About Mallorca, Spain | SeeMallorca.com About Mallorca Which country are you based in? Europe Map view An Introduction & guide to Mallorca Imagine an island with turquoise-blue seas, secret coves, soft golden sands, lush green foliage, soaring rugged mountains, sleepy honey-stone villages, and a vibrant capital city. A place steeped in history, with a rich artisan and cultural scene, featuring gastronomic excellence. Well, this island’s name is Mallorca and, thanks to its many charms, more and more people are visiting all year round. So we thought we would share a bit more information about this enchanting destination. Mallorca really does have it all - glorious beaches and majestic mountains, a wealth of historical buildings and cultural experiences, a buzzing and cosmopolitan city, theme parks for all the family and all the shopping you could care to do whilst on holiday. Whether you want to visit one of the beautiful country houses, enter one of the remarkable caves, or chill out in a beach club, Mallorca has it. Each region in Mallorca has its own particular appeal - the northeast for history, the east coast for beaches and caves, the north and west for spectacular mountains and picture-postcard villages.

If you want to know about the real Mallorca, you should drive across Es Pla, the fertile plain at the centre of the island, with its almond groves, windmills and old market towns. Choosing where to stay depends on what you want to see and do, from the bustle of Palma, to the dreamy coastlines, or head inland for many luxury retreats where you can get away from it all. Of course, the island has also been well-known for its purpose built resorts and package holidays. Very popular they were too, but Mallorca has changed since their hey-day in the later part of the 20th century. Local town halls on Mallorca have invested time and energy into smartening up their resorts and making them a lot more family-friendly. Mallorca is now a destination where everyone can find their own spot. Is it Mallorca or Majorca? It's only the British (and their historical colonies) and the Irish who use the word 'Majorca'. To everyone else, it is Mallorca. 'Mallorca' comes from the Latin for 'larger island' - 'insula maior'. This is in reference to its smaller neighbour, Menorca, 'insula minor'.

As you see, no 'j' is mentioned, and this is because the letter 'j' didn't exist in Latin until around the 13th century, when it was introduced to take the place of 'i' when used as a consonant (as in 'maior'). The English language is based on several languages, one of which is Latin. Now, we're not Latin scholars, but it seems that English embraced the use of 'j' more than the Mediterranean countries. So, 'maior' became 'major' and hence Majorca. As Mallorca continued to belong to what became Spain in the years subsequent to the Catalan invasion, the Catalán version 'Mallorca' remained as the name used by the rest of the world. Beaches in Mallorca With over 500km of coastline, there are over 200 beaches to choose from on Mallorca. Many of the best beaches are backed by holiday resorts and have great facilities from shops and cafes, to sun loungers and watersports. Equally, there are vast stretches of beach, particularly in the south, where there has been no development and virgin calas with Caribbean-esque seas await you.

The east coast is filled with little sandy coves, ideal for sailing and snorkelling, while the west coast has a mixture of beaches and dramatic cliffs with stunning scenery. See Beaches in Mallorca Where is Mallorca? Mallorca is one of the Balearic Islands in the western Mediterranean, off the east coast of Spain. Its location means it is no more than a three-hour flight from northern Europe, making it easily accessible for those in search of a little piece of paradise. The easiest and quickest way to get to Mallorca is to fly. Palma de Mallorca airport is located in the south of the island and airlines fly from all over Europe throughout the year. You can also take a ferry (passenger or car ferry) from the Spanish mainland (Barcelona, Valencia) which will take around 7-8 hours. See Towns & Villages in Mallorca Events in Mallorca Being a Spanish island, Mallorca hosts many fiestas and festivals throughout the year. From agricultural fairs in the Spring and Autumn, to live music and DJ concerts in the summer, religious festivals and international sporting events, there is always plenty going on.

See Events Calendar for Mallorca Sights & Attractions in Mallorca A rich cultural history has left many remarkable sights to explore in Mallorca, with castles and ruins, cathedrals and monasteries, grand manor houses and gardens, along with a host of art galleries and museums. With its historic past, Mallorca has many wonderful buildings and its capital city, Palma , is the place to marvel at the impressive architecture, from medieval times through to Modernist creations. Palma is also home to the most varied nightlife, with top quality restaurants and a host of late night bars and clubs. See Sights in Mallorca Things to Do in Mallorca Yachts are a big thing in Mallorca. The island boasts many international sailing regattas’ each year and embodies numerous world class marinas and yacht charter companies all around the coast. Whether you are interested in a half-day boat trip or a week’s yacht charter, you will find the island more than equipped for your individual needs. The stunning scenery throughout Mallorca is ideal for enjoying outdoor pursuits. You can find protected Natural Parks in all four corners of Mallorca, as well as the rugged and beautiful Tramuntana mountains that run down the west coast.

Walking and hiking are popular activities with a wide variety of well-maintained paths and clear signage suitable for all abilities. Cycling is massive in Mallorca, it's a well-established destination for the professional road cycling teams during the off season and there are plenty of routes to choose from. The warm and dry climate is also perfect for golfers and there are around 20 golf courses throughout the island. For those with families, you can expect some great waterparks, adventure parks and petting farms. The resorts are particularly well geared up for the little ones, and remember to check for local festivals that the kids can get involved with. See Activities To Do in Mallorca Restaurants in Mallorca Mallorca has experienced a food revolution in the past 10 years. Many young Mallorcan chefs have come home after experiencing high-end international restaurants and have opened up their own places where they create fabulous modern Mediterranean dishes. There are half a dozen or so Michelin-starred restaurants featuring inventive cuisine in beautiful yet relaxed settings. Tapas are also a very popular option, and Palma is the place to head to experience the fresh, modern take on these small plates.

