pollensa and surroundings

Speciality of the island:

• Pa amb oli – roasted, nearly salt less bread with a spread of garlic and tomatoes and a good drizzle of olive oil. Heartier versions include e.g. ham, jamón serrano and/or cheese.
• Sopes mallorquines – hotpot made of bread and vegetables and a good deal of cabbage.
• Frito mallorquin – a kind of roast potatoes with offal, vegetables and olive oil.
• Arroz brut – "dirty rice", saffron-spiked rice hotpot with vegetables and meat or fish.
• Tumbet – a vegetable casserole based on potatoes, onions, eggplants and peppers with tomato sauce.
• Conejo con cebolla – rabbit with plenty of onions and a very tasty gravy.
• Cordonizes – barbecued quails
• Lomo con col – cabbage leaves stuffed with pork, sobrassada, pine nuts and raisins.
• Peix mallorquina – fish with red peppers, pine nuts and raisins.
• Porc negre – so called black pig, local breed of pig with tender and tasty meat that is usually barbecued
• Trampó – crunchy salad made of red and green peppers, onions and tomatoes, sometimes topped with tuna and shrimp
• Cap Roig – the scorpion fish from the waters around Cabrera is delicious despite his grim look.
• Gambas de Sóller – the dark red, rare shrimp which can only be found at the Sóller coast range among the best shrimps in the world.
• Caldereta de Llagosta – delicious hotpot with lobster, usually only available on pre-reservation
• Llampuga – kind of mackerel, locally called „storm fish“ as its fishing season starts, once the first storms have passed Mallorca
• Flan casero – homemade sweet pudding with caramel topping
• Gató with ice cream – this fluffy almond cake is usually served with almond ice cream
• Greixonera de Brossat – a cheesecake baked in the traditional clay casseroles “greixoneras”

Mallorca has than 200 beaches and small bays. Water quality is generally very good or good, with a few exceptions close to towns or ports. Many beaches are rewarded the Blue Flag every year– the quality sign for excellent water and protection of the environment. Most beaches (except of some small and/or distant bays along the west coast) offer the usual infrastructure like renting of parasols and deck-chairs, beach bars, sports facilities. Prizes vary considerably. For parasols and deck-chairs there is a fee of about 8,00 € to 14,00 € a day. A cheaper alternative is to bring your own parasol and beach towel (available in most beach shops).

Please pay attention to the colour of the beach flags! The red flag means stay out of the water / no swimming allowed, the yellow flag means swimming allowed but dangerous. Only the green flag means green light for water fun. At first sight, the warnings might appear to be exaggerated, especially when the sea seems to be calm on the surface. However, there might be dangerous currents below the surface so trust the experienced judgement of the life guards and follow their recommendations.

The most populare beaches in the North of the island are:

Cala Tuent

Turnoff on the way to Sa Calobra on the C710 road. About 2 km before you reach the bay there‘s a turnoff on the left to Cala Tuent. The small cala is a beach with pebbles, quite romantic and not very crowded.

Sa Calobra
Turnoff from the C710. A 13 km long and at some points very narrow winding road which ends at the famous Torrent de Pareis at Sa Calobra bay. The place is a popular destination for bus tours and excursions, the beach bars are quite expensive. Very busy at high season, spectacular scenery. Sa Calobra is the starting point resp. destination of hiking tours (medium to high level).

Cala Sant Vicenç
The village of Cala Sant Vicenç (about 4,5 km north of Pollensa) is set on the seaside and has three picturesque bays and beaches, beautiful scenery! Cala Sant Vicenc is very popular with divers thanks to the deep clear waters and the variety of species. There is a sandy beach, but waters are steep, so be careful with children. All facilities available including various restaurants and bars, sun lounger hire, parasols etc..

Cape Formentor
Between the lookout Es Colomer and the lighthouse at the very end of the cape, you will find various small bays and beaches. The biggest beach is Platja Formentor right next to the Formentor hotel. This beach can be quite busy in summer and is a favourite spot for boat tours. It is 500 m long with shallow waters and framed by pine trees. All beach facilities available. Four smaller and less crowded bays can only be reached by foot (leave your car at the main road): Cala Figuera (formerly a landing-point of the pirates), Cala Murta (with a beautiful little chapel nearby), Cala Feliu and Cala Gossalba. No public facilities and no natural shade.

