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 Southeast of the Island:

S’Horta & Calonge & Cala d’Or

Porto Colom

S’Alqueria Blanca & Porto Pedro

Santanyi & Cala Santanyi & Cala Figuera

Ses Salines & Colonia Sant Jordi

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 Southeast of the island are:

Porto Cristo
In town: Small beach directly beside the picturesque harbour. Tourist and gastronomic attractions are on hand. Rarely crowded. Nice for a short stop during an excursion ( walk through the town incl. a visit at the caves `Coves del Drac´ and `del Hams´). About 3 km south one reaches Porto Cristo Novo with the bays Anguila (about 120 m lenght and 200 m wide, accessible over a staircase), Mandia and Estany (100 m lenght, 150 m wide). All beaches are not very big and for parts are framed by wooded rocks. Further south there are the bays Cala Romantica and Barques. The first is surrounded by small hotels and holiday homes, about 100 m long, with fine sand and only a small beach bar. The other one lies without buildings, has no tourist services, and rocky shores. Because the `Coves del pirata´ are nearby, it is also called "pirates´ bay". They are both sign-posted (turning at the road Porto Cristo - Santanyí).

Cales de Mallorca
Cales de Mallorca are several small bays in the east of the island (about 10 km north of Porto Colom), at the steep shore between Cala Magraner and Cala Murada. Single bays are surrounded by hotels, others are only framed by urbanisation and decently established holiday plants. But there are also unpopulated bays, cosy and romantic (Cala Bota, Cala Magraner, unfortunately not easily accessible, by boat or on foot. The tiny sand beaches as Cala Antena (20 m long) are already occupied very early in the day.

Porto Colom
Idyllic location (particularly the old part). Bathing possibilities beside the harbour and north of the town. Nice alternative at the south edge: the spit `Sa Punta´, with a small sand beach. Some tourist services. South of the location this is different: In front of some hotel buildings lies Cala Marçal, with all its services. A softly descending sand beach (suitable for children), cared for, very popular at season. A little bit further south the small, but fine Cala Bravi.

Cala Sa Nau
The small bay Cala Sa Nau (about 50 m large) situated 3 km north of Cala D´Or, and it‘s easily accessible. The bay with its clear water is framed by flatly descending limestone and it‘s relatively untouched – except of a small beach bar – there are no buildings – just natural landscape. Parasols and deck-chairs can be rented. The beautiful pine-woods around Cala Sa Nau invite for a walk along the shores.

Cala Mitjana
The small sand bay north of the tourist centre Cala D´Or is accessible on a path from Cala Serena. There is a flatly descending beach, clear water and a beautiful landscape. You should take supplies with you, there are no bars or restaurants in the cosy bay.

Cala D´Or
There are several bays resembling fjords, which can be reached easily from the architecturally attractive holiday location. During the season they are connected by a little tourist train.
Cala D´Or, the "gold bay", is framed by pine-trees and limestone. Lightly descending sand beach (suitable for children), but narrow, and sometimes crowded. Alternatives for sun-bathing: the flat rocks around. Beside: the Cala Gran (biggest of all), Cala Esmeralda, Cala Ferrera and Cala Serena: Narrow beaches, also surrounded by pine-woods. Partly descending very steep, and for that appropriate for diving and snorkling. Cala serena permanently is visited by the guests of Robinson Club. Cala Llonga is not appropriate for bathing, being a harbour bay - but good for strolling and "Après Swimming": many exclusive fashion shops, bars, cafés and restaurants.

Cala Mondragó / Cala S´Amarador
4 km south of Porto Petro (approx. 5 km east of Santanyí) lies the wonderful Cala Mondragó. A white, softly descending sand beach (220 m large, 70 m deep), surrounded by dense woods with pine-trees and stone-pines. A few hotels are hidden behind the trees. Parasol/deck-chair-renting. Nearby the café-bar Cafeteria Cala Mondragó, with snacks and grilled fish, mid scale prices, friendly to children. Tip: Take a walk along the rocks to the romantic Cala S‘Amarador opposite. There are no buildings disturbing the impression, the parking lot lies 500 m away. Both bays are wonderfully situated, parasols and deck-chairs can be rented. During the season they are sometimes crowded, but they are worth a visit! Another walk leads to the calm and distant small bay Cala Burxill. Thanks to a group of environment protectors the whole region ten years ago has been declared a "Parc Natural Mondragó" – with many seldom birds and plants.