And don't forget to try the local Mallorcan wine, there are some really excellent vineyards on the island. See Restaurants in Mallorca Nightlife in Mallorca In the summer months, Mallorca comes to life with bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning. You will find there are late-night bars with DJ's in most towns and resorts or, for a quiet drink, the exclusive cocktail bars and wine bars in the ports should be explored. If you're someone who likes to start the evening off early from the comfort of a sunbed and a cocktail in hand, then Mallorca’s luxury beach clubs are the place to be. For the night owls out there who like to end their evening (or morning) at 05:00, the Paseo de Maritimo in Palma offers up the major nightclubs like Pacha. In the winter months, whilst the resorts and major clubs tend to shut down, the city of Palma continues to burst with life. This cosmopolitan city offers something for everyone with plenty of bars to visit, from a quiet night with a cocktail or gin and tonic to a crazy night out on the town with friends.

You see there is much more to Mallorca’s nightlife scene than the mischievous town of Magaluf! See Bars in Mallorca Where to Stay in Mallorca Mallorca is not only one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean, it's also one of the most diverse. Whether it’s a relaxing beach holiday with your family, a city break with your partner in crime or an outdoor adventure with your friends, there's something for each and every one of you. The choice of holiday accommodation is equally varied from boutique hotels and fincas to modern villas and apartments, there are quality options for a wide range of budgets. The north of Mallorca possesses family-friendly holiday resorts Alcudia, Pollença and Formentor. With their unspoilt historic towns and more than accommodating beach resorts, they provide the perfect setting for an impressive family holiday. Relaxing by the beach might be your thing? Or possibly kite surfing, wakeboarding or even cycling? Well, the north of the island has it all!

Don’t forget you can also stay in the more tranquil towns of Artá and Capdepera and stunning beach resorts like Cala Ratjada, all of which have their own fair share of things going on for youngsters and families in the summer months. The east and south-east coasts host a range of family holiday resorts like Cala d’Or, Porto Petro and Cala Millor, each of which are popular in their own way. This side of the island offers up some of the most beautiful beaches on the island where stretches of white sandy beaches meet the glistening turquoise waters. Some hot spots include the Caribbean-like waters at the beach of Es Trenc and the Cuevas del Drach (dragon caves) in Porto Cristo. At the other end of the spectrum, the west of Mallorca is famous for its dramatic scenery thanks to the Tramuntana mountain range and picture postcard towns like Valdemossa, Deià and Soller. The south-west of Mallorca is a mixed bag of prestigious ports (Puerto Portals, Port Adriano and Port d’Andratx) and cheap and cheerful package holiday favourites (Palma Nova, Santa Ponsa and Magaluf) within close proximity to each other.

Here you will also find the capital, Palma, a trendy city break destination thanks to its beautiful architecture, beaches, art galleries, good shopping, first-rate restaurants, and buzzing nightlife. It therefore comes as no surprise that this side of Mallorca caters for people of all ages from the young fashionistas all the way through to the older retired generations. For those who like to avoid the tourists and get a more authentic Mallorcan experience, you will find Mallorca’s inland towns might be more your thing. Perhaps try Sineu, Inca or Santa Maria del Camí. From here you can explore Mallorca’s finest vineyards, visit traditional village markets and fairs See Hotels in Mallorca Villas in Mallorca If renting a villa in Mallorca is more your thing, then you won't be disappointed. There are literally thousands of villas in Mallorca to choose from. The main area for villa rentals is in the north-west, around Pollença and Port de Pollença. This is a great area for family holidays, thanks to its lovely big beach, family activities and gentle nightlife.

See Villas in Mallorca Hotels in Mallorca Mallorca's hotels range from unique historic buildings that have been converted to provide every modern convenience, to beautifully charming fincas (converted farmhouses) in the countryside. Being so accessible for many wealthy Europeans means there is a big market for luxury accommodation in Mallorca, and the choice gets better and better each year. The capital city, Palma, has a wonderful range of small boutique hotels set in the old town, full of character and charm. See Hotels in Mallorca History & Culture in Mallorca The island has been inhabited by humans since 7000 BC. The Phoenicians, seafaring people from the Levant, were the first to colonise the island in around the 8th century BC and established numerous colonies. The island was occupied by Romans in 123 BC and flourished with the cultivation of olives, grapes (wine making) and salt mining. From the 700s, the island was increasingly attacked by Muslim invaders from North Africa. In 902, the Arabs conquered the Balearic Islands leading into the Moorish era. The Moors revamped Palma and it became known as Medina Mayurqa.

Medieval Mallorca was under the leadership of James I of Aragon (known as James the Conquerer). In 1229, he invaded and occupied the island under his Crown of Aragon and called it Regnum Majoricae. In 1230, the magnificent La Seu cathedral in Palma (one of Mallorca’s most significant heritage sites) started to be built and works continued for 400 years. More recently, renowned architect Antoni Gaudi has added to the masterpiece. In the 15th and 16th centuries, otherwise known as the Modern Era, the crown of Aragon was in dynastic union with Castile but Mallorca was under constant attack from the Barbary corsairs of North Africa, which is why so many watchtowers and fortified churches were built on the island. In the early 18th century, the War of the Spanish Succession resulted in the replacement of the dynastic union with a unified monarchy under the rule of the new Bourbon Dynasty. In 1716, Mallorca became how it is known today, as part of the Spanish Province of Baleares. The 20th century saw more disturbance in Mallorca.