Pollensa Beach
At the northern end of the Pollensa bay. This long sandy beach is softly descending and very suitable for children. It is framed by mostly two to three storey hotels and apartments. All beach facilities available, incl. a sailing and surf-school. Good selection of bars and restaurants along the promenade. The closer you get to the Alcúdia side, the more neglected seems the beach (mainly sea-weed and algae).

Alcúdia Bay
The Alcúdia bay is approx. 11 km long. It starts with the peninsula Victoria (with Cape Pinar) in the North. If you follow the coast to the South, you come to the fine sandy beach of Alcanada. All beach facilities available, incl. bars and restaurants. Port D‘Alcúdia itself is a busy seaside resort, with 2 to 3 lines of hotels and apartment buildings along the beaches. The beach is long, sandy and waters are mostly shallow and well suited for families with children. All beach facilities available. The area is popular with surfers, particularly in spring and autumn. Watch out for dangerous streams and swirls on stormy days and respect the flags. Further to the South in the direction of Muro, the beaches are less busy.

Platja de Muro
This beach is between Port D‘Alcúdia in the North and Can Picafort in the South and framed by dunes, pine-trees and a few villa urbanisations. Good water quality, shallow waters (suitable for children). Waters can be dangerous on stormy days. Beach facilities towards the Northern part.

Can Picafort
In the centre of Alcúdia bay and highly popular with German tourists. The main beach is lined with hotels and apartment buildings, shops, bars and restaurants. Off the main beach, there are dunes and pine-woods, which are a popular destination for hiking or horse-riding. The beach itself has shallow waters (suitable for children) and is very popular. All beach facilities available.

Platja de Son Baulo and Son Serra de Marina
Further to the South is the Platja de Son Baulo, a small bay with a sandy beach. Even further South is the long sandy beach of Son Serra de Marina. As an environmentally protected area, there are almost no beach facilities available. Almost no shade, partly a nudist beach.

Colònia De Sant Pere
Quiet holiday resort that used to be a traditional fishing village A few hotels, some apartment-buildings and holiday villas. There is a small sandy beach well suited for children close to the harbour. Some restaurants, bars and shops at the small seaside promenade. In direction of Cape Ferrutx there are some romantic bays and beaches, surrounded by woods and rocks and only accessible by foot, and without any beach facilities (e.g. Calas Toró, Mata, Es Caló).

A pleasant climate, beautiful landscapes and a network of hiking trails of around 300 km make the island a popular destination for hikers. If you choose one of the easy routes or a demanding mountain tour for experienced hikers, there are a wealth of flora and fauna and marvellous views to be discovered.
We recommend suitable outdoor outfit and equipment and please stay on the marked tracks as some will be leading through private estates (signpost: "coto privado") and passage is only allowed on the tracks. If you come across a gate or a fence and passage is allowed, please make sure you shut it after passing. Never light fire and don’t leave any garbage along the way! Summer and late spring and autumn are hot, so always take enough water with you. Another option is to discover Mallorca by bike. The local government has been promoting cycling tourism for more than 40 years and is steadily expanding the network of routes and trails (approx. 240 km currently developed). Bike hires are available in most resorts and offer anything from the simple city-bike to professional mountain bikes (i.e. Mallorquin Bikes in Cala D’Or, www.mallorquin-bikes.de, phone 609 237 637)

For fans of the golf sport the island is heaven. There are 24 courses (incl. three non-public courses), with more come. Green fees range from 50,00 to 120,00 €, caddies will cost about 40,00 € and trolleys around 4,00 € to 7,00 €. Here some selected locations of the island:

