In the Northeast of Mallorca

Mallorca simply brings happiness. And for many reasons. The scent of the island is unique, and its size is perfect for road trips. Those who only stay in their hotel are missing out. The view of the beautiful island will be as limited as a view through blinders.

The most beautiful places are found where you leave the beaten tourist paths and create your own route - this is also true for Mallorca. We have already introduced many highlights of this beautiful Spanish island, showcasing the advantages of the island's capital Palma de Mallorca and the Serra de Tramuntana, as well as the two faces of mallorcan south between the famous Ballermann and endless natural beaches. Therefore, an important part of the island cannot be missed: Dragon caves, diverse weekly markets, and hidden idyllic beaches await to be discovered in the northeastern Mallorca.

Whether it's interesting history and insights into the past, long-standing traditions at Mallorca's markets, or beautiful idyllic places: The northeast has so much to discover and experience that it was truly hard for us to focus on the highlights. Nevertheless, we want to give you an insight into what there is to see in this part of the island. Here are our personal hotspots in northeastern Mallorca.

Endlessly, the serpentine roads wind along the cliffs of the Formentor Peninsula. Those driving here need strong nerves, as the roads are narrow and not only typical cyclists of Mallorca struggle up the mountains. It can very well happen that you turn a corner and suddenly find yourself face to face with a huge tour bus, which, along with a group of tourists, is making its way back down the valley. Sometimes there are no guardrails, just small walls separating the car from the abyss, but that's a blessing for the passenger who can just sit back and enjoy the fantastic view over the walls. It's 20 kilometers to the northernmost point of the island and the famous lighthouse at Cap de Formentor. Here, not only are there plenty of tourists, but also a few goats, so take those turns carefully.

If the weather is good, you can even see all the way to Mallorca's little sister island Menorca. This excursion is particularly good for the mornings when most other vacationers are still having breakfast. Then, you also won't have trouble finding a parking spot. On the way back, be sure to make a swimming stop at Cala Pi de la Posada after about 11 kilometers. When you walk a few hundred meters along the beach, it gets quieter until you can comfortably lay yourself by the foot of the Barcelo Formentor hotel and soak up the sun.

Weekly markets have great significance in Mallorca and in most other Spanish towns. They are part of Mallorcan tradition and offer much more than just food. In addition to fresh fruit and typical Spanish foods, there is often clothing, leather goods, jewelry, antiques, or handmade crafts as well as sometimes even live music and entertainment.

At the harbor of Puerto Pollensa, you should definitely stop by on a market day: In addition to the good fish restaurants found here, the Wednesday market, where you will find not only clothing, shoes, and handicrafts but especially wonderfully fresh fruits, is worth a visit. Much of the fruits and vegetables you find here actually come directly from the island. In one of the towns in the north, it's actually market day quite often.

Puerto Pollensa:

The farmer's market in Sineu, one of the oldest farmers' markets, is especially recommended, taking place every Wednesday. Here, like in the old days, fruit, vegetables, and various livestock are offered, and if your tractor broke during the last plowing, you can also get help here. The atmosphere is truly special, and with a little imagination, you can feel as though you are transported to another time.

Farmers' Market Sineu:

Across from Puerto Pollensa is the beautiful town of Alcúdia, where a very popular weekly market takes place every Tuesday and Sunday. It is one of the largest weekly markets in Mallorca and stretches across the old town of Alcúdia. Fresh vegetables, spices, and a variety of olive types are found here, making you hungry for a large portion of Spanish tapas. But you can also find such markets in many other beautiful towns in Mallorca. It's best to check online beforehand, as this way you can get to know Spanish and especially Mallorcan culture a little better.

Alcúdia:

Northeast of the artists' village Artà and very close to the popular tourist destination Cala Ratjada lies Capdepera. Here on the hill is the 700-year-old Castell de Capdepera. The strategic position of the castle was meant to protect the inhabitants of the region from pirate attacks. It is a fortress from the 14th century, or what is left of it. To see this fascinating castle ruin, you first need to climb the Puig de Capdepera which is nearly 160 meters high - but you won't be disappointed, as the exhibitions and museums not only give you an interesting insight into Mallorca's past but, as a crowning touch, you also get a fantastic view over the east coast. If you plan a Mallorca vacation in Capdepera in May, you shouldn't miss the medieval market that takes place annually on the third weekend of May. The castle can be visited all year round, and if you find the time, we can warmly recommend a detour.

Another historical highlight can be found a few kilometers north of Palma: the pilgrimage site Santuari de Lluc in the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. It is very popular, which is evidenced by the annual visitor numbers of almost one million. It is especially pilgrims that come here, and not without reason. The fascinating architecture of the buildings promises an exciting story and will transport you back to the 13th century in Mallorca. Indeed, there are a number of old ruins of monasteries and castles in Mallorca that are definitely worth a visit!

