Mallorca was considered a party stronghold for a long time. But now the hidden beauty of the largest island of the Balearic Islands comes to light and inspires travelers from all over the world. Especially for Europeans, Mallorca is a popular holiday destination, as it can be easily reached by plane. Due to the mild temperatures that grace the island all year round, there is no wrong time to fly to the Spanish sun. The island delights with a great variety of cultural sights, a diverse landscape and dream beaches. Falstaff TRAVEL readers voted Mallorca fifth in the Top Ten Places to be in a survey.

Currently, entry is allowed provided you register online beforehand and can show a negative PCR test that is not older than 72 hours.

Dream destination: Mallorca!

The image of the Ballermann Island is over! Because Mallorca has so much more to offer than numerous party hotspots. The fantastic location in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea alone makes Mallorca one of the most beautiful holiday destinations of all time. In addition, there are bays as far as the eye can see, winding old towns and sensational hiking or climbing opportunities. And also for culinary lovers, the island has a few surprises in store. How about the typical Mallorcan cuisine, which consists of fresh tapas, vegetable variations and fig bread, among other things? Or a walk through one of the countless markets on the island? You can see all this and much more in Palma, the capital of the island. Sights such as the famous Palma Cathedral, the Passeig del Borne boulevard and the Royal Gardens await visitors. After all, the city looks back on over 2000 years of history.

Mountain fans will be happy in the area around the Tramuntana Mountains in the west of the island. In 2011, the mountain range, which stretches almost 90 kilometres, was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is located between Andratx in the southwest and Cap de Formentor in the north of the island. In the middle of it are the two reservoirs Gorg Blau and Cúber. The mountain range is best known for its impressive dry stone walls and gnarled olive trees.

In the north of Mallorca is the popular town of Alcúdia, which is also home to the impressive dragon caves Coves del Drac (a stalactite cave with an underground lake), as well as picturesque old buildings - and all this amidst dream beaches and Caribbean flair. One reason why Mallorca has become one of the most popular holiday destinations is that there are more than 100 fantastic bathing resorts with white sandy beaches and lonely bays on it. But also the harbour with its countless tapas bars and impressive yachts is worth a visit.

There is a risk of confusion with Lisbon in the beautiful town of Sóller, which is located in the middle of the "Orange Valley". A narrow-gauge railway called the "Red Lightning" takes visitors from Palma to Sóller. As the name suggests, the town is best known for its wonderfully fragrant orange and lemon trees.

Top addresses in Mallorca

Mallorca holidaymakers should pay a visit to these three addresses in particular.

Royal Palace La Almudaina

Carrer del Palau Reial, s/n, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain.
www.patrimonionacional.es

The imposing royal palace has Arab origins and is now the official Mallorcan residence of the Spanish king. For official occasions, the Gothic salon is often used, the rest of the 20,000 square metre palace is also used as the seat of the military command. Therefore, only parts of the historic building can be visited, such as the chapel Santa Ana from the 14th century.

Béns d'Avall

Carretera de Deyá, km.56, 07100 Sóller, Balearic Islands, Spain
bensdavall.com.

In the heart of the pretty town of Sóller, Béns d'Avall restaurant welcomes guests with spectacular views of the sea. The cuisine combines traditional Mallorcan dishes with modern touches, such as carpaccio of red langoustine, shoulder of lamb marinated in honey and rosemary, and raviolo with foie gras.

Mercadillo De Alcudia

Camí de Ronda, 8, 07400 Alcúdia, Illes Balears, Spain

Throughout the island there are different markets almost every day, with which you can immerse yourself in the culture of the inhabitants. The Mercadillo De Alcúdia, in the middle of the old town, is particularly nice. Visitors can get hold of culinary specialities there, but also Spanish handicrafts. The market takes place on Tuesdays and Sundays from 8:00 to 13:30.

3 of the most beautiful hotels in Mallorca

Here you will find the top luxury hotels on the Balearic island.

Hotel Can Mostatxins

Carrer del Lledoner, 15, 07400 Alcúdia, Illes Balears, Spain
Tel: +34 971 54 96 39
hotelcanmostatxins.com

In the heart of Alcúdia's historic old town lies this exclusive hotel, with 19 uniquely designed rooms. Incidentally, the hotel got its unusual name from its former owner, a butcher who was known for his thin moustache (in Spanish: mostatxins). The highlight is certainly the historic wine press, which can be found in the basement. The rest of the hotel shines in a simple, modern elegance.

Hotel Espléndido

Es Traves 5, 07108 Puerto De Sóller - Mallorca, Spain
Tel: +34 (0)971 631850
esplendidohotel.com

The popular vintage beach hotel high above the sea awaits connoisseurs looking for peace and quiet and something special. In insider circles, it's known as the 'Bride of Sóller' - probably due to its tasteful design and stunning location right by the sea and at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains. Wherever you turn at Espléndido, there's a lovingly arranged detail, a secluded spot for daydreaming, a romantic sun terrace inviting you to linger.

Hotel Portixol

Carrer de la Sirena, 27, 07006 Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Tel: +34 971 271800
portixol.com.

This exceptional boutique hotel with just 25 rooms is located in Palma's luxury district and is a delight for individualists who appreciate the extravagant and special. The hotelier couple Landström have a fine hand for tasteful interiors. Only what touches the aesthetic soul comes into the house. The rooms are decorated with small pieces of furniture from Contain - two young Mallorcan creatives who are making a name for themselves with their interior collections. 

Picture Credits: Hotel Can Mostatxins, Grand Hotel Sóller, GPRO Valparaiso Palace & SPA, Alex Waltner / Pixabay, Hans Braxmeier / Pixabay, lapping / Pixabay, Nicole Pankalla / Pixabay, Thomas H. / Pixabay, Christian B / Pixabay, C. Koch / Pixabay