• Golf Alcanada – 18 holes, Par 72, 6.477 m, challenging. Marvellous sea views (Ctra. del Faro s/n, Port D’Alcúdia, www.golf-alcanada.com, 971 549 560).
• Golf Pollensa – 9 holes, Par 35, 2.652 m. Challenging, slightly hilly landscape, magnificent views (Ctra.Palma-Pollensa km 49,3, www.golfpollensa.com, 971 533 216).
• Capdepera Golf – 18 holes, Par 72, 6.273 m, challenging. Steadily ascending after hole 14. Panorama views at the end of the course. (Ctra. Artà-Capdepera km 3,5, www.golfcapdepera.com, 971 818 500).
• Canyamel Golf – 18 holes, Par 73, 6.186 m, entertaining and challenging. Shelters, ditches, rocky surroundings, many climbs. (Avda. D´Es Cap Vermell. www.canyamelgolf.com, 971 841 313).
• Golf Son Servera – 9 holes, Par 36, 2.978 m, challenging. Short fairways, fast greens, one of the oldest courses of the island (Urb. Costa des Pins, www.golfsoncservera.com , 971 840 096).
• Pula Golf – 18 holes, Par 71, 6.003 m. About 10-years-old, also suitable for beginners (Ctra. Son Servera - Capdepera, km 3. www.pulagolf.com , 971 817 034).
• Golf Club Vall D´Or – 18 holes, Par 71, 5.824 m. Long fairways, marvellous views over the countryside and the sea (Ctra. Porto Colom - Cala D´Or, km 7,7 near S‘Horta. www.valldorgolf.com , 971 837 001).
• Golf Son Antem East – 18 holes, Par 72, 6.372 m, suitable for beginners. (Ctra. Lluchmajor, km 3,4. 971 129 200).
• Golf Son Antem West –18 holes, Par 72, 6.293 m, challenging, tournament course (Ctra. Lluchmajor, km 3,4. 971 129 200).
• Golf Son Termens – 18 holes, Par 71, 5.272 m. Sophisticated, modern course, built to ecological standards. Short, narrow fairways, wonderful views of Palma (Ctra. S‘Esglaieta, km 10, about 15 min. north of Palma. www.golfsontermens.com , 971 617 862).
• Golf Son Vida – 18 holes, Par 71, 5.740 m. Oldest course of the island (first player ever has been Rainier of Monaco), challenging, beautiful location (Urb. Son Vida, www.sonvidagolf.com, 971 891 210).
• Son Muntaner Golf – 18 holes, Par 72, 6.347 m. Well kept and in a nice location. (Urb. Son Vida, www.sonmuntanergolf.com, 971 783 030)
• Real Club Bendinat – 18 holes, Par 70, 5.650 m. Sophisticated and one of the most beautiful courses on the island, long tradition and long fairways (Urb.Bendinat; C/.Campoamor, s/n, www.realgolfbendinat.com, 971 405 200).
• Golf de Poniente – 18 holes, Par 72, 6.430 m. Appealing design in an unspoilt scenery. (Ctra. Cala Figuera – Costa de Calvià, www.ponientegolf.com, 971 130 148)
• Golf Santa Ponsa 1, 2 und 3 – 18 holes, Par 72, 6.545 m, course 1 allows for a fluent game, 2 and 3 open to club members only. (Urb. Santa Ponsa, www.habitatgolf.es, 971 690 211)
• Golf de Andratx – 18 Loch, Par 72, 6.089 m, sophisticated course with views of the mountains and the sea. (Ctra. Palma – Andratx, www.golfdeandratx.com, 971 236 280)
• La Reserva Rotana – 9 holes, Par 36, 2.815 m. Only for hotel guests, but in peak season also for guests of the restaurant (Ctra. Camí de Avall, km 3, Manacor, www.reservarotana.com, 971 845 685)
• Golf Park Puntiró – 18 holes, Par 71, 5.546 m. Design by famous golf champion Jack Nicklaus. (Cami Vell de Sineu, km 9.45, S’Estanyol de Puntiró, www.golfparkmallorca.com, 971 603 851)
• Golf Maioris – 18 holes, Par 72, 6.000 m. Open to the public only on request and from Monday to Friday, otherwise only for shareholders (Ctra. Cap Blanc, km 6.3, www.golfmaioris.es , 971 748 315)
• Golf Son Quint – 18 holes, Par 72, 6.300 m. Only opened in 2007 this hilly course is next to the Son Vida Golf club. (Crta. Son Vida, www.hotelsonvida.com , 971 783 035)
• Golf Son Gual – 18 holes, Par 72, 6.621 m. Sophisticated course which was opened in October 2007. (Crta. Palma – Manacor, exit Son Gual, www.son-gual.com, Tel. 971 785 888)

If tennis is your sport you will be spoilt for choice and will find clubs open all year round:

• Alcúdia Tennis Club (606 455 900), Club Tennis Pollentia in Port D’Alcúdia (629 658 610), Port Pollensa Tennis club in Port D’Alcúdia (600 419 588 / 653 179 989), Club Tennis Muro (630 652 465), Club Tennis Artà (657 311 572), Club Deportivo Font de Sa Cala in Capdepera (971 563 291), Tennis Center San Simo in Cala Millor (C/Los Almendros, 971 587 114), Club Tenis Bella Vista Cala Millor (971 813 519 / 971 220 139), Club Tennis Manacor (971 551 160), Club Tennis Felanitx (971 582 264), Club Tennis Cala D’Or (659 689 801), Robinson Club in Cala D’Or (13 sand courts), Club Tennis Llucmayor (971 661 660).

