Why Mallorca? | SPL Villas Blog

Villa holidays in Mallorca

Blessed with an enticing Mediterranean climate, spectacular landscapes, divine cuisine and irresistible Spanish charm, Mallorca effortlessly ticks all the boxes as a fantastic holiday destination.

Situated off the east coast of Spain, Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands. The island's abundant natural beauty sets the scene for your holiday. Here you find a sun-kissed coast with hidden coves, pine trees and long sandy beaches. The Tramuntana mountains form a magnificent backdrop as you explore the island.

Historic villages, white windmills, almond trees, citrus and olive groves adorn the countryside. Dotted along the coast is a wealth of holiday resorts with activities and nightlife galore to satisfy all ages and tastes.

Mallorca is also a magnet for sport enthusiasts. Golfers in particular love the island’s numerous pristine courses. Cyclists have a fabulous mix of routes in the mountains and along the coast to enjoy. Water sports are popular all over the island, from diving and snorkelling to windsurfing and sailing. There really is something for everyone in Mallorca!

When to go to Mallorca

Mallorca is bathed in sunshine for much of the year. Its glorious Mediterranean climate ensures long, warm summers and mild winters.

Villa holidays in Mallorca — Mallorca in July and August

July and August are easily the most popular months for a villa holiday in Mallorca. Temperatures sizzle in the 30's. Head to the beach or explore the island first thing in the morning or following your afternoon siesta to avoid the hottest part of the day. You will feel refreshed when bathed with Mallorca's 'embat' sea breeze and regular cooling dips in the sea or your pool.

Mallorca in Spring and Autumn

Visit Mallorca in the spring or autumn for warm, sunny days without the sweltering heat. It is ideal for active sports. Compared to the height of the summer, there are fewer visitors and villa rental prices are lower too.

Temperatures are generally in the mid 20's to 30's in May, June, September and October. Compared to May, the sea is warmer in October, but there is more chance of rainfall, particularly in the northwest and mountains.

Mallorca off season

Although the best time of the year to visit Mallorca is between May and October, Mallorca is becoming a year-round destination as the island has so much to offer. Visit in February for beautiful blue skies, fresh sea air, deserted white beaches, citrus ready to pick and almond blossom in full bloom. It may be chilly in the evening, but by day, it is often warm enough to sit outside in the sunshine.

How to get to Mallorca

There is usually a good choice of direct flights to Mallorca from most UK airports, particularly from May until October. A direct flight to Palma International Airport from the UK takes around 3 hours. If you are travelling with little ones, make sure you pack enough entertainment for the flight! If you have a choice for flight times, choose flights to coincide with our tenancy times so you arrive in the afternoon and leave in the morning.

A taxi from the airport will take you to the villa or pick up a hire car for the week to give you an easy way to get around during your stay.

Where in Mallorca is best for your villa holiday?

Pollensa villa holidays — We have a wonderful choice of Mallorca villas in key locations, from rural retreats to coastal homes, romantic boltholes and family-friendly holiday rentals. Most have pools and some are within walking distance of the beach, sports facilities, shops and bars. If you are wondering where in Mallorca would suit you best, read on to find out.

Villas with pools in Pollensa

Some of our most popular villas with pools are nestled in the lush countryside around Pollensa (Pollença in Spanish) and Puerto Pollensa. With stunning views of the Tramuntana mountains nearby, the setting is stunning. It is convenient too. So much is within easy reach. The charming old town of Pollensa with its cobbled streets, cafes and restaurants is perfect for a stroll and leisurely drink. We love stocking up on supplies at its colourful Sunday market and checking out its arty boutiques.

Fabulous Puerto Pollensa is a short drive away too with its family-friendly, golden beaches, promenade, yachts, water sports, golf, vibrant bars and restaurants.

Villas with pools in Cala San Vicente

Drive just 10 minutes northwest from Pollensa through the mountains and you reach our villas in Cala San Vicente. A picturesque Mallorcan fishing village with a few hotels, villas and local shops, it has a more low-key feel compared to the larger resorts on the island. It is perfect for those who love snorkelling along the rocky coastline, climbing the surrounding mountains or even just soaking up the sunshine on one of its three gorgeous beaches. Cala Molins is a long, sandy stretch while Cala Barques and Santa Clara are more intimate coves.

Alcudia summer holidays — Alcudia villas to rent

Head east along the coast from Pollensa and within 20 minutes you arrive in the impressive resort of Alcudia. Not only will you find one of the longest sandy beaches in Mallorca here but there are plenty of attractions for all ages and styles. From waterparks, lively bars, restaurants and yachts to Roman ruins, a nature reserve and a characterful old town with cobbled streets and pretty cafes, there is so much to discover. For classic family holiday entertainment, head to Alducia's Hidropark with its water slides and inflatables. The stunning 18-hole, Alcanada golf course is a big attraction here if you are a golfer, with its gorgeous sea views and lighthouse.

