Destination Guide to Mallorca

Impossibly azure waters, rugged limestone cliffs, dreamy towns still dressed in Moorish architecture—it’s no wonder a single visit to Mallorca was all it took for Jessica Wright of Bon Traveler to fall in love with Spain’s brightest Balearic island. With her sights set on someday relocating here, not unlike artist Joan Miró did in 1956, the globe-hopping Northern Californian returned in June with her husband and eight-month-old daughter to linger for a month, slowly exploring three regions: Deiá, Palma and Santanyí. In the process, she racked up this greatest-hits list of hotels, eateries, shops and special spots. Here’s her Destination Guide to Mallorca.

STAY

La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel

Arguably one of the best hotels on Mallorca, Belmond’s La Residencia is the perfect spot for hiding out under the Mediterranean sun. Located in the cliffside village of Deiá, under the towering Tramuntana Mountains, it’s well known as a celebrity escape. Everything you need is on-property—luxurious rooms, three pools, a spa and exceptional dining. My favorite part of the stay here was watching the sun cascade over the mountainside with a cocktail in hand at Café Miro.

Hotel Antigua Palma

When it comes to exploring the bustling city of Palma, where you stay matters. Hotel Antigua is a choice place to call home, with its chic suites, rooftop, and knowledgeable staff on hand to help plan your time. While there, one of my favorite experiences was booking out the private spa that had a sauna, steam room and a personal hot tub.

Can Ferrereta

The newest hotel to open in the well-loved city of Santanyí is Can Ferrereta. Boutique, adults-only and set off the main city square, it’s a wonderful city retreat. When you pass through the doors, you’re immersed amongst quiet patios, lush gardens and one stunning pool to enjoy. As a previous 17th-century mansion, the owners have taken this beautiful property and finished it with eye-catching art and soothing tones.

EAT & DRINK

El Olivo

There are those dining experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime and this is one of them. Eating under the olive trees with views of Deiá, El Olivo is an elevated Spanish restaurant at La Residencia. If you choose the set menu, each of its several courses take you through bright colors, strong flavors and modern preparations. I highly recommend booking in advance and timing it with sunset.

Nama

A change in cuisine is always in order when traveling. Nama serves flavorful Asian-inspired dishes like a duck salad, Pad Thai, and rich dumplings. It’s a beautiful patio and always top of my list to visit in Deiá.

Ca’s Patró March

On the west coast of Mallorca, it’s a classic for any time, with its thatched roof, turquoise cala (inlet) in the background and fresh seafood brought in each day. Ca’s Patró March is a fan favorite and one of the busiest restaurants on the island for good reason.

 

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Mercat de l’Olivar

This market in Palma always buzzes mid-day and the locals know to walk past the stalls, into the “fish” side to one of the seafood tapas bars. Really any will do—just grab a seat and order what’s fresh that day.

La Rosa Vermutería & Colmado

La Rosa is the perfect introduction to tapas and pintxos, like their Spanish omelet and house vermouth. On a Sunday, you’ll find the Palma locals popping into the bar for a quick bite and drink.

Bodega Barahona – Casa Manolo

If there is one reservation to make, it’s here; Bodega Barahona is an institution in the Santanyí region. It’s located just outside the city center in the nearby village of Ses Salines and well worth the drive to taste its seafood. If you order a few things, let it be the grilled squid broken down tableside or the fish baked in salt. You also can’t go wrong with any of the starters, such as the fried artichoke.

Laudat

Small plates and elevated cuisine make Laudat a standout in Santanyí. You’ll find mostly Mediterranean cuisine here, with the beef tartar being my favorite dish on the menu.

SHOP

de Moniö

As you stroll the main street of Deiá, you’ll come across the shop and café of de Moniö which is tucked off the road. It’s such a lovely and unique shop with local jewelry, shoes and pottery for sale next to the café.

Gordiola

Unique to Palma, this historic glass-blowing shop in the city specializes in glassware and vases. Opened in 1719, Gordiola is at the root of glassware in Europe. The best part is you could have any of the sets shipped back home to you, for a price of course.

Arquinesia Perfumes

My favorite souvenir to pick up while traveling is a new perfume and this Palma perfumery is routed in the Balearics. The signature scents of Arquinesia represent the islands and make for the perfect gift to bring home. One of the most pleasing parts is walking through the historic home that the shop is placed in—an experience in and of itself.

EXPLORE

Deiá Village

Deiá is the sort of village you can easily just stroll and follow the winding streets. For the best views, take the steep road up to Sant Joan de Deiá where you can see the ocean. Down on the main street is where you’ll find all of the little shops, such as de Moniö, and the local ceramics at Gres Gallery.

Cala Deiá

For those looking to cool off with a swim, head down to Cala Deiá for a stunning turquoise cala. It’s a favorite for sunbathing on the rocks and swimming in one of the most beautiful calas on the island. My recommendation is drive down early to get a parking spot or, if up for an effort, you can hike down and back.

Palma Center

One of the best parts of a visit to Palma de Mallorca is exploring the city center. The old streets wind in and around the towering Catedral-Basilica de Santa Maria de Mallorca—it’s well worth a visit, make sure to get tickets in advance. You’ll find artisan shops, bustling tapa bars and plenty of gelato shops.

Fundació Miró Mallorca

Step into the studio of Joan Miró, painter and sculptor, to see his workspace and original artworks. Fundació Miró Mallorca is currently under renovation but the main hall is still open to see his incredible studio. The location is just outside of Palma, reachable by a 10-minute taxi ride.

Santanyí Farmer’s Market

In the heart of Santanyí, the market comes alive in the summer months on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. Shop produce from Mallorca and peruse a variety of home goods, clothing and other local finds. If you want to do like the locals, grab a coffee at one of the many cafes to people watch.

S’Amarador Beach

One of the best ways to spend a morning on the east side is at one of the many beaches or calas dotted along the coastline. A favorite for an early morning swim is S’Amarador where you can easily park right at the beach and stroll in.