Horse riding has a long tradition in Spain and there are many well-established riding schools around. To discover the island‘s beautiful landscapes on a horseback or take a ride along the beach can be an unforgettable experience. Another highlight is the visit of one of the trotting-races at the Manacor hippodrome on Saturdays (Ctra. Palma - Artà, km 49).

Diving fans will appreciate the wild, cliffy coastlines of the west and in the east of the island. Hidden caves, extraordinary rock formations and an underwater flora and fauna of exceptional diversity. For security reasons you should prefer guided diving excursions. There are various diving schools on the island, e.g. in Cala D‘Or, Porto Petro, Cala Figuera, Puerto de Andratx etc..

The sea around Mallorca belongs to the most popular sailing grounds of the Mediterranean. Sailing boats and yachts can be chartered in almost all marinas but a valid license is required. Beginners will find sailing or surf schools in most ports also with English-speaking instructors. Guided boats tours are available e. g. at the `Caribia Yacht Charter´ at Porto Colom (656 288 179) or ask in your local tourist office.

The following section will provide a wealth of ideas and tips for excursions and sight seeing in the North of the island, from the mountain lakes North of Sóller to the impressive Torrent de Pareis, the famous monastery of Lluc, Cape Formentor at the most Northern point of the island, the interesting towns Pollensa and Alcúdia, the caves of Campanet and the national park of Albufera close to Alcúdia.

Mountain lakes
Northeast of Sóller on your way to the Puig Major (the highest mountain on the island with 1445 m), there are two sparkling water reservoirs which are part of the national park, "Embalse de Cúber" and "Embalse de Georg Blau". Both reservoirs‘water is of an enchanting turquoise blue and they are surrounded by overgrown limestone mountains.

Sa Calobra with Torrent de Pareis
One of the most popular and impressive locations between Port de Sóller and Cala de Sant Vicenç. You get there either by car or by booking a bus tour (no public transport available). A small winding road of no less than 13 km length is leading down to the bay 800 m below. Also available are day excursions by boat, starting from Port de Sóller. Transfer takes about one hour. On arrival most visitors pass the pedestrian tunnel to the entrance of Torrent de Pareis, a perfect spot for an open air lunch in the midday sun or to simply enjoy the marvellous views through the 400 m high walls of rock to the sea and the light yellow sandy beach. In summer the river bed is nearly dried out and overgrown with shrubs which make it possible to explore the valley on a hiking tour through the river bed. During winter and at times in spring and autumn the water will be too high to walk in the river bed. Ask for local advice before you start for a hiking tour. Both beach bar and restaurant at Sa Calobra are expensive and of regular quality. We recommend bringing your own lunch. Hiking: A challenging and impressing trip of 7 km starts and ends in Escorca and will lead you through the Torrent de Pareis during a 5 hours walk.

Lluc Monastry
The most important monastery and Mallorca‘s most cherished place of pilgrimage is located south of the C 710 (section Sóller-Pollensa) in a narrow valley of the Serra del Norte. Every year believers go on a pilgrimage to worship the Black Madonna, called "La Moreneta". As legend tells the icon of only 60 cm height was discovered by a converted Moorish boy after the Christian recapture of the island. In 1230 a chapel was built in her honour. The ground was given to the order of Augustines by King Jaume I in 1260 and the monastery was built to its present splendour over the following centuries. Most buildings are dating back to the 17th and 18th century. Don’t miss the impressing renaissance portal with a highly elaborated rose-window, rich decoration inside, and a museum with sacred and archaeological pieces. Part of the monastery is a music-boarding-school, with 60 boys aged between 9 and 14 living there. A very special and moving experience is their daily performance in the late morning (not during holidays). The boys choir Els Blavets is looking back on a long tradition and is as famous in Spain as the "Wiener Sängerknaben" in Austria.

