Can Phuket

Best beaches

Puro beach in Palma is best for hip Riviera-style lounging, about 20 minutes drive away. For quieter shores, find your own rocky cliff on the islets in the western part of Palma Bay.

Best walks

There are beautiful walks around the glamorous village of Deià. There are free walking tours around the old town of Alcúdia, where you'll be guided through the winding streets and told stories about the Moorish, Byzantine and Roman histories of this beautiful area. The local tourist office begins a tour every Wednesday at noon.

Shopping

Fleamarket lovers should visit Rastrillo on Avenida Gabriel Alomar I Villalonga, where a market is held on Saturday mornings, 08h–14h. Perlas Majorica, in Avenida Jaume III in Palma, has a fine selection of Mallorcan cultured pearls. Around the corner in Santa Maria on Sundays, there's an excellent local market again from 08h–14h with food delicacies from the island, flowers, clothes and accessories.

Activities

The imposing Gothic cathedral, Sa Seu, dominates Palma’s skyline. For modern-day eye candy, the Es Baluard museum, on Plaça Porta de Santa Catalina, has exhibitions showcasing works by Picasso and Dalí (www.esbaluard.org). The 10th-century Arab baths in Palma are a rare reminder of the Moorish period of Mallorca’s history. There’s no bathing these days, but you can see the underground chambers and relax in the flower-filled courtyard. Santa Maria is a pretty municipality, just 15 minutes from Palma’s nightlife and Inca’s shopping outlets and perfect for an afternoon’s exploring. Stroll through the historic centre to Casa de la Vila, the 17th-century town hall, or admire the baroque parish church, with its beautiful tiled campanile.

Restaurants

Bacchus

+34 971 140 262

This five-star hotel at the base of the Tramuntana Mountains boasts two enticing eateries. Bacchus restaurant serves up Michelin-starred, classic and contemporary cuisine in eccentric 16th-century surrounds. It’s the island's only restaurant to boast a chef’s table in the working kitchen.
Read's Hotel, Calle de Bernat de Santa Eugenia 41, Santa María del Camí, Mallorca

Bistro 33

+34 971 140 262

Read’s Hotel’s second eatery is a more informal affair. Sit in Bistro 33’s purple-walled 18th-century olive pressing room, surrounded by original pressing equipment and savour global flavours.
Read's Hotel, Calle de Bernat de Santa Eugenia 41, Santa María del Camí, Mallorca

Mandala

+34 971 615 285

This restaurant is a 25-minute drive from the hotel, set in a tiny rustic village surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It’s run by a wonderful bohemian French couple, who split their time between Asia and Mallorca. The food reflects this blend of East and West: expect delicious French cuisine with Asian influences. The shaded terrace is the perfect off-the-beaten-track location for a lazy afternoon.
Calle Nueva, 1, Orient 07349, Mallorca

Es Verger

+34 971 182 126

Eat in Alaro’s ruined castle, a 15-minute drive away, at this basic but belly-pleasing traditional restaurant, famous for its slow-cooked lamb plucked from huge olive wood fires and ovens. The steep hill leading up to the castle requires either a 4x4 or strong calf muscles and since opening times can vary greatly, it’s best to call in advance.
Cami de's Castell, Castell de Alaro, Alaro, Mallorca

For a full list of eating and drinking recommendations in Mallorca, Balearic Islands, check out our Mallorca, Balearic Islands restaurant guide

For a full list of recommended activities in Mallorca, Balearic Islands, check out our Mallorca, Balearic Islands destination guide

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