At the start of the Spanish Civil War, there was a failed attempted invasion on the 16th August 1936 with the hope to drive the Nationalists from Mallorca and reclaim the island for the Republic. Since the 1950s, Mallorca has turned into a holiday destination for foreign visitors with more and more tourists coming from England, Germany, Sweden and Italy. They come not only for the warmer climes and beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery but the historical architecture from the Romans right up until the modern Gaudi influence. Whilst there are art galleries aplenty on the island, one of the most important visits is, Joan Miro’s studio. Joan Miro is Mallorca’s most celebrated artist, who grew up and resided on the island. Today his studio is open to the public in Palma where people can view his works. Other artists and writers have been coming to the island for decades, Robert Graves, one of England’s greatest poets, resided (and was buried) in the quaint mountain village of Deià, which has since become a popular destination for the rich and famous.

Majorca - Useful information about the Balearic island of Majorca Blog Information about Majorca Mallorca is a very beautiful island. Some people call it Majorca but the island's local name is Mallorca The Mallorca Island Mallorca is a very beautiful island. Some people call it Majorca but the island’s local name is Mallorca. For many years, the island has been home to many famous and prominent personalities like Boris Becker, Claudia Schiffer, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Jeffrey Archer, Raphael Nadal, the King of Spain and many more. Some have homes within the island while others have had lived here at some point in time. Having been a choice for many rich Europeans, Mallorca has formed a large market for luxurious accommodation. The options have increased and improved over time and this has been the trend every year. There is a wide variety of hotels in Mallorca. For instance, some hotel buildings are historic but they have been modified to provide guests with state of the art convenience. There are also beautiful converted farmhouses dubbed fincas within the countryside. Villas are very plenty so if you wished to rent one you wouldn’t have trouble getting a good choice. Holiday resorts have taken over some of Mallorca’s coastline.

If you don’t like parties and mingling with crowds, you can easily avoid them since the resorts are all self-contained. Towards the south of the island, the beach stretches vastly and no development has been done yet in the area. There are more than 200 unexploited beaches you can explore to get a spot that is suitable for you. Sailing is a very popular in the island. Mallorca hosts several regatta at international level every year. There are quite many high class yatch charter companies and marinas all over the coast. Boat trips are also available for half-day or one day at many locations within the island. The island has many amazing historic buildings. Palma, the capital city has remarkable architecture both ancient and modern designs. The capital harbors a wide variety of entertainment spots including high class hotels, night clubs and discos. Mallorca is rich in cultural history with many sites one would love to explore. They include cathedrals, monasteries, ruins, grand mansion houses, castles, museums, archives and art galleries. There are also adventure parks, petting farms and water parks suitable for families. The resorts can accommodate families comfortably and they also offer festivals that can involve children.

The scenery in the island is spectacular and is perfect for you to enjoy outdoors. The west coast of Mallorca has the jugged and beautiful Tramuntana Mountains. Cycling is a very popular activity here. It is well established and many professional cyclers participate during the off season and there is a large number of routes you can select from. The four corners of the island host protected national parks that you can pay a visit. The island is naturally well organized with particular attraction sites set at specific regions. History is to the Northeast, caves and beaches are found in the East coast and mountains and villages are found towards the North and the West. Mallorca is a very beautiful island. To understand the island as the locals know it, you may drive along the plain center of the island. There you will see almond orchards, windmills, old towns and markets. Your choice for where you would like to visit depends on what you look forward to do or see. Mallorca is accessible from many regions of Europe in just a few hours flight. The island’s good climate and beauty make it a great choice perennially. Mallorca Island is the place to be. Pay a visit and get a breathtaking experience that you will never forget.

It’s awesome! It is Mallorca not Majorca. It is interesting to note that the island has the two names mentioned above. Research has revealed that the native name for the island is Mallorca. That is the correct name. In fact the name Majorca is used by the British and Irish only. Some people have a feeling that the name Majorca was coined by the Catalan following the 13th century invasions by the Catalans. This is incorrect as it has been confirmed that Catalans know the island as Mallorca. If you consult Wikipedia, you will find that the name Mallorca means the larger island. Yes, larger compared to Menorca, a smaller neighboring island. English is a blend of several languages including Latin so the variation is understandable. In this section... Car Hire Majorca Airport - Blog Car Hire Majorca Airport Top 10 Spanish Foods to try Posted on: July 29th, 2016 by admin No Comments Each region offers unique cuisine that is worth exploring. Learning is a continuous process, so if you would like to advance your culinary skills, it is advisable to borrow from different communities. The Spanish communities have some of the best recipes that you can learn from to improve your culinary skills.

Below are ten Spanish foods you can easily learn how to prepare with simple ingredients. 1. Pulpo a la Gallega Also referred to as the Galician octopus, Pulpo a la Gallega is a signature dish in the Spanish culture that dates back to 125 years during a time when Spain had many cattle fairs. The food is made from steaming octopus meat and is cooked with olive oil mixed with paprika. The Pulpo a la Gallega is a typical dish and is among top dishes that the Spanish people identify with, not forgetting it holds historical significance. 2. Gazpacho The Gazpacho is a famous soup prepared in various colours. Traditionally, the soup was prepared during the summer season and has since become a great delicacy especially among visitors, who find it refreshing and delicious. The soup is prepared using tomatoes, cucumber, olive oil, stale bread, garlic pepper, onion and salt. All the ingredients are mixed together and fried in moderate fire before preparing the thick delicious soup. 3. Croquettes Almost every restaurant in Spain offers Croquettes.

The Croquettes are made unique and the taste depends on the specifications of individual hotel, so you will find them different from one hotel to another. Generally, the food is tasty and there are not many variations from one restaurant to another because they share the main ingredients. 4. Jamon You can also enjoy some pieces of Jamon from any bar in Spain. The Spanish jamon is prepared using traditional techniques and the ham is labelled depending on the breed of the pig it was sourced from. The ham is dried and cured then prepared to offer tasty pieces. 5. Spanish ratatouille Vegetarians will also have something to pick from the Spanish people. The Spanish ratatouille is made from tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and eggs. The flavour availed by this delicious combinations are unique and something you can try at home if you have the ingredients. 6. Bean stew Spain is home to different beans and legumes species. Different regions produce different kinds of beans, so you can have a taste of what each place you visit has to offer. The beans varieties available in Spain are unique and the preparation is also perfectly executed. 7. Paella The rice based dish is recognized internationally and is available in many variations that are worth exploring.

