Posted on December 03, 2012 by sguese

The most popular of Spain’s Mediterranean islands, Majorca is also the largest of the Balearic Islands. With a coastline 500 kilometers long, Majorca has long attracted visitors to its famous golden sands. However there are other sides to this island, from the mountainous north to the fertile southern flatlands with olive and almond groves. One of the best ways to get to know Majorca comes while cruising around the island by car. Don’t miss these stop on any Majorcan road trip.

Palma de Majorca

Located on the southern tip of the island, Palma de Majorca is generally the first stop on any Majorca road trip. The Moors constructed the city in the style of a Kasbah as seen through its mazes of narrow alleys and cobblestone streets. Once one of the chief ports in the Mediterranean, Palma de Majorca is known today for its grand Cathedral. That Catalonian Gothic cathedral began in 1311 and was completed in 1601. It boasts a canopy by Gaudi. Visitors to Palma de Majorca also should check out the town’s 10^th century Banys Arabs and the 14^th century Castell de Bellver.

 

Sóller

One of Majorca’s most iconic experiences comes while ditching those rented wheels and taking the Tren de Sóller. Since 1912, the narrow-gauge train has traveled the 27.3 route from Palma to the northern town of Sóller. The ride lends views of Serra de Tramuntana. Once you arrive in Sóller, you should be sure to linger in the station for a while. The Station is home to galleries with works by Miró and Picasso.

 

Valldemossa

Another stop on a Majorca road trip around the island includes a visit to Valldemossa. The town is home to the Cartoixa Reial monastery. Founded in the 14^th century, the present structure hails from the 17^th and 18^th centuries. The monastery was abandoned in the late 18^th century and began putting up guests like Chopin. Valldemossa is also home to Palau de Rei Sancho, the Moorish retreat built by one of the island kings.

 

Port de Pollenca

A key stop on a road trip around Majorca is Port de Pollenca. Beach lovers will appreciate this town stop for Port de Pollenca boasts some of the island’s finest, whitest sand and clearest water. The town sits beside a sheltered bay and in between Cape Formentor and the Cape del Pinar. Just 65 kilometers by car hire in Majorca from Palma, the attractive beach town presents hotels, shops and restaurants to enjoy. Visitors should be sure to stroll Port de Pollenca’s pedestrian promenade along the bay.