Holidays on the islands do not have to be limited to sunbathing alone. The islands you will soon get to know are full of monuments, fabulous views, pristine nature and attractions, among others, for those who love water sports.
The Balearic Islands are a Spanish archipelago located in the western Mediterranean. The archipelago consists of nearly 200 islets, among which we can distinguish 5 main islands: Majorca, Minorca, Cabrera, Ibiza and Formentera. These Spanish islands have been an autonomous region of Spain since 1983, and both Spanish (Castilian) and Catalan are used in their territory, hence many towns have double names. Each of the islands has something that distinguishes it from the others, and certainly everyone will find their favorite one. At the same time, all of them are captivating with their beautiful nature, which attracts crowds of tourists from all over the world.
Balearic Islands – islands for everyone
The Spanish islands located in the Mediterranean Sea are a perfect holiday destination even for the most demanding visitors. No matter what you value most during your vacation, you will surely find it on these islands. The Balearic archipelago offers kilometers of beaches for lovers of sunbathing and seaside towns for those who prefer sightseeing and walks along charming streets.
On the islands you can find breathtaking landscapes like from a fairy tale, delightful nature, and the wonderful climate makes holidays in this part of the Mediterranean Sea enjoyable at almost any time of the year. You will be delighted by the hills, waterfalls, almond and olive groves, as well as caves.
If you are looking for an active holiday and a bit of adrenaline, you will fulfill yourself in various water sports. The Balearic Islands are a perfect place for, among others, diving in the blue sea, windsurfing or sailing. The islands will also be loved by those who do not like to move away from cities and luxury, because it is really not difficult to find elegant resorts there. Although Majorca and Ibiza are the most famous among tourists, you will certainly leave each of these islands full of delight and hope for a quick return.
Majorca Island
Majorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and the most popular among the archipelago in eastern Spain. The heart of Majorca is Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the island, located on its western coast. It is this city that hides many monuments, making it a popular destination for tourists. The most emblematic point of the city is the La Seu Cathedral – a huge temple that is the most famous building on the entire island, and perhaps even the entire archipelago. In addition to the monumental cathedral, the Almudaina Royal Palace, Bellver Castle and the fascinating shark tank in Palma Aquarium are also waiting for your visit there.
Palma de Mallorca is just a gateway to exploring this unique island. Although wonderful beaches can be found on its coast at every step, mountain lovers will certainly not be disappointed there. Hiking trips will go to the Serra de Tramuntana or Serra de Llevant mountains, and if you prefer long walks with a view of the horizon, be sure to go to the picturesque Cap de Formentor promontory. On the east coast, the charming towns of Sa Coma and Porto Cristo await, near which you can visit the Dragon Caves, known throughout Majorca, and one of the largest underground lakes in the world. No one should miss the town of Valldemossa, the history of which is somewhat connected with Poland. It was there that Fryderyk Chopin stayed for a longer time, and it was also there that a museum dedicated to this Polish composer was opened.
NICE TO KNOW: Es Trenc beach in the south of Majorca is considered one of the most beautiful beaches you can find on the island.
Minorca Island
Minorca is called the younger sister of Majorca, and although its landscapes are similar to the largest of the Balearic Islands, the atmosphere there is definitely calmer. On this island you can easily find accommodation even at the peak of the season.
The symbol of Minorca is sandy beaches and crystal clear water, hence it is one of the favorite destinations for diving enthusiasts. However, this island is not just beaches. It is known for its mysterious, prehistoric buildings, the origin of which has not been determined to this day. You will easily recognize these huge boulders while walking around the island.
While discovering the secrets of Minorca, it is also worth visiting the historic center of Ciudadela, the prehistoric remains of Naveta des Tudons, the S’Albufera des Grau nature reserve, archaeological sites such as those in Mahón, or one of the small fishing villages that still retain their ancient traditions.
Ibiza Island
Almost everyone has heard of Ibiza as the most partying island in Europe. Today, however, it is time to put aside this stereotypical thinking and see Ibiza from a different side, because the truth is that it is a perfect place not only for partying until dawn, but also for family holidays or discovering beautiful nature.
The capital of the island is the city of Ibiza, and if you still want to discover the party side of the island, it is in this city that you will find discos run by the best DJs in the world. Being in the city, however, you should see much more. The old town in the capital of the island of the same name is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The old district, known as Dalt Vila, will lead you between whitewashed buildings to a viewpoint from which there is an amazing view. Within Dalt Vila, it is worth seeing the 13th-century Cathedral of Virgen de las Nieves, the bastions of the wall and the town hall, and nearby you can visit the Puig des Molins necropolis and the Archaeological Museum.
Ibiza also offers a lot of attractions outside its capital. You will get to know the wild coasts of this island by taking a sailing trip from the ports in Santa Eulària des Riu and Sant Antoni de Portmany, and you will see a glimpse of its extraordinary nature by visiting the Es Vedrá nature reserve.
Formentera Island
Formentera is a picture-postcard island that is worth going to to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Thanks to its small area, it is very easy to discover, both by bike and on foot, and believe me – as soon as you get there, you will want to take a close look at every corner of it.
Formentera’s hallmarks are sharp cliffs and coastal views, characterized by small towns with natural harbors and beautiful lighthouses. In the heart of the island there are also charming landscapes, the main characters of which are this time lakes, salt marshes, caves and pine forests. Be sure to visit two historic towns – Sant Francesc Xavier and San Ferran de ses Roques, as well as the highest village on the island, Pilar de la Mola. In Formentera you will also fall in love with hippie markets, and although you will rather not experience a club party there, you can have great fun swimming in the blue sea and diving.
For this it is best to choose the unique Ses Salines Nature Reserve, located in the north of the island, between Formentera and Ibiza. The entire park has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its biological diversity, and its biggest star are flamingos, which you can spot there with a bit of luck.
Cabrera Island
Actually, it is not one island. The entire Cabrera Archipelago National Park consists of 19 islets, but of course Cabrera itself is the main center. It is the smallest and definitely the most unique of the main Balearic Islands. It covers only 17 m² and, like Formentera, has no airport, so you can only get there by boat, departing in the summer months from Majorca.
Cabrera has neither a single inhabitant nor a hotel. The only place where you can stay there is a hostel for a maximum of 12 people. This is extremely small, considering how popular the island is, so you can probably guess that it is worth booking such accommodation in advance. How did it happen that this island is still such a pristine area? Cabrera was declared a National Marine and Terrestrial Park in 1991, and it was then that the few families living there so far were displaced from the island.
This strict protection was earned by its unique richness of flora and fauna. This virtually untouched by human hand island is home to over 400 rare botanical species and over 200 animal species.