In the municipality of Manacor, you'll find a beautiful cave system known as Coves del Drach, the Dragon Caves of Porto Cristo. Approximately 1,700 meters wind through the caves in the mountain, and inside you'll even find one of the deepest lakes in the world. In the middle of the lake, a short live concert takes place several times a day that 1,100 visitors can watch at once. During this time, the quartet is transported across the lake in a small boat. The entrance fee isn't exactly cheap; each adult pays €15, while children pay only about half. However, we can tell you that the underground caves are something everyone must experience at least once. The concert and the particularly impressive lighting create a very unique atmosphere. Additionally, visitors have the option to be taken across the lake on the boat.

Surely you have heard that Mallorca not only offers beautiful beaches for relaxation but also action for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Across the island, you can find beautiful hiking trails and routes for mountain biking as well as a wide range of water sports, about which you already got a little insight. At Torrent de Pareis, a stream leads through a canyon, which is an absolute hiker's paradise. A diversity of impressive nature is offered to hikers, and the path requires skill and hiking experience, making it definitely a highlight. The entire traverse takes up to five hours, but a high level of difficulty promises you an adventure of the highest class. The breathtaking panoramic view is indeed the crowning touch.

For those who find hiking through the canyon too risky, we recommend the Cúber reservoir just a few kilometers south of Torrent de Pareis. At an altitude of 750 meters lies the largest reservoir on the island, not far from the highest mountain of Mallorca, Puig Major. Both the mountain and the reservoir offer wonderful outdoor experiences: It's a popular region among mountain bikers, road cyclists, and hikers because this mountain panorama simply has to be seen. You may not be able to climb the peak of Puig Major, as it is designated as a military restricted area, but road cyclists do manage to reach altitudes of up to 900 meters of the 1,445 meter high island giant.

Mallorca is heaven on earth when it comes to beautiful beaches and coves, and the northeast of Mallorca is the absolute mecca of coves. Neither in the south nor the west do you have the opportunity to explore so many different beaches and small hidden paradises. We have compiled our favorites for you.

Here in the bay of Alcúdia, even in high summer, it is not too crowded and above all, not touristy. Anyone who walks a few meters to the right or left from the beach accesses will soon have plenty of space to sunbathe and play beach volleyball. The beach is particularly popular with locals and water sports enthusiasts: Surfing or stand-up paddling adds a lot of action and fun to a relaxing beach day.

The small coves of S`Illot have a major advantage or disadvantage, depending on how you see it - there is no fine and wonderfully soft sandy beach but rather pebbles. This might not be quite as cozy and also not as pleasant to look at, but in our opinion, two major advantages outweigh: Firstly, because of this, not many people come here and secondly, the water is much clearer, making it perfect for snorkeling. Water shoes are definitely recommended here, as you might injure yourself on the rocks or step on a sea urchin. Those who are exhausted from snorkeling should treat themselves to a Mediterranean meal at one of the nearby restaurants.

At the easternmost tip of the island lies the beautiful bay Cala Mesquida. The beach is still untouched and is surrounded by a dune area that is partially protected by law. The crystal clear blue water simply shimmers heavenly in the afternoon sun, creating a paradisiacal atmosphere.

Actually, it's not just one, but four beach sections inviting you to bathe and relax. There are also a few beach bars where you can enjoy a light lunch and maybe even a cold draft beer. However, you will never be alone in Cala Molins, even in the off-season.

Cala Murta is also a rocky and pebbly beach, which makes you happy with its crystal clear turquoise water. On just 80 meters in width, you can enjoy pure nature, as only those who are willing to take a 25-minute walk from the parking lot will come here. The path leads from the parking lot past a house through a gate to the beach. Once you have completed the hike, you will be rewarded with clear water in turquoise-blue tones. The tranquility and idyll at Cala Murta, along with opportunities for picnicking, perfectly round off the ambiance.

Port D'Alcúdia itself is not particularly exciting. However, if you drive through the town by car and look for parking in Carrer de la Cinestra or in one of the side streets, you can see the endless long beach through the fragrant pine trees. Here you can wade meters into the water without losing the ground beneath your feet. This beach is especially suitable for families, as your kids can play in the shade under the pines and splash around in the shallow water.

To help you plan your trip to northeastern Mallorca, here is an overview of where to find what: coves, beaches, outdoor hotspots, markets, and other places we have reported on, all can be found on this map:

Do you want to know what to expect on Mallorca? We know our favorite island inside and out and have brought a video showcasing the most beautiful highlights of the island. See for yourself:

We hope we could show you that it is not an exaggeration to praise the diversity of the island and its different facets beyond measure. If you ask us, Mallorca is perfect for all vacationers. Whether you want to party, have discovered hiking in Mallorca, or are looking for natural small coves and turquoise blue sea - you will find happiness here. Promised!