by Martin Finch

Created on: January 29, 2009

Mallorca is the largest island in the Balearics. It has an excellent road and rail network making it easy and quick to get to all parts of island.

The sandy beaches and Mediterranean climate are what attract most people to Majorca but it has much more to offer the adventurous tourist. There is a dramatic mountain range, a scenic antique railway line from the picturesque town of Soller to the capital, Palma plus the historic northern coastal town of Alcudia. Exploring Majorca beyond the beaches brings rich rewards and opens up a new dimension to this holiday island.

An Ancient Language

Mallorca has its own language, Mallorquin, which was banned during the reign of King Felipe and later by Franco but was kept alive in the villages of Mallorca and its use is now actively promoted by the autonomous government of the Balearics.

The Historic Town of Alcudia

There is plenty of history on offer in the capital, Palma and also in the north where Alcudia has Roman, Byzantine and Moorish influences. Just south east of Alcudia there is an area of wetlands with a unique micro climate. The government has designated it a protected area where no cars are allowed and visitors have to report to a reception area before exploring this natural environment.

Alcudia old town itself is beautifully preserved and surrounded by ancient city walls. The magnificent church of Sant Jaume dominates the town and the Roman ruins re-enforce Alcudia's historical heritage.

The Road to Soller

A mountain range runs down the whole of the west side of Mallorca with Puig Major the highest peak at 1445 metres. The road to Soller offers spectacular views as it wends its tortuous way up and around the mountains. There are many vantage points to take in the stunning mountain and coastal vistas.

Eventually the road straightens and descends into the town of Soller which nestles in a beautiful, lush green valley about 5kms from the coast and Port Soller.

By Train from Soller to Palma

The famous tourist train runs from Soller's station to Palma. The train is pulled by an electric power unit but that is the only concession to the modern world. The carriages are ancient and wooden and rattle and clank as the train climbs slowly and painfully out of Soller and through tightly packed orange and lemon groves which occasionally part to offer views of the town below.

Back in Soller, trams packed with visitors can be seen scattering cars and pedestrians alike as they clatter through the busy streets heading for Port Soller.

A Glimpse of Michael Douglas?

Leaving Soller the road continues down the coast to the pretty town of Dei with its stone houses perched precariously on the hillside and then on the Valldemossa where Michael Douglas is reputed to own a home. Valldemossa is another beautifully preserved old town which is now lined with quaint, and expensive, tourist shops.

The City of Palma

Palma is the only city and the capital of the Balearics. The Cathedral commands a position high above the harbour and is a must see sight.

Port de Pollenca and Cala Ratjada

The charming seaside resort of Port de Pollenca, which has a lovely, sheltered sandy beach contrasts with theless than charming resort of Cala Ratjada, which appears tired, run down and neglected.

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