The traditional version of Paella is prepared from a mixture of chicken or rabbit meat – sometimes both – greens beans and some vegetables. 8. Fried milk This is not a common dish, but you may easily find it in major restaurants. It’s one of the unique dishes that will make you like everything about the Spanish people. 9. Robo de Toro This is an Andalusian stew that originated in the 16th century Cordoba. It is made from bull/ox tail and other sophisticated ingredients to make it delicious. 10. Arroz Negro This is one of the best prepared rice dishes in Spain. Most visitors would barely notice any of the ingredients used and this explains the reason it is among top choices among those who have been to Spain before. Cala Varques This beach is easily reachable by boat or foot and offers many water activities to adults and children. Cala Varques is in fact one of the most unspoilt beaches in Spain. It is the perfect snorkelling spot that provides a clear view of the Mediterranean. Perhaps the best time of the year for snorkelling here is early autumn when the water is calmer and there are fewer people about.

Puerto Pollensa On the north-east of Majorca Island lies Puerto Pollensa, known as one of the most picturesque beaches. It is located in the curving bay of Tramunta and is ideal for families who love underwater activities. As this beach enjoys calm and clear waters, it is perfect for those who wish to learn how to snorkel. With stunning scenery, this is the place to visit with your family. Cala Agulla Cala Agulla is close to many major hotels and one of the most popular beaches for diving. The crystal clear waters offer divers diverse opportunities for exploring Aqua life. This beach is surrounded by tall pine trees and local mountains, but it can get overcrowded during the summer months. Arenal Playa de Palma Arenal Playa de Palma is a white sandy beach with shallow waters. It’s a wonderful resort for underwater exploring and is known for offering all-year-round diving opportunities. Taking a plunge into the deep blue waters is even more fun than before thanks to the brand new diving platform in place. Cala Barca This pretty but small beach is on the edge of Mondrago Park in Majorca. It is only 25 metres deep with golden sands and amazing scenery.

Although the beach itself is small, it can still get overcrowded in peak season. Every year, thousands of snorkellers come to Cala Barca for a spot of underwater exploration. If you are an experienced diver, this is the beach for you, but as there is no lifeguard service, you should exercise caution. Unlike some of the other bays in the area, Cala Barca is developed for tourists and offers a scuba diving centre. Mallorca is a perfect holiday destination and the wide variety of available beaches makes it easy to find a favourite beach close to holiday accommodations, whether you prefer sandy beaches, pebbles or rocks. Check out our listings of some of the best Mallorca beaches before you head off on holiday: 1. Es Trenc The Es Trenc beach is one of the most popular in Mallorca, offering an expanse of shimmering white sand that’s perfect for play and relaxation. Es Trenc is located a short drive from the village of Campos in the south of the island. 2.

Platja de Muro The Blue Flag beach of Platja de Muro is situated between Alcudia and C’an Picafort and is a perfect beach for kids to play in the sand or sea, as its shallow waters stretch quite a way, due to the sandy shelving. 3. Port d’Alcudia The beach of Port d’Alcudia was nominated as one of the world’s best beaches in 2012 and features expanses of clean sand and a gentle tidal current, making it ideal for families, swimmers and divers. 4. Cala Mesquida The beach at Cala Mesquida is popular for surfing as waves are much bigger in this location. The beach is surrounded by sand dunes and situated in the north-east of the island. 5. Puerto Pollensa The Puerto Pollensa beach is around 6km distance from the town of the same name and immensely popular with holidaymakers and tourists. The scenic mountains surrounding the beach and azure waters of the ocean give it a fairytale appearance that’s sure to be a hit with anybody. 6.

Cala Formentor The playa at Cala Formentor is over 1km in length, however, it’s only about 8m in width, so there’s not a good deal of room for lounging at the height of the season. The crystal clear sea water in this area makes it a wonderful place for swimming and snorkelling. 7. Cala Mondrago The snorkelling fraternity in Mallorca appreciate all the benefits of swimming from the rocks at popular Cala Mondrago beach. There is a sandy beach for relaxing and playing, too. So this beach offers everything for a perfect day out. It’s located close to Cala d’or and can be accessed by train, bus or car. 8. Cala Agulla The golden sands of Cala Agulla beach make it a perfect spot for relaxation and play. The beach is located in the north-east of the island, close to Capdepera. Well known for its glorious weather, fabulous beaches, vibrant night life and varied history, Mallorca is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. However, there are many intriguing facts about Mallorca that many people are unaware of.

1.) Mallorca is the largest island in Spain, so it comes as no surprise that its original name derived from the Latin term ‘insula maior’, which translates to ‘larger island’. Over the years the name has gradually changed to Mallorca, incorporating the Castellano ‘ll’ pronunciation. 2.) Mallorca’s history is fascinating. The first recorded settlement dates back to 3000 BC, but ancient burial sites have been unearthed that date back to 6000 BC. The island was invaded by the Romans in 123 BC and was subsequently conquered by the Byzantines, the Moors and King James I of Aragon. Because of this varied history, the architecture and ancient ruins found on the island are very diverse. 3.) Although Mallorca has a population of around 900,000 inhabitants, almost half of these people live in the capital city of Palma. 4.) Mallorca has two large mountain ranges: Serra de Tramuntana and Serres de Llevant. Serra de Tramuntana has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status and its highest mountain, Puig Major, is the highest mountain in the entire Balearic region.

