Mallorca, the Pearl of the Mediterranean
A land of olive trees, pine forests and steep cliffs, warm breezes and 300 days of sunshine a year. A sea of infinite shades of blue, idyllic beaches accesible only by boat. It offers history, art, gastronomy and dreamy hotels. The best of Mallorca lies in its hidden corners.
Once known as the island of calm, Mallorca hides majestic World Heritage mountains, lush pine forests, olive and orange groves, deep blue cliffs protecting solitary yachts at anchor and powder-white sandy beaches to rival the Maldives. The island is no more than 100 kilometres at its longest point, so even the most isolated and spectacular corners are accesible. The Cape of Formentor and Ca Calobra, for example, are recognised worldwide as two of the most spectacular landscapes in the whole of the Mediterranean.
Then there are charming villages such as Fornalutx, Deia and Pollença, which have preserved their rural flavour and the sense of serenity that has inspired and nurtured artists and creatives over the years; Chopin, Graves and Tapies all took refuge here.
Mallorca has a reputation as a cultured and artistic island and Palma, its capital, has become one of the most seductive cities in the Mediterranean. Its streets are pedestrianised, its old workshops now house art galleries, aristocratic palaces have been transformed into delightful boutique hotels, such as Hotel Sant Francesc. A few kilometres from Palma is Cap Rocat, a unique hotel in a medieval fort originally designed to protect the splendid bay of Palma from pirate attacks. Several of its suites are located in the old gunboat housings and open onto the infinite sea. In such places Mediterranean warmth and the sunny Spanish disposition is combined with a classic atmosphere and the uncluttered touch of modern design that is a Mallorcan hallmark. It is evident in opulent hotels such as the brand new Four Seasons Formentor and in the “grand dame” Belmond La Residencia, a truly extraordinary oasis whose walls date from the 14th century. Its olive tree gardens are memorable as are the local gastronomic specialities based on fresh, seasonal produce, rice dishes, olive oil and fish from lobster stew to ensaimadas, one of the most popular Spanish desserts.
While the interior of the island invites the visitor to discover its most secret corners, the true beauty of Mallorca is revealed only from the sea. Its spectacular, rugged coastline offers an unforgettable journey revealing deep caves, hidden coves, a kaleidoscope of blues and greens to rival any Caribbean island and a host of lively marinas.
