The Quiet Side of Mallorca

This is your guide to the quiet side of Mallorca

You know, the one where you don’t need to drink all day.

I’ve been to many cities in Spain, but it took me seven years to make it out to the popular islands off the east coast. I’d say it was about time!

When you mention to someone that you’re heading to Mallorca, most people imagine non-stop partying in busy cities like Magaluf. This was definitely not that kind of holiday. A group of six of us descended on Alcudia, on the quieter side of the island, to support the Ironman event that weekend. We rented a massive Airbnb listing, complete with barbeque and pool, for a long weekend of relaxing and cheering.

Outside of the day-long event, we had time to visit a few other areas of the island, and wow.. is it beautiful. If you find yourself in Mallorca and don’t want to drink all day and night, here are a few other options for you to check out.

Sa Colobra & Torrent de Pareis

The road through Sa Colobra is a mere 13 km long, but it takes you some 26 hairpin turns to get from the top down to the water. It’s very popular with cyclists, and there aren’t many opportunities to pass other drivers. Go early to avoid traffic!

Torrent de Pareis can be reached on foot from the Port of Sa Colobra. You’ll wander through a few caves and reach a gorgeous beach nestled between cliffs. It’s stunning, and well worth a trip. Make sure you plan to see this part of the island on a day that you’re not in a rush, because the traffic and tiny roads will most definitely slow you down.

Cala Figuera & the Lighthouse at Cap de Formentor

Cala Figuera is a beautiful inlet on the North side of Mallorca with a teeny tiny beach. The views from the road above looking out over the green-blue water are something to see.

Along the same road you’ll head towards Cap de Formentor, which finishes at the coast with a beautiful Lighthouse.

The Beach in Alcudia

Alcudia is a great base for your visit to Mallorca. It has plenty of bars and restaurants, and a massive beach for lounging in the sun. This is the low-key side of the island!

Relax in Pollença

You’ll find this cute little town is on many must-see lists. The buildings lining the narrow roads are all in a similar medieval style, and everything directs you back to the main square and the Church of Santa Maria dels Angels. It’s great for a coffee and watching the world go by.

Drive through the Mountains

Get your car on to the Ma-10 and see what kind of landscape Mallorca has to offer! There are a few rest stops and viewpoints along the way where you’ll see people stopping to take photos. Don’t be overwhelmed by the number of cyclists, you’ll likely see more on this road than cars!

Visit Fornalutx

Spend some time in Mallorca’s most beautiful village! This place is built into the hills, full of little steps and greenery. They don’t make you pay for parking between 1-5pm so you can enjoy your lunch — how lovely is that? We had a nice snack in Plaça d’Espanya, wandered through the village, and left with a bag full of ensaïmadas, the local delicacy.

Looking for more relaxing ways to see Spain? Here’s how I like to visit Barcelona.

And here’s me looking pretty pleased with myself..

 

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