Mallorca is a beautiful island with endless beaches, blue skies, and warm weather. But as someone who has lived here for years, I know there’s so much more to discover beyond the typical tourist hotspots. From charming villages to ancient ruins and stunning mountains, Mallorca has a lot to offer for those who are willing to venture off the beaten path. Here are some of my top picks for exploring the hidden gems of Mallorca.
» Find out my 10 best beaches in Mallorca
Discover the Island’s History and Culture – Hidden Gems of Mallorca
Mallorca has a rich history dating back to the Roman era, and you can explore some of the island’s fascinating past by visiting its ancient ruins. One must-visit site is the Roman city of Pollentia, located just outside Alcudia. Here you can wander among the impressive remains of an ancient city, including a forum, a theater, and a temple.
» Going to Alcudia? Read the 5x best things to do there
For a taste of Mallorca’s traditional culture, head to one of its charming villages. Sóller, located in the northwest of the island, is a picturesque town with narrow streets and beautiful architecture. The town is also famous for its orange groves, so make sure to try some fresh orange juice while you’re there. Another village worth a visit is Valldemossa, located in the Tramuntana mountains. This idyllic town has been home to many famous artists and writers, including composer Frederic Chopin, who spent a winter here with his lover George Sand.
» Valldemossa is in our top 5 most beautiful villages, find out the other 4!
Explore the Natural Beauty of the Island | Hidden Gems of Mallorca
While Mallorca’s beaches are undoubtedly beautiful, there are also many other ways to enjoy the island’s stunning natural scenery. The Tramuntana mountains, which run along the northwest coast, offer fantastic hiking opportunities. The famous GR221 trail covers over 100 kilometers and takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the island, including pine forests, olive groves, and mountain peaks. Alternatively, you could explore the island’s coastline by taking a boat trip to the sea caves of Cuevas del Drach, located in the eastern part of the island. These caves are home to one of the largest underground lakes in the world, and you can take a boat ride on the lake while enjoying a classical music concert.
Taste the Island’s Delicious Cuisine – Hidden Gems of Mallorca
Mallorca‘s cuisine is a blend of Spanish, Mediterranean, and Moorish influences, and there are many delicious dishes to try. One of my personal favorites is the sobrassada, a cured sausage made from pork that’s seasoned with paprika. You can find it in most markets and supermarkets, and it’s best enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread. Another must-try dish is the pa amb oli, a simple but tasty snack made with bread, olive oil, and toppings such as tomato, cheese, and ham. Paella is also in my favorite and I’ve made it my mission to find the best unknown places.
Discover the great wines the island has to offer
Mallorca offers a wide range of beautiful wineries that are absolutely worth a visit. I’ve made it one of my favorite day activities; to visit a winery and get to know the local wines. They are absolutely amazing and we’ve written a guide for your about my favorite wineries and also where to stay.
While Mallorca’s wineries are a must-visit for any wine lover, the island has so much more to offer. The capital city of Palma is a bustling hub of culture, history, and entertainment, with something to offer for everyone. From the Gothic architecture of the stunning Palma Cathedral to the bustling local markets, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this vibrant city. If you’re planning to visit Mallorca, be sure to set aside some time to explore Palma and its many attractions. To learn more about what to do in Palma, check out our previous articles about Mallorca, where we’ve covered everything from the best beaches to the top restaurants (steak, paella, best rooftops) and nightlife spots.
In conclusion, while Mallorca’s beaches are undoubtedly beautiful, there is so much more to discover on this amazing island. By venturing off the beaten path and exploring its history, culture, and natural beauty, you can get a more authentic and rewarding travel experience. So next time you’re planning a trip to Mallorca, don’t just stick to the beaches – make sure to discover the hidden gems of this fantastic island.
DISCOVER ALL THE HOTSPOTS AND TRAVEL TIPS IN THE MALLORCA TRAVEL GUIDE
Are you planning a holiday to Mallorca? Of course you can book a nice boutique hotel, but a rural finca is often more in nature and quieter. Have you already heard about the finca hotels? Which is in my opinion the perfect option to go for on the island. There are also many romantic hotels to choose from. Read more of our travel tips here, or follow me along on @dutchbloggeronthemove.
Want to know more about the hidden gems of Mallorca? Read our most popular guides here:
- The 8x best steak restaurants in Mallorca: A local’s guide
- Top 7 Family friendly luxury beach clubs in Mallorca
- 10x Best Rooftop bars in Mallorca – A local’s guide
- The best bars in Palma de Mallorca
- Best restaurants in Andratx