Cala Santanyí
3,5 km south of Cala Figuera (50 m large). A beautiful, softly descending sand beach (suitable for children). Framed by wooded rocks, also good for snorkling. All tourist offers on hand, beautiful footpath along the cliffs to Cala Figuera (about 40 minutes).

Cala Llombards
Beside the Cala Santanyí is the even bigger, but calmer Cala Llombards, surrounded by pine woods. Softly descending, beautiful sand beach (suitable for children). All tourist services, nice beach bar.

Cala S´Amonia and Cala de Sa Comuna
Two small, beautiful, but not yet overcrowded bays near Ses Salines. Park the car and walk downhill/the stairs carefully. There are no services, bars or restaurants. Take along your own drinks and snacks , parasols and mats. It‘s not appropriate for small children.

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.

In this section we give some hints about the island‘s south-east, beginning with the fascinating caves around Porto Cristo, continuing with nice towns like Felanitx, Cala D‘Or, and Santanyí, the monasteries Santuari de Monti-Sion and Sant Salvador, up to the cape of Ses Salines.

Coves del Drac
An attractive tourist side are the Coves del Drac (dragon caves) near Porto Cristo. They are the biggest and oldest stalactite caves of Mallorca, and are named after a mythical dragon, who is said to have been guarding a treasure there in former times. Because there are no guided excursions through the path system inside 12 natural halls, decorated by illuminated stalagmites and stalagtites with strange names, you have to make more than 1500 m by yourself – until you reach the subterranean, constantly 20 degrees Celsius warm lake "Llac Martel". It‘s said that its extensions (177 m x 40 m, up to 9 m deep) exceed those of all other cave lakes on earth, but nobody knows if that‘s really true. Above there‘s a 17 m high cave. During the middle ages the caves served already as a hiding place when pirates attacked the island, but it was explored for the first time 1896 by the french scientist Edouard-Alfred Martel, by order of the archduke Ludwig Salvator. Martel found out that there even exists a connection to the sea, and that therefore the water has a certain salt content.
In the year 1922 a clever Majorcan bought the estate, built paths, staircases and seats, and opened a new access. Some years later he provided for a colourful illumination and background music, and already since the beginning of the thirties it has been possible to drive over the lake by boat. This has not changed until today, only the boats are modern, and the light and music show (once per hour) is more extensive. From the platform one can comfortably watch the spectacular show. The caves are situated 15 minutes south of the town‘s centre, and they are easy to find. They are opened at every full hour for visitors, but because of the rush it‘s better to come already at the first or at the last show, otherwise you might wait too long. At the exit of the caves there‘s free parking, about 200 m away from the entrance (Ctra. Porto Cristo - Cala Murada, 971 820753).

Coves dels Hams
Coves dels Hams, the second popular cave system of Porto Cristo, are comparable to the more famous Coves del Drac. These caves, situated at the road to Manacor, 2 km out of the centre, also have a colourful illumination, and the bizarre stalagtites are formed like harpoons (therefore the name "hams"). There are 14 halls and a small lake called "Mare de Venezia", and there is also a music show.

The dimensions of the cave, discovered in 1905, are smaller than in the Coves del Drac, but there are guided walks offered, 40 minutes long, along the narrow paths and through a nearly round, huge subterranean hall. There‘s less rush than at the bigger caves, and it‘s open all year long (Ctra. Porto Cristo - Manacor, 971 820988, www. cuevas-hams.com).

Felanitx and the church of Sant Miquel
Felanitx is a cosy little town in the south-east, where the residents are mainly still among themselves. On sundays the town gets really alive, because then the big market takes place and attracts also many visitors. The stands can be found over the whole centre, in the streets around the parish church Sant Miquel at the Plaça Espanya, with its impressive front steps, decorated with geometric mosaics made of pebbles. At first sight the sacral building seems to be a little oversized for this town, but the place has a long history: Already in 1248 there was built a church here for the first time. The present building, however, whose baroque facade is dominated by a renaissance portal, a beautiful rose-window and a statue of the patron saint Michael killing the dragon, is from the year 1762. Inside the church one can admire an elegant scenery, as i.e. a high altar and an impressing organ and beautiful coloured stain-glass windows. In one of the side chapels there is a neat wooden altar top, and the ceilings are decorated with chandeliers. A nice piece of art also is the Saint Francis chapel, formed by the Felanitx architect Guillem Sagrera, who also had worked on the trade centre of Palma (La Lonja) and the sea trade centre of Naples. Opposite the church a staircase leads downstairs, at its end one discovers a fountain, finished in 1980, with a source called "Font de Santa Margalida". In honour of the patron saint, a big feast is celebrated every year at the end of July. Restaurant tips: Estragon – mediterranean cuisine, nice atmosphere, cheap lunch menu. On sundays, after the market, there‘s also cheap lunch at the Café d‘es Mercat. Out of town: Son Colom – famous for cheap and extensive buffets (especially at lunch time!) with Majorcan home-cooking. Playground for children outside. Vista Hermosa (Hotel Villa Hermosa) – high style and high prize mediterranean international cuisine, in a fine hotel with a wonderful view from the terrace.

