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The biggest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca means “the larger one” in Spanish. A glistening gem of a destination, Mallorca holds plenty of ubiquitous Mediterranean appeal. Golden crescent beaches adorn the coastline along the warm and gentle Balearic Sea. The mountainous north of the island is a maze of twisty roads punctuated by historic hilltop towns and panoramic coastal viewpoints, dropping down to hidden, crystal-clear coves.

While Mallorca can be busy, particularly in the summer, you can still find ways to explore the quieter aspects of the island. You might sample the island’s cuisine with wine and olive oil tastings or explore its history with artisan tours. You could try your hand at making sandals, head out on a boat trip, or take a bike tour around Palma, the vibrant main hub of Mallorca that serves as the capital of this archipelago.

Mallorca may have a reputation for its coastline of beaches and coves but explore inland and you’ll find an island with a rich heritage of artisanal rural produce. I particularly enjoyed the olive oil and wine tours here.

Spain specialist Eric

Things to see and do in Mallorca

Mallorcan vineyards

Mallorcan wines may not be as well-known as those from other regions of Spain, but there are a number of excellent wineries on the island. The oldest of these is Bodega Ribas, which was established in the 18th century and has been in the hands of the same family for the past 300 years — it’s currently run by the 10th generation. After a tour of the expansive vineyard and winery, you’ll be treated to a tapas-style lunch and wine tasting, offering an on-site insight into the complexities of the tasting notes.

The artistry of olive oil

The 500-year-old estate of Son Moragues is an oasis of calm compared to the bustling heat of Valldemossa, just a ten-minute walk away. Here, olive trees stretch as far as the eye can see, creeping down the mountainside and towards the sea. You’ll take a jeep tour around this vast grove, learning about the history of the area and how they cultivate their high-quality olives. Upon arriving at a sun-dappled pool, you’ll be treated to a picnic and have the opportunity to sample some fresh Son Moragues olive oil.

Sandal making workshop

Mallorca is a haven for artisans, and spending time creating a product under the tuition of a master craftsperson gives you a real sense of the intricacies of their trade. Just north of Palma, you can spend four hours with a local shoemaker learning how to create sandals.

After selecting your design and variety of leather, you’ll be fitted for the correct size. Next, your tutor will take you through the shoe-making process from start to finish, including how to cut your leather and use the tools to achieve a custom fit. At the end, you’ll construct your sandals ready to take home as a personal souvenir of your trip.

Mallorcan cookery class

In Palma, you can join a shared cooking class, which offers a hands-on opportunity to learn to cook a selection of classic Spanish dishes. You’ll follow a demonstration and be able to try your hand at making paella and a selection of other recipes, before sitting down to sample your dishes together with some local wine or beer.

Exploring hiking trails

Mallorca is known for its hiking trails, and one of our preferred walks leads from Es Mirador, near Sóller, to Cala Tuent. This route suits those with hiking experience and is best taken with a guide, who will ensure that navigation is easy and regale you with information along the trail. It winds its way through farmland and olive groves, before joining the coastal path. There are scenic views for the entire 13 km (eight miles), filling your four hours of walking with the sounds, sights, and scents of the mountains, rural villages, and seascapes.

Best time to visit Mallorca

Mallorca enjoys a Mediterranean climate, benefiting from mild winters and hot, dry summers. We recommend visiting in late spring (April to May) or early autumn (September to October), when the temperatures are pleasant, and the island is less busy. While March and November offer cooler, crowd-free alternatives. Some hotels on Mallorca close in January and February for annual renovations.