5.) It is estimated that over 6,000,000 visitors travel to Mallorca each year. However, it isn’t just holiday-makers who travel to this stunning island. Boasting a varied terrain and over 400km of hiking trails, hikers and cyclists visit Mallorca in vast numbers. In fact, recent figures suggested that over 35,000 cyclists visit Mallorca each year, including both professional and recreational cyclists. 6.) The island’s most spectacular and most visited tourist attraction is La Seu, a huge cathedral that dates back to 1230. A great deal of restoration has been completed over the centuries and recent additions have been created by famous architect Antoni Gaudi. 7.) Mallorca boasts a wonderful collection of cave systems, including Coves del Drach which can be found on the east side of the island. Visitors travel from all over to see the impressive underground lakes, stalagmites and stalactites. 8.) With a glorious Mediterranean climate and average temperatures of 21°c, Mallorca boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a year-round destination for holiday-makers seeking sun, sea and sand.

9.) There are more than 3,000 restaurants on the island of Mallorca so visitors can indulge themselves on traditional Spanish cuisine, freshly caught seafood and international dishes from all over the world. 10.) Mallorca’s largest nightclub, BCM, boasts the biggest foam machine in the world and is a great place to go to dance the night away and enjoy water, foam and popcorn parties. Historic Buildings of Palma de Majorca The beautiful capital city of Majorca, Palma de Majorca, overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is home to a wonderful collection of spectacular buildings that boast some of the most astounding architecture in Europe.The city’s landmark is the magnificent La Seu, a Gothic cathedral located in the old quarter. The foundation stone was laid in 1230 by King James I of Aragon and work continued for the next 400 years. Following an earthquake, work was resumed in 1851 and as a result, the building has features from many different periods of history. In 1909, a wrought-iron candelabra, designed by the famous architect Gaudi, was erected over the main altar.

It is also home to one of the world’s largest stained glass windows that was made from 1,236 pieces of glass and measures an impressive 12m across. Dedicated to San Sebastian, Palma’s patron saint, this masterpiece is a sight not to be missed. Opposite the cathedral stands the immense Almudaina Palace. Built in the thirteenth-century, it was originally an Arab fortress and housed members of the Spanish Royal Family throughout the fourteenth-century. Elements of Islamic architecture can still be found with its Moorish arches, but it was later converted to demonstrate Gothic architecture. Surrounded by the stunning S’Hort des Rei gardens, exploring the grounds is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon. Built in 1309, Bellver Castle is situated on top of a hill and offers some of the most outstanding panoramic views of the city below. The unique structure is entirely circular and features both Moorish and Romanesque features. For many centuries it was used as a prison, but now houses the city’s History Museum where Roman, Spanish and Arab artefacts can be found.

The Arab Baths, located in the mediaeval quarter, is all that remains of the Moorish city of Medina Mayurqa, which was what Palma was once known as. Dating back to the tenth-century, this ancient building features a domed room that was once used for relaxation purposes. Spend an afternoon exploring the grounds and be sure to visit the courtyard for a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of hectic city life. For more modern architecture, visit the old Gran Hotel. Opened in 1903, this breathtaking building is now home to the city’s most popular art gallery and many different exhibitions can be found here throughout the year. The sculptured façade, the intricate tiling, the ornate iron railings and the huge stone carvings make this building a wonder to behold. Fishing Holiday to Majorca Even though the Balearic Islands are hugely popular with holidaymakers who enjoy beach and sun, fishing is an activity that has been attracting enthusiast from the UK and other countries for many years, and for good reason. The region has a rocky bottom that has an abundance of fauna which creates an ideal environment for a wide variety of marine life.

Majorca has a terrific coastline, and here, there is the archipelago of Cabrera, which is a national park. The seabed in this area has been unaltered by the rigours of the modern world and in the water can be found scorpion fish, morays and congers along with sea bass and lots of other species. The south-east of the island is particularly amenable for fishing, as, in less than 20 minutes, a boat can take you out onto the high seas, which is only about a six-mile journey. Deep sea fishing activity and trolling have a season, which begins in May. This is the time when there are enormous amounts of fish that can be caught in these waters. Fish like, the bluefin tuna, swordfish, albacore, and dolphin-fish. The bluefin tuna swim off the coast of Ibiza, pass through the Gulf of Valencia and spawn off the coastal waters of the Balearic Islands.

Between the months of May and August, the south side of the island sees an abundance of albacore that are prevalent in the famous region “Ses Mamelles.” At the end of July, these fish have moved off and can be fished for off the beautiful coast of Menorca. The summer months are perfect for fishing in the sea off Majorca, and the weather is ideal, to ensure that every day can be spent on the water. The months of August and September are perfect for catching swordfish and the giant blue tuna, with swordfish catches being as big as 300kg. Chumming for the big fish has in the past been very successful in zones such as Cabo Formentera, Porto Cristo and east of Porto Colom. Autumn makes it possible to do some spinning and trolling with the main catch being small tuna and the dolphin-fish. Dolphin –fish can grow up to 10 kg, but an average size is around five kg. In this part of the world, there is fishing all of the year around, and anglers can practice their bottom and jigging fishing in the winter. With bottom fishing, it’s possible to catch, red scorpion and scorpion fish.

The most beautiful places in the Balearic Islands The Balearic Islands are a glorious Mediterranean archipelago nestled in the Balearic Sea, off the coast of eastern Spain. If you want to avoid the usual tourist haunts and see some jaw-droppingly beautiful places, you are going to be spoiled for choice!Mallorca Pretty villages include Sóller, nestled within a lush green valley and majestic mountains, and Fornalutx with steep winding street, both perfect for hiking. For artistic inspiration, visit the charming village of Valldemossa where crumbling houses, a palace and a monastery are surrounded by romantic forests. Bellver Castle is a 14th century gothic castle on the outskirts of Palma. If hidden coves are more your thing, head to Sa Calobra beach for a lovely trek through a shaded gorge, underground tunnels and Torrent de Pareis (‘twin streams’). You can catch a boat across an underground lake in the Caves of Drach and admire stalactites and stalagmites in the Caves of Artà. For panoramic views, head to Cape Formentor which has a peak 384 metres above sea level and unspoilt, picture postcard beaches.

