Worthwhile Journeys
You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.
What to Do in Palma de Mallorca
History
If you’re one to appreciate the value of well-worn wood and salt-bitten sails, you’ll be enamoured with the history of Palma de Mallorca. The city’s old town is a labyrinth of narrow streets teeming with tales from the Moorish period and beyond. Don’t miss the iconic La Seu Cathedral, which took a good 300 years to build, and the 10th-century Arab Baths.
Culture
The island has its own unique cultural spin, evident in its music, dance, and festivals. The Festival of St. John in June is a vibrant affair, and the Mallorcan Christmas traditions are something to behold. Art galleries are abundant, offering a fascinating blend of modern art and Spanish heritage.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
The coastline offers a range of breathtaking vistas that make for excellent photography and sailing landmarks. If you’re navigating along the coast, don’t miss the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range rising dramatically from the sea. There’s no shortage of bays to explore, like the idyllic Caló des Moro and Sa Calobra. Unfortunately, no lighthouses, but one can’t have everything.
Entertainment
As the sun sets, the city’s energy is far from dipping below the horizon. A plethora of bars offer live music and a selection of dance floors, from the jive of jazz to the rhythm of reggaeton. For a more serene evening, perhaps an opera at the Teatre Principal?
Eating Out
Mallorca’s culinary scene serves up a delectable mix of sea and land. Restaurants near the historic centre offer some of the best seafood paellas you’ll ever have. For a local twist, try tumbet, a Mallorcan vegetable layer bake.
Nature
If your sea legs are craving some terra firma, the Serra de Tramuntana offers hiking and biking trails. For those who prefer to relax, there are numerous beaches that stretch along the coastline, offering a sandy respite.
Unique Features
Palma de Mallorca has an intriguing mix of Moorish, Gothic and Modernist architecture, a feature that truly sets it apart. It’s not just a place to soak up the sun; it’s a destination for cultural enlightenment and adventure.
Accommodation
You might consider the Cap Rocat, a former military fortress turned luxury hotel. If spas are more your style, the St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort offers an expansive wellness area.
Official Tourist Website
For the most reliable information, visit the Palma de Mallorca official tourist website.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.
How to Get There
UK
Flights from London to Palma de Mallorca are frequent. Alternatively, one could take a train to Barcelona and a ferry to Mallorca.
Europe
Numerous flights operate from major European cities. Trains and ferries are also an option, particularly from Spanish ports.
North America
Direct flights are rare, but connections through major European hubs are straightforward.
Australia
Expect to switch planes at least once, typically in Asian or Middle Eastern hubs before connecting in a European city.
Special Interests
If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.
