Getting Around Majorca

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 46
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If you are planning a trip to Majorca, you may be pleased to know that there are some excellent diversions that can provide a nice counterpoint to more relaxed time on the beach. Majorca has been inhabited by humans for at least 6000 years, and the accumulated history of the island is preserved in sites across Majorca.

Majorca is the largest of the Spanish islands. Local culture is strong, with the local name of the island ''Majorca'', in contract to the mainland Castilian, and also Catalan spelling of ''Mallorca''. Happily, both are pronounced roughly the same, although some local Majorcans may tell you differently...

However you spell it, Majorca has a welcoming climate right through the summer months, lingering around the attractive mid-twenties between May and October.

Perhaps the most popular of these is Bellver Castle. This 14th Century castle is easily accessible - about 3km outside the capital, Palma de Majorca ? and has some great vantage points from which to view and photograph the bay of Palma. The castle has had several incarnations; as a seat of royalty, and latterly as a prison.

Bellver ...
... castle was originally built for King James II of Aragon, tactically situated as it is in a commanding position over the bay ? and is one of just a handful of circular castles in Europe. You can learn more about this in the Palma History museum, which is located within the castle.

Inside the town itself, the La Seu Cathedral is an equally impressive structure. This cathedral was founded by the first King James of Aragon in 1229, but you could say that it took a while to complete ? the building was only finished in 1601! La Seu is a great example of levantino Gothic architecture.

Outside the capital, other noted historic attractions include old Alcudia, a walled city built by the Romans, incorporating elements of Moorish style. The atmospheric winding alleyways and arches, as well as the market, make for some great holiday snaps.

The easiest way to get around all of these historic attractions is probably by car, and you''ll find local outfits like Ritmo Cars providing car hire in Majorca that is bookable online before you arrive for your holiday. Bonny Kominek loves the Balearic islands and has been going to Majorca for years. Getting car hire in Majorca is essential, you can get a cheap one from Ritmocars.co.uk