Another beautiful beach can be found at Playa de Es Trenc; a two mile stretch of golden sand where the local speciality is freshly caught red shrimp.Menorca One of the most photographed places in Menorca is Cala Turqueta, a beautiful cove with crystal clear waters. For history enthusiasts, Naveta des Tudons is a majestic Bronze Age monument best viewed at dusk. Favaritx Lighthouse, in the S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park offers a charming perspective for wildlife watching. Ibiza Nestled in the hills of Ibiza’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Dalt Vila with medieval battlements, white washed buildings and a stunning cathedral. Just ten minutes away is Las Salinas Beach, a park of outstanding natural beauty with salt lakes and a wildlife conservation area. For lovely views of a nearby uninhabited island head to Cala d’Hort and relax by the towering white cliffs. Formentera Regularly making it onto ‘best beaches in the world’ listicles, Playa de Ses Illetes is the perfect place to get away from it all.

For one of the most stunning sunset views on the island, head to Barbaria Lighthouse – if you climb to the top you can see Ibiza. You could also take a boat trip around the tiny island of Espalmador, just 50 metres offshore and paddle in the sea off Playa S’Alga. Island - definition of island by The Free Dictionary Island - definition of island by The Free Dictionary (ī′lənd) n. 1. Abbr. Isl. or Is. or I. A landmass, especially one smaller than a continent, entirely surrounded by water. 2. Something resembling an island, especially in being isolated or surrounded, as: a. An unattached kitchen counter providing easy access from all sides. b. A raised curbed area, often used to delineate rows of parking spaces or lanes of traffic. c. The superstructure of a ship, especially an aircraft carrier. 3. Anatomy A cluster of cells differing in structure or function from the cells constituting the surrounding tissue. tr.v. is·land·ed, is·land·ing, is·lands To make into or as if into an island; insulate: a secluded mansion, islanded by shrubbery and fences.

[Alteration (influenced by isle ) of Middle English ilond, from Old English īegland : īg, īeg; see akw-ā- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots + land, land; see lendh- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] Word History: It may seem hard to believe, but Latin aqua, "water," is related to island, which originally meant "watery land." Aqua comes almost unchanged from Indo-European *akwā-, "water." *Akwā- became *ahwō- in Germanic by Grimm's Law and other sound changes. To this was built the adjective *ahwjō-, "watery." This then became *awwjō- or *auwi-, which in pre-English became *ēaj-, and finally ēg or īeg in Old English. Island, spelled iland, first appears in Old English in King Alfred's translation of Boethius about ad 888; the spellings igland and ealond appear in contemporary documents. The s in island is due to a mistaken etymology, confusing the etymologically correct English iland with French isle.

Isle comes ultimately from Latin īnsula "island," a component of paenīnsula, "almost-island," whence our peninsula. island (ˈaɪlənd) n 1.

(Physical Geography) a mass of land that is surrounded by water and is smaller than a continent adjective insular Islands and island groups Achill, Admiralty, Aegean, Aegina, Alcatraz, Aldabra, Alderney, Aleutian, Alexander, Amboina, Andaman, Andaman and Nicobar, Andreanof, Andros, Anglesey, Anguilla, Anticosti, Antigua, Antilles, Antipodes, Aran, Arran, Aru or Arru, Aruba, Ascension, Auckland, Azores, Baffin, Bahamas, Balearic, Bali, Banaba, Bangka, Banks, Baranof, Barbados, Barbuda, Bardsey, Barra, Basilan, Basse-Terre, Batan, Belau, Belle, Benbecula, Bermuda, Biak, Billiton, Bioko, Bohol, Bonaire, Bonin, Bora Bora, Borneo, Bornholm, Bougainville, British, Bute, Butung, Caicos, Caldy, Calf of Man, Campobello, Canary, Canna, Canvey, Cape Breton, Capri, Caroline, Cayman

, Cebú, Ceylon, Channel, Chatham, Cheju, Chichagof, Chiloé, Chios, Choiseul, Christmas, Cocos, Coll, Colonsay, Coney, Cook, Corfu, Corregidor, Corsica, Crete, Cuba, Curaçao, Cyclades, Cyprus, Cythera, Delos, D'Entrecasteaux, Diomede, Disko, Diu, Djerba or Jerba, Dodecanese, Dominica, Dry Tortugas, Easter, Eigg, Elba, Ellesmere, Espíritu Santo, Euboea, Faeroes, Faial or Fayal, Fair, Falkland, Falster, Farquhar, Fernando de Noronha, Fiji, Flannan, Flinders, Flores, Florida Keys, Foula, Foulness, Franz Josef Land, French West Indies, Frisian, Fyn, Galápagos, Gambier, Gigha, Gilbert, Gotland, Gothland, or Gottland, Grand Bahama, Grand Canary, Grande-Terre, Grand Manan, Greater Antilles, Greater Sunda, Greenland, Grenada,

