Mallorca is the biggest of the four islands in the Balearic group that offers everything you could wish for in a holiday. From long, golden beaches, tiny coves, mountains and remote villages to windmill-dotted plains; all year round enjoyment. Palma is the capital and occupies a seafront location. The old town has a cathedral and a maze of narrow streets. The views from Bellver Castle are breathtaking. There is a wide variety of bars, restaurants and nightlife in Palma. The Bay of Palma is the playground and consists of a crescent of white sand. On the western side of the island is Magaluf, the place to party, where clubs are open all night and parties don't stop. As a resort it also offers an outstanding sandy bay with water sports. Ample shops line the tightly-knit streets and a wide selection of bars and restaurants will keep everyone happy. Nearby Palma Nova is a popular and friendly resort, popular with families. its curving sand and shingle beaches are kept clean and safe, with lots of water sports.

Just 9km away from Palma is a charming resort, with fabulous views called Illetas. On the west coast are the resorts of Valdemossa, famous for its monastery and Deya, a picturesque village renowned for its music festivals and as a retreat of Robert Graves, the poet. The wonderful views in the area comprise of sheer cliffs and wooded mountains, characteristics familiar with the northwest of Mallorca.

Cala San Vicente is one of the most peaceful resorts, a small village with superb, sandy coves, separated with a rocky headland. There are only a few bars and restaurants here although they are very lively. 11km away is Puerto Pollensa. At the north of the island, it is formed around a large, natural bay with a small marina and long, sandy beach. An ideal resort for families. Just below here is Alcudia, where you will find one of the most beautiful and largest sandy beaches on Mallorca. Alcudia has grown around a thriving fishing port and has now developed into a bustling family resort with restaurants, bars, shops and an aqua park. In total contrast, a few miles inland is the old walled town, steeped in history.

In the southeast is a former fishing village by the name of Cala d'or. It now hosts Mallorca's largest holiday community. Here you will see typical, white Spanish buildings set amid greenery, pedestrianised lanes and an elegant yacht marina, surrounded by numerous beaches. Ca'n Pastilla , east of Palma is one of the most heavily built-up resort areas. It lies close to the Son San Juan Airport. The yacht harbour here can house over 500 vessels. The two mile long stretch of beach between here and El Arenal has more than its fair share of the island's hotels and attracts record numbers of bathers to the beach. Here you will find holiday makers of every nationality and as the night falls, the parties begin - right through till daybreak.

When on the island of Mallorca, you must see the world famous Caves of Drach (Caves of the Dragon). Here you will trek underground through over a mile of giant caverns. At the bottom is the highlight - a massive underground lake, lit up with coloured lights. take your seat in the purpose built auditorium as a string orchestra floats by on tiny, illuminated boats. Part of the journey back to the top is by boat. The caves attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year and can be very crowded in the summer months. The caves are located on the east coast of the island, near Porto Cristo, a wonderful fishing resort. The ruins of the hilltop Santueri Castle is worthy of a mention, dating back to Roman times.

When to visit the island
Like the other Balearic Islands, Mallorca enjoys a moderate climate all year round. A wall of mountains running along its northern coast protects it from cold winds. Although cooler than summer, in winter the weather is quite acceptable. The island boasts about 300 sunny days per year with an average of 5 hours sunshine each day in the winter and 10 hours in the summer.

Getting here
By air from major European cities there are daily non-stop flights. There is an enormous choice of package holidays arranged by tour operators which include flights and accommodation. By car, there are many ferry links to France and Santander in Spain. During peak season you are advised to make firm reservations.