Vall D‘En Marc
Following the C 710 from the Lluc monastery further to the North you will pass the romantic valley Vall d’en Marc. The rich green, the diversity of plants and some impressive mountain chains will make this passage a very special experience!

Pont Romà and Castell del Rei
At the end of Vall D´En Marc and before reaching Pollensa, you will come across some remnants of the Roman heritage. In 440 a.C. the Vandals destroyed Pollentia (today Alcúdia) and dispelled the Romans. Those then founded New Pollentia (today Pollensa). The old Roman country road crossed a river, the Torrent de Sant Jordi, at the bridge "Pont Romà" with two impressive stone arches. Hiking tip: Close to the bridge you can follow a track leading to the ruins of Castell del Rei (approx 8 km distance). The castle was one of three castles belonging to the former Kingdom of Mallorca (Note: the track is not always accessible as it crosses private property).

Pollensa
The town of Pollensa is supposed to be one of the most beautiful towns of the island. To discover the old town we recommend leaving your car outside the town centre as the narrow streets make it unpleasant to drive and find your way around. If you like a good walk, you should climb the 365 steps leading up to the Calvary and a small chapel. The views from the top are marvellous with the sea and Port de Pollensa in the distance. The old town of Pollensa has been lovingly renovated over the last years and offers a very genuine atmosphere, a vivid local scene, bars, restaurants and many interesting art galleries. Most are near or on the main square (Plaza Major) or tucked away in one of the small side streets. In August and September Pollensa celebrates the annual festival of classic music with many international stars around. On Sundays there is a lively market on the main square which is worth visiting.

Port de Pollensa
Unlike other seaside resorts the former fishing village Port de Pollensa had already developed its own character well before tourism hit the island. Take your time and join the English, French, and Spanish tourists for a stroll in the picturesque streets, along the harbour or the seaside promenade. Port de Pollensa has kept its authentic charm and is still a calm small town rather than a hot spot for night life. It is a popular starting point for cyclers and hikers to take a tour to the Formentor peninsula. Tip for bookworms: Agatha Christie‘s novel "Problem At Pollensa Bay" gives an insight into the life of Port de Pollensa during the late twenties.

Cape Formentor
The peninsula Formentor in the very north is famous for the spectacular landscape and the dramatic views. A small winding road is leading to the cape with the almost 150-year-old lighthouse along mountains, cliffs and the sea. (There is a kiosk, little restaurant, and parking available at the lighthouse). There are several spectacular lookouts, but the most famous is Punta la Nau (also called Mirador Es Colomer, with parking). The views over the port, a small island and the sea are just breathtaking. Opposite the lookout is a track, which is leading up to the watchtower Talaia D’Albercuix (16th century). Again the views are spectacular.

Ermita De La Victoria
This hermitage is located on a peninsula about 6 km north of Alcúdia. The name of the church goes back to a legend, according to which in the 13th century a young shepherd discovered a Madonna at this very same spot and built a chapel in her honour. Although the Madonna was stolen by pirates more than once during the 16th century, it miraculously returned to where it was originally found and was therefore named Mare de Deu de la Victoria ("Blessed Virgin of Victory"). The building was fully renovated in the 18th century, the architecture with the heavy walls and small windows still reminds of the difficult times of medieval attacks. The Madonna itself is part of the main altar of the chapel. Every July 2nd pilgrims will walk to the church from Alcúdia to warship the saint and to celebrate a joyful feast around the church.

Alcúdia
Alcúdia, the oldest town of Mallorca, is in the North-East of the island and was founded by the Romans in the year 123 BC. The original name was Pollentia. After the Vandals had burned down the town in the 5th century the inhabitants moved further north and founded New Pollentia, the present Pollensa. 400 years later the Moors built a new town on the hill next to the Roman ruins. "Al-kudia" is the Moorish word for hill, and so this name was given to the new settlement. The Moors used part of the Roman ruins as a quarry, but a lot was neglected. Today the Roman heritage is omnipresent: the two town gates, the magnificently restored town wall, originally built as a shelter from pirate attacks and remnants of a Roman theatre (Teatro Romano). The church of Sant Jaume, which was built in the 13th century, is a must see for those interested in churches and architecture. Also worthwhile visiting is the archaeological museum (Museu Monográfico de Pollentia) in the former oratorium of the church. Or you simply relax in one of the cafés at the Plaça Carles V or the Plaça Constitució.