 Grenadines, Guadalcanal, Guam, Guernsey, Hainan or Hainan Tao, Handa, Hawaii, Hayling, Heard and McDonald, Hebrides, Heimaey, Heligoland, Herm, Hispaniola, Hokkaido, Holy, Hong Kong, Honshu, Hormuz or Ormuz, Howland, Ibiza, Icaria, Iceland, Imbros, Iona, Ionian, Ireland, Ischia, Islay, Isle Royale, Ithaca, Iwo Jima, Jamaica, Jan Mayen, Java, Jersey, Jolo, Juan Fernández, Jura, Kangaroo, Kauai, Keos, Kerrera, Kiritimati, Kodiak, Kos or Cos, Kosrae, Krakatoa or Krakatau, Kuril or Kurile, Kyushu or Kiushu, La Palma, Labuan, Lakshadweep, Lampedusa, Lanai, Lavongai, Leeward, Lemnos, Lesbos, Lesser Antilles, Levkás, Leukas, or Leucas, Lewis with Harris or Lewis and Harris, Leyte, Liberty, Lindisfarne, Line, Lip

ari, Lismore, Lolland or Laaland, Lombok, Long, Longa, Lord Howe, Luing, Lundy, Luzon, Mackinac, Macquarie, Madagascar, Madeira, Madura, Maewo, Mahé, Mainland, Majorca, Maldives, Malé, Malta, Man, Manhattan, Manitoulin, Marajó, Margarita, Marie Galante, Marinduque, Marquesas, Marshall, Martinique, Masbate, Mascarene, Matsu or Mazu, Maui, Mauritius, May, Mayotte, Melanesia, Melos, Melville, Mersea, Micronesia, Mindanao, Mindoro, Minorca, Miquelon, Molokai, Moluccas, Montserrat, Mount Desert, Muck, Mull, Mykonos, Nantucket, Nauru, Naxos, Negros, Netherlands Antilles, Nevis, New Britain, New Caledonia, Newfoundland, New Georgia, New Guinea, New Ireland, New Providence, New Siberian, Nicobar, Niue, Norfolk, North, North Uist, Nusa Tenggara, Oahu, Oceania,

 Okinawa, Orkneys or Orkney, Palawan, Palmyra, Panay, Pantelleria, Páros, Patmos, Pelagian, Pemba, Penang, Pescadores, Philae, Philippines, Phoenix, Pitcairn, Polynesia, Ponape, Pribilof, Prince Edward, Prince of Wales, Principe, Qeshm or Qishm, Queen Charlotte, Queen Elizabeth, Quemoy, Raasay, Ramsey, Rarotonga, Rathlin, Réunion, Rhodes, Rhum, Rialto, Roanoke, Robben, Rockall, Rona, Ross, Ryukyu, Saba, Safety, Saipan, Sakhalin, Salamis, Saltee, Samar, Samoa, Samos, Samothrace, San Cristóbal, San Juan, San Salvador, Santa Catalina, Sao Miguel, Sao Tomé, Sardinia, Sark, Savaii, Scalpay, Schouten, Scilly, Sea, Seil, Seram or Ceram, Seychelles, Sheppey, Shetland, Sicily, Singapore, Sjælland, Skikoku, Sk

okholm, Skomer, Skye, Skyros or Scyros, Society, Socotra, South, Southampton, South Georgia, South Orkney, South Shetland, South Uist, Spitsbergen, Sporades, Sri Lanka, St.

Croix, St. Helena, St. John, St. Kilda, St. Kitts or St. Christopher, St. Lucia, St. Martin, St. Tudwal's, St.

Vincent, Staffa, Staten, Stewart, Stroma, Stromboli, Sulawesi, Sumatra, Sumba or Soemba, Sumbawa or Soembawa, Summer, Sunda or Soenda, Tahiti, Taiwan, Tasmania, Tenedos, Tenerife, Terceira, Thanet, Thásos, Thera, Thousand, Thursday, Timor, Tiree, Tobago, Tokelau, Tombo, Tonga, Tortola, Tortuga, Trinidad, Tristan da Cunha, Trobriand, Truk, Tsushima, Tuamotu, Tubuai, Turks, Tutuila, Tuvalu, Ulva, Unimak, Upolu, Ushant, Vancouver, Vanua Levu, Vanuatu, Vestmannaeyjar, Victoria, Virgin, Visayan, Viti Levu, Volcano, Walcheren, Walney, West Indies, Western, Wight, Windward, Wrangel, Yap, Youth, Zante, Zanzibar Translations on holidays to Majorca - Costa del Sol News Costa del Sol News Mirco Rehmeier spain Leave a comment The glistening island of Majorca beckons from

 the Mediterranean Sea.

Part of the Balearic Islands, its name translates to “the larger one” in comparison to Minorca, another island in the chain whose name means “the smaller one.” There is a lot of natural beauty to be explored in Majorca beyond its crowded beaches and the touristy night clubs at Palma Nova or Magaluf. While the 14th century Gothic cathedral of San Sebastian is the main landmark, every quiet corner has a religious structure. Majorca Main Attractions: Valldemossa This town is nestled amidst the Tramuntana mountains to the west of Majorca. There are guided and self-led hiking trails through lush vineyards, leading to a 13th century Spanish monastery inhabited at one time by the famous music composer Chopin. Further up, the trail follows the olive trees and goes off the main road, uphill to Deia. This is a peaceful seaside village containing the early 18th century Trinidad Hermitage. Deia borders on Llucalcari, where access is difficult but worth the effort, since it has perfect swimming spots amidst isolated coves and a shore lined with pine trees. Other activities in Valldemossa include cycling trails, horse rides and rock climbs.

All the stone houses have a ceramic plate at the main entrance invoking the blessings of their patron saint La Beata. Orient Far from the beaches lies the village of Orient, hidden in the valley by three mountains; Puig Major, Puig d’Alaro and Serra d’Alfabia to its north, south and west respectively. The narrow road from Buyola with hair-pin bends will get the adrenaline pumping. The safer alternative is the approach from Alaro. A hike up to the 18th century hilltop church in honor of St. George offers a stunning view of the greenery dotted by the 20-odd honey-colored houses. There are only 3 restaurants catering to tourists. The Alfabia manor house with its exotic gardens filled with pavilions and fountains lies nearby. Additional Info: Cap de Formentor, the northern end of Majorca, lies close to Port de Pollenca. With cliffs 400 meters above sea level, white pines growing from rock formations and goats ambling about, it is immediately apparent why this is one of the most-visited spots in Majorca. The bright blue of the sea is a pleasant contrast to the yellowish rock.

