Holidays in the Balearic Islands are a sure fire winner for people of all ages and theses Spanish islands in the Mediterranean really do offer something for everyone. The Balearics are made up of four islands, Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera with the capital of Palma sat on the main island of Majorca. Each island has its own unique charm and many have a view of the islands that do not match the reality. Often thought of as just mass market tourist centres, it is easy to get away from it all on all of these islands and enjoy a great break from every day life.
Balearic Island holidays are easily accessible from the UK with flights operating year round to Majorca and throughout the summer months to Ibiza and Menorca. Formentera is reached via ferry services from the port in Ibiza town. Flights to the islands take around two to two and half hours from the UK with many charter and low cost services available.
Best for...
Families should head for Menorca for its safe and golden beaches or the Northern Majorcan resort of Alcudia. There are also many resorts on the eastern side of the island with its many coves and sandy beaches along with the famous resorts of Palma Nova and Magalluf. All offer plenty for the family market. On Ibiza choose resorts such as Playa d'en Bossa, Santa Eulalia and Es Cana.
| Each island has its own unique charm... |
Couples of all ages will enjoy all of the resorts as there is so much on offer to get away from it all. Formentera in particular is somewhere to escape and really wind down with pristine sands and Neolithic historical sites.
The young have for years focused on the nightlife of Ibiza with San Antonio the major resort. The island still rocks to the beat of the nightclubs through the summer, however in recent years clampdowns on open air clubs and noise have ensured that the ravers can still enjoy the fun of the clubs whilst the rest of us enjoy a good nights sleep! Majorca is also a great option with plenty of nightlife south of the capital in the Magalluf area.
Accommodation ranges from self catering apartments and villas all the way through to five star hotels and there is a great supply of beds available in the mid range market of 3 and 4 stars.
Activities abound on the islands with water sports in particular as well as walking and cycling, so the islands are great if you like doing things as well as enjoying the fabulous weather.
Palma is also used as a base for a number of cruise ships operating Mediterranean itineraries and is a great location to spend some time at a hotel after your voyage.
What to do...
Sun, sea, sand and sangria. The islands have so much to offer from a simple relaxing break through to non stop activities.
All the main resorts have water based theme parks and lots of entertainment from world class clubs such Pacha through to dinner based shows that will really entertain the whole family.
Trips on Majorca up to Soller by the old railway and cable trams are a must as well as the cliffs above Deia and the monastery at Valdemossa. Cave trips by boat, islands day trips by boat from Ibiza to Formentera are great fun as well as tourists trips around the enormous natural harbour of Mahon on Menorca. And don't forget the gin tasting after that in the distillery on the waterfront. Castles in Palma and Ibiza Town plus the stunning Palma cathedral and the cobbled streets of Ciutadella on Menorca.
Shopping varies with Ibiza Town and Palma offering the most choice although there are many markets through the islands including the famous hippy market on Ibiza.