Santuari de Sant Salvador
The 509 m high monastery mountain of Sant Salvador and its hermitage Santuari de Sant Salvador lie 6 km north of Felanitx, and can be reached easily over a winding road (formely a pilgrims‘ road), which passes an impressing stone cross an the stations of the cross-road. The basic stone of the monastery was laid in 1348 by the administrator of the nearby Castell de Santuari, but the church was built in 1716. At first sight the building more resembles a castle than a sacral building, and that has to do with the adventurous past of the monastery: During the middle ages the monks had to suffer numerous attacks of pirates. In contrary to the simple facade the interior of the church is richly ornamented, a good example for gothic church art, the most impressing attraction being a particular alabaster altar top (16th century), which shows parts of the Supper and the Passion, built by the famous Guillem Sagrera or one of his pupils. From the church square one has a wonderful view to the castle opposite and the surrounding countryside. The monastery is an important pilgrims‘ location and attracts many visitors, who are supplied by the monks not only with souvenirs, but also with food and simple lodging. From the monastery one can take a beautiful walk along the ridge, up to the 7 m high Christ monument "Cor de Jesús", which was built up in 1934.

Santuari de Consolació
The monastery Santuari de Consolació lies near S´Alqueria Blanca, it was built in the 16th century. One enters the church with its statue of the "Madonna of the Consolation" through a round arched portal. According historical reports there once lived the pious woman named Scholastika, who strongly desired rain, so that her pleasure-seeking brother, the holy Benedict, could not leave the estate, but had to stay with her. Her prayers were granted, and since then she is included in many Majorcans‘ prayers.
Once a year, after Easter, a pilgrimage takes place here, which ends up with a big revel. The pretty, but also simple works with their dainty belfry stand upon the 200 m high hill, from where one enjoys a wonderful view over the surroundings and the southern coast area. A romantic spot for a picnic at sunset...

Cala D‘Or
One of Mallorcas most popular holiday resorts. The town was founded in the thirties under the name Cala S‘Hort by the artist Josep Costa Ferrer. It especially shows an outstanding architecture: White washed one- or two-story-Ibiza-style-houses and luxurious gardens make up the visual impression still nowadays. The vivid centre of the town, with its many boutiques, art craft shops, souvenir shops, and numberless gastronomic establishments of all kinds, is mainly planted as pedestrian area is perfect for taking a walk, shopping, or just having a snack in one of the bars or restaurants. A must is a stroll around the picturesque marina of Cala D’Or.

Santanyí
It‘s not by chance that houses in Santanyí seem to look much softer than elsewhere – that‘s because here the golden Marés rock (sandstone) is obtained, which has been used for the cathedrale and the Llonja in Palma. The old city gate (Porta De Sa Murada) was also built with this sandstone, and it reminds us of Santanyí once having been surrounded by a city wall, mainly as a protection against pirates, who formerly concealed their plunder in the nearby quarries. Inside the church Sant Andreu Apostel there is a huge rococo-organ, designed by Jordi Bosch, and brought here from a big monastery in Palma. On Saturdays, in the streets around the church takes places one of the most vivid markets of the island.

Cala Figuera
The small fishing village surely belongs to the most picturesque spots of the island. It‘s sited at a fjord-like bay, that‘s much extended into the country, dividing itself in two branches at its end, and with numerous fishing-boats and sailing-boats anchoring there. There are beautiful restaurants with terraces. Tip: Take a walk to Torre D‘En Béu, an octagonal lighthouse of 6 m height, which lights up to 12 sea-miles in the night. Take the path leading around the narrow bay, walk up to the cliffs and enjoy the beautiful view back to the harbour.

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).

Underwater world
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).