Mallorca is the unsung hero of European Summer holiday destinations and perhaps that is for the best. While others flock to the crowded Mykonos and Ibiza (which I love, don’t get me wrong), this humble island brims-over with amazing food, seaside views, active sports and warm, generous people. Mallorca was my final dreamy weekend escape while living in London for July and August this past Summer, and undoubtedly my favorite trip. This guide gives you a little insight as to why and how to make the best of a long weekend trip there…
What to Pack:
- Mallorca was actually a lot more dressy than I imagined it would be. Fun summer dresses and heels will not have you feeling out of place in Palma. It’s also exceptionally hot in the summer months so I would definitely encourage you to pack lightweight, breezy pieces to keep cool. A statement sun hat and bathing suit, with a mix of punchy, printed dresses and you’ll be good to go!
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Saratoga, Palma de Mallorca: I spent my first night here and it was the perfect introduction to the island. Boasting an amazing rooftop view of the city with a pool, it was easy to pass the time here with a book and aperol spritz. The hotel was also conveniently located; walking distance to so many key spots in Palma including the modern art museum and main shopping area.
- Bikini Island & Mountain Hotels, Port de Soller: I headed up the westside of the island for the remainder of my trip and this property was a truly exceptional abode. The hotel has the most exquisite balcony view overlooking the port with a contemporary meets bohemian design aesthetic. It felt like I was walking through the book Gypset Living by Assouline meets Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul in Mexico City. Furthermore, the front desk team were super proactive about helping us book reservations at Ca’s Patro March as well as my personal boat tour. They really went above and beyond to make sure everything came together.
- Belmond La Residencia, Deia: I didn’t get the chance to stay here but from what I could see it is an incredibly idyllic, painter’s paradise. It’s tucked away in the mountainous region of the island and adorned with fuchsia bougainvillea, olive and citrus groves, at the edge of the artists’ village Deia. If you are looking for a true 5-star experience on your holiday, this would be it.
What to See:
- Palma de Mallorca: you must see Catedral de Mallorca, Passeig del Born, and get lost in the cobble stone streets while leisurely strolling into gelato shops and cute boutiques.
- Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art: stunningly designed building situated seaside boasting a really impressive curation of contemporary art.
- Port de Soller: one of the only areas on the island that actually has sand on the beach, it is super charming and idyllic. You can’t go wrong stopping for a meal along the boardwalk to watch the sunset.
- Chartered Boat Ride: the absolute best thing I did while visiting Mallorca was orchestrating my own personal boat tour from 10 AM – 2 PM one morning with SollerMar! My skipper Marc was incredibly knowledgeable about the island and all the underwater creatures we encountered while we snorkeled our way through cenotes and caves. I even got to hold the local fried egg jellyfish (that doesn’t sting) while in the water.
- Cala Deia: no trip to Mallorca is complete without a visit to Cala Deia, in particular the little seaside restaurant serving up the best grilled calamari I’ve ever had: Ca’s Patro March. Make sure to make reservations well in advance as it books up quick!
Where to Eat:
- Ca’s Patro March: as I mentioned above. I’ve got to be honest that if there is one restaurant you plan on visiting while in Mallorca, this is it! I didn’t do a terrible amount of restaurant hunting while in Mallorca but I can assure you that between the fresh fish and view, Ca’s Patro March will raise a new culinary bar for you.
Where to Shop:
- Folklorious: gorgeous curation of both well recognized and emerging accessory, shoe, and clothing designers. The merchandising was so unique and eclectic, I gobbled my gelato down in 2 mins just so I could go inside and try on some pieces.
- Sunvibes Palma: boho dresses for the modern gypset handmade in Mallorca.
- Passeig del Born: you’ll find some chain stores but also local concept shops and the tree lined street will take your breath away.
Where to Play:
- Bar Abaco: super wacky and surreal church like interior adorned with bizarre fruit arrangements. You feel as though you are walking through a portal to the past, baroque period.
- Es Baluard Restaurant & Lounge: situated alongside the modern art museum, facing out towards the Mediterranean, it is a perfect seaside cocktail lounge.