Port d‘Alcúdia
Port d‘Alcúdia (2 km from Alcúdia) is a busy seaside resort at the end of the Alcúdia bay. At the same time it‘s Mallorca‘s second largest harbour (after Palma). The modern, well-designed promenade directly at the port is a nice place to take a drink and observe the passersby. Overall Port d’Alcudia has all facilities of a modern holiday resort with an international selection of restaurants, nightlife, gift shops, hotels and apartment buildings.

Cova de Sant Martí
The cave church of Sant Martí which is an important memorial of early Christianity is about 2 km south of Port D‘Alcúdia. The limestone cave, trenched 20 m deep in the ground below Puig de Sant Martí, served as a secret shelter for Christians in the 2nd and 3rd century, who were persecuted by Roman troops. In this church the believers came together for the Lord’s Supper and for church services. Whether the cave was also used as a church under Moorish rule is not confirmed, however, the existence of two altars from the 13th century make it seem likely. Above the altars you can see faded images of St George fighting with a dragon and of St Martin. In another part of the cove the St. Martin spring fills a natural fountain.

National Park of S‘Albufera
The National Park of S‘Albufera (about 5 km south of Port D‘Alcúdia) is the largest wetland of the Balearics. The area was originally used as a hunting ground in Roman times. The name originates from the Arabian word “al buhayra”, small lagoon or lake. During the 17th century people started to mount small lots, separated by countless canals. In the 19th century an English company started a project to drain the area, but without any success. In the 20th century the area was used to grow rice, the reed was used to produce paper. When tourism started in the 60ies the government bought 830 ha of the ground to prevent destruction of this unique biotope. Today the “Parc Natural de S’Albufera” covers a total area of 1700 ha. The wide network of tracks along canals and lakes is only accessible by foot or bike. The park is famous for the rich flora and fauna including a spectacular variety of birds. More than 200 species can be observed from 4 look outs, binoculars are provided against a small fee. Apart from the wealth of birds, the park is also home to turtles, frogs, fish and insects. If you want to learn more about the flora and fauna in the area, you can pick up the information brochure at the entrance or follow the multimedia show in the official information centre.

Coves de Campanet
This cave close to Campanet was discovered in 1945 (follow the signs from the road Inca - Alcúdia) and is much less crowded with visitors than the caves on the East coast. There is no subterranean lake, but that doesn’t make it less beautiful. The real attractions are two 4 m high, but only 4 mm thick stalactites (also called "spaghettis"). As any “special effects” like lightshows and sound have been avoided, a visit is a very authentic experience.

A nice experience for the whole family: a day-out in one of the big aqua parks. Fun and entertainment with slides, pools and dolphin shows is guaranteed. The parks are open from May to October. Kids will also enjoy an outing to one of the nature preserves to observe wild animals, reptiles or exotic birds.

Hidro Park and Super Golf
In Port d’Alcúdia: Smaller than the Aqualand in Magalluf or Arenal but a nice selection of coloured slides in all shapes. Relax in the nicely landscaped gardens or opt for a round of golf on the 18-hole-minigolf-course. There‘s also a restaurant and a café. The park is only open in summer (Port D‘Alcúdia, Avda. Tucán, 971 891672, adults 15,00 €, children 8,00 €, www.hidropark.com).

Palma Aquarium
A really spectacular seawater park which is a one-to-one copy of the natural habitat and ecosystem of the oceans. Discover the spectacular beauty of the sea. 55 fish tanks show an exceptional variety of flora and fauna of the Mediterranean, the Indian Ocean, the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. Observe more than 8000 specimen of 700 different species in this fabulous underwater world. The aquarium is open all year. (Motorway Palma-Llucmajor, exit 10. Follow the signs to “Can Pastilla”. The aquarium is at the beginning of the street C. Manuela de los Herreros i Sorà - number 21. Opening hours 10:00 – 18:00 hrs. Last entry 17:00 hrs. Adults pay 18,50 €, children (age 4 to 12) 14,00 €

Aquarium Mallorca
Discover the sea: This aquarium in Porto Cristo has more than 115 windows on two levels to observe the flora and fauna typical for the waters around Mallorca. Species include coral fish, rays, tuna or squids, but also typical sea weeds and colourful corals (C/Gambins, 7, in Porto Cristo, 971 820 971).

