Saturday, August 31, 2013

An Introduction To Mallorca

By Tim Sutherland


Balearic Islands

With a flying time from northern Europe of little more than two hours, the Balearic Islands are extremely popular locations for holidaymakers of different nationalities. Located east of the Spanish mainland, the Islas Baleares make up four really different islands: Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Their position in the Mediterranean Sea has made them at risk to attack throughout history, however today's enemies-- the millions of travelers who visit every year for a holiday-- are welcome.

Mallorca is the largest of the islands, with most likely the most varied landscape of any European island-- ranging from flat fertile plains to the mountainous peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana, to the 262 beaches. For more than a hundred years, site visitors have actually been coming to Mallorca, however the plan holiday boom in the 1970s saw dramatic growth in visitor numbers. Today, Mallorca is a location for a broad range of holidays, including sailing, golfing, cycling, walking and rambling, gastronomic, rural, luxury, and, obviously, the standard sun, sand and sea beach vacation. Mallorca is known worldwide for its leather items, quality regional wines, and olive oils.

Menorca is smaller sized than its neighbor and the furthest of the Balearic Islands from Spain. Its shoreline is fairly untainted and the countryside usually flat. The island has a wealth of Bronze Age stone structures and 'talaiotic' remains are a typical feature of the landscape. The capital Mahon (Ma) was occupied by the British a number of times throughout the 18th century, and this is shown in the Georgian architecture of the town. Ciutadella, in the west, is the other major town on the Minorca. The island is famous for its regional gin, its cheeses (you'll see lots of dairy cows in the meadows) and the yearly Sant Joan fiesta in Ciutadella on June 24th.

Ibiza (Eivissa) is understood to lots of as a celebration island, however there's a lot more to provide here than all-night clubbing. A magnet for the rich and famous, 'the white island'-- with its unique whitewashed structures and extraordinary light-- has serene countryside showcasing groves of olives, figs and almonds, and wooded hillsides. The capital, Ibiza, and Sant Antoni are the main towns. An hour's boat trip from Ibiza harbor will take you to the unspoiled island of Formentera.

The official language of the Balearic Islands is Catalan, although each island has its own dialect. Castilian Spanish is, nonetheless, spoken by almost everybody.

Mallorca (or Majorca) is the biggest of Spain's Balearic Islands, with a long and fascinating history. Outdoors Palma, Mallorcas capital city, highlights consist of Valldemossa, Serra de Tramuntana and Sller. In the north, Alcdia has Roman remains, Cap Formentor offers impressive views, and there's the appealing town and port of Pollensa. In the southwest, see Santa Ponsa, Andratx town and port, and the luxury marina of Puerto Portals. East coast resorts include Cala d'Or and the tranquil former fishing town of Porto Colom. The Mediterranean climate makes Mallorca a wonderful destination for various kinds of holiday throughout the year and guides and vacationer information are offered on this site.




About the Author:



No comments: