Relax In The Balearic Islands

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 46
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Mallorca is a traditional summer sun resort for the family, popular with tourists from all around Europe and the rest of the world, not least with Brits heading abroad for their holidays. They gather in Palma, the island''s largest city to the south west. However if you head off to the island and explore beyond the best known hotspots you will find that Mallorca offers so much more.

The largest of the Balearics, the island of Mallorca attracts so many people who come for its sunny beaches, its bars and restaurants, and the chance to relax it affords its visitors. The beaches in particular are its greatest draw, thanks to the 550 kilometres of coastline around the island.

Palma is a popular destination: the island''s capital, it is an old city full of architectural wonder, culture, and of course plenty of places to enjoy good food. Its famous cathedral is a huge attraction, whilst the rest of the city centre is a pleasant location and a perfect place to relax and stroll around. Official Mallorca tour guides will take you around interesting sites and areas such as the Jewish quarter of the town.

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... spots like these do however become very busy in the peak summer season. Therefore you may well want to get away from the crowds and go down the less-trodden paths away from the southern and eastern coasts. You''re sure to find quieter, gentler beaches elsewhere around the coast. The Dragon Caves are a great place to visit too, as is the stunning mountain range along the north western coast, the Serra de Tramuntana.

Beyond the confines of the main popular resorts there are a great many pursuits you can enjoy. The Serra de Tramuntana is a great place to go hiking, with trails that offer spectacular Mediterranean views. Meanwhile if you would like to go cycling, then the island''s roads fill up with cyclists in the warm months.

Rock climbers come to Mallorca to experience what is known as deep water soloing, climbing rocks above deep water. The island''s situation, fixed in the azure Mediterranean, means it is a great place for all kinds of water activities. You might even want to charter a yacht and go sailing around the coast; all of this and more is on offer in Mallorca.

For something a little more easygoing and carefree, the island offers a choice of 18-hole golf courses open to everyone. You can see a little more of the island''s rich natural beauty at places such as S''Abulfera, a large salt marsh near the town of Alcudia where many species of birds can be found. The cliffs of Fortmentor meanwhile also make a great spot to see the rare Elenora''s Falcon.

For a truly great holiday experience you will want to be able to get around and see what the island has to offer its visitors. Hiring a car is a great way to do this, so you can really make the most of your time in Mallorca. Bonny Kominek is a travel writer with over 15 years travel experience. They recommend Mallorca for a sunny, relaxing break and Ritmo Cars for car hire Mallorca and to hire car Formentera.