Why Mallorca?
Forget everything you think you know about Mallorca. Yes, there is the Ballermann — but it makes up less than 1% of the island. The remaining 99% are one of the most diverse and beautiful regions in Europe. Mallorca is the island that can do it all:
- UNESCO World Heritage Serra de Tramuntana — A 90 km long mountain range with peaks over 1,400 m, medieval dry stone walls, and hiking trails that are among the most beautiful in Europe. The GR 221 is Mallorca's top-class long-distance hiking trail.
- Over 200 beaches and coves — From kilometer-long sandy beaches like Es Trenc to turquoise rocky coves (Calas) on the east coast to hidden bathing spots only accessible by boat or on foot. Water quality: regularly among the top 3 in Spain.
- Palma — a world-class city — The island's capital combines Gothic architecture (the Cathedral La Seu is breathtaking), one of the best gastro scenes in Spain, trendy boutiques in the Santa Catalina district, and a vibrant art scene. Palma can easily compete with Barcelona or Valencia.
- Culinary excellence — 7 Michelin stars on a single island (as of 2025), including the legendary ZARANDA. Plus a burgeoning natural wine scene, centuries-old olive oil production, and the best Ensaimada in the world.
- Europe's cycling mecca — Over 20,000 cyclists train on Mallorca every spring. The combination of flat coastal roads, challenging mountain passes (Sa Calobra!), and mild winter climate is unique worldwide.
- Vibrant village tradition — Places like Valldemossa, Deia, Fornalutx (often called the most beautiful village in Spain), Pollença, and Arta preserve an authentic Mallorcan culture with weekly markets, fiestas, and crafts.
- Family-friendliness — Shallow sandy beaches in Alcudia and Can Picafort, water parks, caves to marvel at (Coves del Drac), short flight times from Germany (2h), and excellent tourist infrastructure make Mallorca the perfect family destination.
- Year-round destination — While other Mediterranean islands die out in winter, Mallorca continues to thrive: almond blossom in February, hiking season from October to May, Christmas markets in Palma, and the spectacular Semana Santa (Easter processions).
- Only 2 flight hours away — PMI is the most flown-to airport in Spain in summer. There are direct flights from practically every German airport, often starting at 30 euros.
- Cultural heritage — Talaiotic settlements from the Bronze Age, Arab gardens, Gothic churches, Chopin played in Valldemossa, Miro lived and painted here, and Archduke Ludwig Salvator documented the island like no other.
Mallorca is not Germany's 17th federal state — it is an independent, proud, Catalan-speaking Mediterranean island with a depth that only reveals itself when you leave the beach and head inland. And that is exactly the plan of this travel guide.