Waterworld
This aquarium in the small seaside resort Colonia Sant Jordi has its focus on the waters around Cabrera. The official visitor centre opened in 2008 and gives a fantastic insight of flora and fauna of the archipelago, which is one of the most cherished nature preserves of the Balearics. More than 4000 fish and shellfish can be observed in 17 fish tanks. Guided tours will start every full hour, the tour includes 2 short films about the archipelago. The aquarium is open all year from 10:00 to 14:30 hrs and from 15:30 to 18:00 hrs.

Exotic Parque
In the East: The Exotic Parque Los Pájaros just off the country road from Porto Colom to Porto Cristo is home to more than 600 specimen of about 100 different bird species such as parrots, marabous, cockatoos, flamingos, cranes and many more. If you arrive early you can enjoy the daily parrot show from 11.30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Not less fascinating are the ancient cactuses growing in the vast gardens, which are up to 4 meters in height. Peacocks swagger around the grounds, there is a petting zoo for children and a nice playground with trampolines. (Cales de Mallorca, 971 183 492).

Marineland
Southwest: Spectacular dolphin shows are the main attraction of the marineland, but there are also trained sea-lions, dancing parrots and monkeys. The fish tanks include sharks, piranhas and other tropical fish, but also penguins. And the “Casa Tropical” is home to snakes, crocodiles and turtles. More attractions for kids include a playground with a miniature train and a mini-motorbike course. If you would like a break you can take a drink in one of the two cafés, one overlooking the sea, the other one at the flamingo lake. Alternatively you can relax at the nice sandy beach, which is just next to Marineland, and come back later to continue your visit. (C/Garcilaso de la Vega, 9, Costa d´en Blanes, 971 675 125, adults 16 €, children 11 €, www.aspro-ocio.es).

Aqualand Magaluf
Southwest: Waterslides, pools and whirlpools in all varieties will keep your children busy all day. For even more fun there is a playground, trampolines, a kart-course, an adventure river and the lake surrounded by lawns. For refreshments and snacks you can choose from a simple bar, a cafeteria, hamburger-station and a pizzeria. (Ctra. Cala Figuera s/n, 971 130 811, adults 17,00 €, children 12,00 €, www.aspro-ocio.es).

Western Water Park
Southwest. A theme park with cowboy shows, Mexican dance groups, high diving etc. (Ctra. Cala Figuera Sa Porrasa, 12-22, Magaluf, 971 131 203, adults 16,00 € Euros, children 11. www.wester-park.com).

Es Foro de Mallorca
Centre: Close to Binissalem this entertainment park is set around a castle-like main building and includes a waxworks museum, a small water park with slides (less spectacular than the Aqualand parks), a kart-course, a playmobile western town and minigolf, bar, restaurant and a souvenir shop (Ctra. Palma - Inca km 25, 971 511 228).

Green Planet – Reptilarium
Theme park next to the shopping mall "Festival Park", Marratxi. "Green Planet" is a theme part built on 9000 sqm area and one of the most spectacular attractions of its kind in Europe. Enjoy a walk through tropical rain, cross rope bridges, pass waterfalls and temples and feel like Indiana Jones for a day. There are also different sections with animals from Africa, Central- and South-America, Asia, the Mediterranean and the deserts. Crocodiles, turtles, chameleons, snakes – about 6.000 animals in total. Other attraction are the botanical collection of exotic plants, a "Wildlife"-shop, a playground, a cinema, and a picnic ground (motorway Palma - Inca, km 7,1, inside Festival Park Marratxi, 971 605 481, www.greenplanet.com).

Aqualand El Arenal
El Arenal: Another theme park from the Aqualand group. On more than 207.000 sqm visitors can enjoy the latest in wild water fun, the adventure lake "Lago Aventura" (an adventure parcours which would be a challenge for Tarzan), two huge whirl-pools and of course a variety of waterslides. Parents will find an area to relax in the gardens. There are restaurants, ice-cream bars and snack bars, boutiques, spectacular shows with parrots, raptors and reptiles and trampolines. (Ctra. Palma - Arenal, km 15, 971 440 000, adults 20,00 €, children 14,00 €, www.aspro-ocio.es).