Fly from Nice to Palma de Mallorca

Most often, people come to Mallorca for its famous beaches. And they won’t be disappointed. The island offers mile after mile of immaculate sand, splendid coves surrounded by pine woods, and clear waters worthy of the Caribbean. However, the Balearic Islands have much more to offer holidaymakers than just these coastal wonders. The beaches alone do not explain the appeal of this part of the world for the vast majority of its visitors.

A trip to Mallorca is about much more than lounging under a parasol. Discover the secular monuments of its capital, Palma: the guildhall, for example, or the Royal Palace of La Almudaina. Venture along the coast to the Cap de Formentor lighthouse, which defies the Mediterranean from atop its cliff. Take in the stunning landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana, which is well worth visiting for its little villages, such as Estellencs, and its untamed landscapes. Hike with your family in the Natural Park, to marvel at its old mills and birds of prey. Spend time as a couple making romantic memories as you learn about George Sand and Frédéric Chopin, who spent two passionate, tender, creative months in the village of Valldemossa. Indulge in the simple pleasure of toasted bread rubbed with garlic and tomato. These are just a few of the countless wonderful experiences on offer...

• Sunbathe and swim. It would be a shame to come to Mallorca without making the most of some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches: Cala Major with its palm trees, Es Trenc, the coves of Cala Llombards, Cala Agulla and Caló des Moro.
• Gaze in wonder at La Seu, Palma’s cathedral, with its stained glass and immense rose window (the largest of its kind in a Gothic cathedral) capturing the sunlight magnificently.
• Discover Joan Miró’s studio. The great painter and sculptor spent part of his life on the island. The site is in its original state, with finished paintings and others that are barely sketches.
• Conquer Bellver Castle. Perching on a hill, 100 metres above the sea, this 14th-century castle boasts fabulous architecture and an equally stunning panorama of the Bay of Palma. In fact, Bellver is Catalan for “beautiful view”.
• Head down into the Caves of Drach (Cuevas del Drach) in the town of Manacor. These four large, interconnected caves share one of the largest underground lakes in Europe. A fascinating place!
• Visit Alcúdia, Mallorca’s oldest town. It is incredibly charming, with its lovely medieval houses and defensive walls. While you’re in the area, see the impressive ruins of the Roman city of Pollentia.
• Drive then walk to the Mirador Es Colomer and gaze out from this fantastic viewpoint over the Cap de Formentor, one of the most beautiful places on the island.
• Take the train! For over a century, the 27-kilometre Ferrocarril de Sóller has provided a connection between Palma and the village of Sóller. This little train resembles a San Francisco tram. It takes its passengers on a ride over viaducts, into tunnels, across plains filled with almond trees and through the Serra de Tramuntana.
• Taste the nectars of Mallorca on its wine route. 70 bodegas share the island’s vineyards, which boast two designations of origin: Binissalem and Pla i Llevant.
• Taste some local dishes in one of Mallorca’s famous “cellers”: restaurants in converted wine cellars. Make sure you try sobrassada de Mallorca, a sausage with protected designation of origin (DO), spiced with paprika.