Villas with pools in Sa Pobla and Can Picafort

Keep heading east along the sandy beach from Alcudia and you come to Playa de Muro, the nearest beach to our villas by the village of Sa Pobla. Its white sands and turquoise waters are heavenly. Split between the more family friendly Alcudia Pins and Las Gaviotas with its lively bars and restaurants. a villa here gives you the best of both worlds.

Continue along this stunning coastline passing olive groves and pine trees to the resort of Can Picafort. Ideal for couples or families, the setting boasts pristine white sands, tall palm trees and a classic Spanish resort feel. Unwind or dine together on your terrace or head out for a taste of Mallorcan nightlife.

Villas in Arta

Head up to the impressive 14th century San Salvador for the views and amble through its pretty streets for a dose of old-world charm. You find several excellent restaurants here or just enjoy a cooling drink at one of the many cafes before heading back home for lunch on the terrace. Be sure to visit the market for fresh food supplies, traditional handmade pottery and handwoven baskets.

Discover the hills and wildlife of nearby Llevant Natural Park. If you prefer more remote beaches, you will love the untouched, white, sandy beaches of Cala Mitjana and Cala Torta, just 15 minutes’ drive from Arta. You can even try a spot of surfing on Cala Mesquida beach.

Villas in Cala D'Or

Cala d'Or is a series of scenic, sandy coves in the southeast of the island and ideal for families, couples or groups of friends. It is a wonderful spot for diving, snorkelling, windsurfing or even just pootling around on a pedal boat. What was once a simple fishing village is now a rather sophisticated resort complete with a marina brimming with yachts, stylish boutiques, bars and restaurants. Chic villas and hotels are tucked behind pine trees and palms, overlooking the sea or just inland surrounded by picturesque countryside.

How is the food and wine in Mallorca?

The food in Mallorca is fresh, delicious and seasonal. With its enviable Mediterranean island climate and fertile soil, what you eat is literally plucked from the surrounding fields or sea then prepared with Mallorcan panache.

As you explore the island, you spot almond and fig trees, citrus and olive groves. You may even be lucky enough to have fruit trees in your villa garden. You have an amazing choice of juicy-looking vegetables and fruit grown on the island at your local market. Pick the freshest and head back to your villa for summer dining on the terrace. It is a wonderful way for cautious eaters in the family to try something new in the privacy of your holiday home. Curious foodies will love traditional Mallorcan cuisine so take the plunge and try as much as you can, following our foodie tips.

Breakfast in Mallorca

Firstly, go for ensaïmadas for breakfast, a sweet swirl of pastry which goes perfectly with a coffee, hot chocolate or freshly squeezed Mallorcan orange juice. Pa amb oli, or bread and oil, perhaps with garlic and tomatoes is the breakfast of choice for most on the island.

Lunch and dinner in Mallorca

Secondly, if you are out and about exploring the island, you may prefer a light lunch on the go. Choose delicious cocarrois, pastries stuffed with vegetables or coca de trampó, a tasty baked flatbread topped with peppers, tomatoes and onions. Freshly picked fruit is a must too, perhaps apricots, melon or grapes, depending on the season.

Thirdly, Spanish tapas is a great way to sample a range of tasty treats in an informal beach restaurant or local village eatery. For a special occasion, go for one of Mallorca's incredible Michelin-starred restaurants located all over the island.

Seafood is out of this world in Mallorca. Octopus, prawns and squid are typical tapas treats. A huge variety of grilled fish or lobster, fresh from the sea, is a favourite main course. Try mushrooms and truffles, gathered from the Tramuntana mountains as part of your tapas too. If you are a meat-eater, you will love Mallorca's cured meats. From chorizo to salami, it has a wonderfully distinctive flavour.

Every meal is best accompanied by exceptionally delicious Mallorcan wine of course, such as Binissalem, a fruity red or a white blended with Moli, a native white grape. If wine is your passion, then you should visit Mallorca's wineries for tastings. Try Bodegas Ribas, the oldest winery on the island.

Dessert and sweets in Mallorca

Lastly, you have permission to gorge on cakes in Mallorca as it is all part of the cultural experience! For a traditional snack, turrón is the answer, a mouth-watering, almond sweet. The 'must try' dessert is greixonera de brossat, an incredible cheesecake made with cinnamon, lemon and requeson, a local cream cheese. Locally made artisan ice cream is plentiful too and a great incentive for excursions with kids and treat after a day on the beach.