There is a lighthouse that looks out onto Minorca. To get good views, go early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Cuevas del Drach or Dragon Caves are another attraction hounded by tourists, but they are too beautiful to be missed while on cheap holidays to Majorca . They are found near the fishing town of Porto Cristo along the island’s east coast. These caves are filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Deep inside a cavern, Lago de Martel is the largest underground lake in the world. An amphitheater is built around it, where a unique performance of classical music takes place; from the darkness, a few illuminated gondolas gently float on the lake, while musicians on board enthrall visitors with brilliant acoustics. The crowds thin out later in the day. Catalan and Spanish are the two main languages, while English is also spoken across the island. The local time here is 1 hour ahead of GMT. Son San Joan airport just outside Palma ranks 3rd in Spain in terms of size and is one of the busiest in Europe in the summer.

There is public transportation around the island and guided excursions are also available, but the best way to see Majorca at your own pace is to rent a car and drive around. Majorca is blessed with a typical Mediterranean climate. The summer months from June to August are sunny with an average temp of 25 C. This is the peak tourist season; hotels are fully booked and prices skyrocket everywhere. The mild winters last from December to February, averaging at 12 C. October to November is the best time to visit Majorca to beat the crowds; accommodation options are plenty at this time of the year. Related posts: Timeshare Majorca – Buy & Sell Timeshare Resales in Majorca Buy and Sell Timeshare in Majorca Above: Galliner Son Marroig, Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain Timeshare Resales in Majorca The largest of the Balearic Islands close to Spain, Majorca is sometimes called Mallorca. The name literally means, “The larger one”, in contrast to the smaller islands in the archipelago of Minorca and Ibiza. An extremely popular timeshare holiday destination, there are over 150 flights to Majorca from London each week.

With a flying time of just over 2 hours from Gatwick or Heathrow, you could be enjoying Majorca’s sunny beaches and aquamarine seas from your very own timeshare resale in next to no time! About Majorca Arriving in Palma, the capital city, the skyline is dominated by the beauty of the main cathedral - ‘La Seu’ and the remnants of cobbled streets and ancient city walls. Today, Palma is a busy port and bustling modern city with old-world charm and friendly locals. Centrally located for some of the top resorts in the surrounding areas, a visit to Palma makes for a fantastic day trip away from the beach. Beaches in Majorca are exceptionally clean, offer every possible combination of water activity and most have easy access to excellent bistros and casual eateries along the beachfront. Hidden beaches like Cala Varques are not easily accessible, but well worth the hike over the rocks to enjoy utter peace and tranquillity. Despite its reputation as a popular beach destination for timeshare holidays, Majorca offers spectacular natural features including the natural springs of Ses Fontes Ufanes, the Drach Caves and the Albufera National Park.

If you get the opportunity, visit the nature reserve on Dragonera Island, just off the south west coast of Majorca. The island plays host to a number of festivals and celebrations each year and one of the most interesting is the Binissalem Wine Village during the Wine Festival in September. A visit inland to the ancient monastery in the small town of Valldemossa, home to classical composer Frederick Chopin is well worth a visit and a tour of the vineyards and small wineries on Majorca is an excellent way to spend a day. Golfing Timeshare Resorts in Majorca Golf is a massive draw card for the island and there are dozens of excellent course dotted around the countryside. Many are located within walking distance of timeshare resorts and hotels and offer superlative challenging golf in one of the world’s most beautiful settings. Pula Golf, designed by Jose Maria Olazabal and Son Gual Golf, by legendary Thomas Himmel are championship courses that offer outstanding facilities for keen golfers. The Marriott Son Antem timeshare (see below) is the most popular timeshare resale with golfers.

Marriott's Club Son Antem This graceful resort, set amid nearly 700 acres of unspoiled nature is a short drive from the best beaches in Majorca. Slightly apart from the bustle of the beachfront, Marriott’s Club Son Antem timeshare resales are highly sought after by UK travellers. Superb onsite facilities include two Marriott golf courses, restaurants, bars a full Spa and 3 swimming pools. Spacious spit-level units make for an ideal family holiday home on Majorca. Purchasing timeshare in Majorca Buying a timeshare resale in Majorca is easy with Worldwide Timeshare Hypermarket. Provided we have been able to find you a resale that meets your needs and have answered all your questions, the consultant handling your enquiry will be able to make an offer on your behalf to the individual who has registered their timeshare for sale. If a price is agreed then our own in-house contracts department will be responsible for ensuring the change of ownership of your timeshare resale whilst any monies paid are held in trust. For more information as to how we work and for examples of our paperwork, please see our Buy Timeshare section or call 01202 544 870.

Selling timeshare in Florida If you currently own timeshare in Majorca which you are considering how to sell then we hope that you will be pleased to hear that you can register your timeshare for sale with Worldwide Timeshare Hypermarket absolutely free of charge! As a UK company we adhere to both UK and EU legislation governing the resale of timeshares and have thousands of satisfied buyers and sellers. We appreciate that the task of who to register your timeshare for sale with can be a daunting one and so you may wish to take a moment to read our Sell Timeshare section which even provides examples of our paperwork. To register your timeshare for sale give us a call today on 01202 544 871. Can't find what you're looking for? We have thousands more timeshare weeks on our books that may not appear on our website. For help please call 01202 544 870 Sort your results

Question: The island of Majorca has a name that means "larger island". Which island is the "smaller island"?
Answer: Minorca