Category: Ideas

Category: Ideas

Cala Deia

Cala Deia Beach

Cala Deia – updated 23 January 2023.

Cala Deia, located on the northwest coast of Majorca, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a peaceful and secluded getaway. The small bay is surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.

Rocky beach

The beach is not considered to be family-friendly due to the rocky, shingle beach and lack of sand; it also has multiple jellyfish sightings during the summer months. The beach also has no umbrellas, lounge chairs, water sports activities or lifeguard and access to first aid is minimal. The beach does have toilets and showers.

The tiny cove beach is mostly made up of large rocks and small pebbles with glistening rock pools and great views.

Restaurants

 It has two restaurants, which both provide local cuisine such as tapas, paella and an assortment of fish.

Artists

Located just outside the beautiful village of Deià, the beach is very popular with locals and visitors and is a favourite destination for artists. It is not unusual to see the occasional celebrity on the beach.

Swimming, snorkelling & diving

Cala Deia is an ideal location for swimming, snorkelling and diving due to the crystal-clear waters; however, there are no equipment rental facilities on the beach so you will need to bring your own.

Climbing, hiking & cycling

The surrounding cliffs are popular with climbers and hikers, offering stunning views of the bay and the surrounding countryside. The area is also popular with cyclists and mountain bikers, with a number of trails and routes to explore.

Getting there

You can get to the beach by car and if you arrive early enough, there is a small car park or you could park in the village and walk, it is around 3 km.

Deia

The village of Deia, located above the bay, is also worth a visit. The small village is home to a number of traditional restaurants and bars, serving local food and drink. Visitors can also explore the local history and culture by visiting the local church or the artists' houses that dot the village. One of the prettiest villages in Mallorca, Deia is part of a landscape awarded World Heritage Site status. The writer Robert Graves famously lived in the village twice with many of his creative, artistic friends coming to visit and Deia quickly gained a reputation as an artist’s retreat.

Deia

Northwest coast

Cala Deia is also a great base for exploring the rest of the northwest coast of Majorca, with a number of other beaches and villages within easy reach. Cala Tuent, Cala Soller and Fornalutx are just a few of the many nearby places worth visiting.

Tours & experiences

Western Water Park

Western Water Park, Magaluf

Western Water Park – updated 23 January 2023.

Welcome to Western Water Park in Magaluf. Nestled in the heart of Majorca, the water park offers a wide variety of fun and exciting activities for visitors of all ages. Western Water Park is a fun family-friendly day out full of rides, slides, thrills & spills. Designed to entertain both children and adults, the slides range from small and fun to really high and terrifying!

The Beast

The park includes the 11th highest water slide in the world aptly named The Beast, there’s also a further six rides designed specifically for adrenaline junkies such as The Whip, Tornado and Boomerang.

For younger adults and the less adventurous, there are moderate rides, Grand Canyon and Hurricane are popular so is the Tam Tam Splash wave pool.

3 sections

There’s something for everyone at Western Water Park, which is divided into three different sections called Western Land, Indian Town and El Paso.

You’ll find swimming pools and water fountains, which are perfect for toddlers, lots of places to grab something to eat including a pizzeria and an ice-cream shop plus if you want to bring along your own food, there are designated picnic spots within the park.

Diving show

Western Water Park is unique from the other two parks on the island due to its diving show, which occurs three times a day and is really fun. You get synchronised diving, high diving and diving whilst set on fire.

Opening times & tickets

For 2023, the park opens on 6th April.

The park is open each day from 10am to 5pm (April, May, June and September) and 10am to 6pm (July and August).

The ticket prices range according to age and there are discount packages available.

Visit the Western Water Park website.

Western Water Park Entrance with transfer

Other water parks on the island are Aqualand El Arenal and Hidropark Alcúdia.

Both of these parks provide excellent facilities and a fun-family day out.

Magaluf

Magaluf is a popular holiday destination known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife and year-round sunshine, Magaluf attracts tourists from all over the world. The town offers a range of activities, from water sports and golfing, to shopping and dining. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Magaluf has something for everyone.

Majorca car rental

The Caves of Drach

Drach Caves

The Caves of Drach – updated 24 January 2023.

The Caves of Drach, also known as the “Dragon Caves”, are a unique and spectacular natural wonder located in the eastern coast of Majorca. The caves boast a series of underground chambers filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, as well as an underground lake where visitors can take a boat ride. The highlight of the tour is a chamber called “The White Cave”, where a classical music concert is held every day. The caves are also home to a wide variety of bats, which can be observed during the guided tour. The Caves of Drach are a must-see for anyone visiting Majorca. The natural beauty and the unique experience of visiting the caves will leave an unforgettable impression. Don't miss the chance to explore the underground world of the Caves of Drach on your next trip to the island.

Caves of Drach

8th Wonder of the World

One of the largest caves in Europe and located in Mallorca, the caves are considered by many to be the 8th Wonder of the World.

Lake Martel

Within the caves is Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes on the planet; which today plays host to a boat-borne classical music program; which attracts visitors from far and wide. The lake is named after French geologist Edouard Martel who first mapped the cave in 1896.

The Caves Of Drach

Porto Cristo

The caves are located on the east coast of the island within walking distance of the small town of Porto Cristo and they are extremely popular so do expect the inevitable crowd. The tour of the caves covers around 1.2km and due to the number of visitors, takes place at a very slow pace. You will be led through the many chambers accompanied by a multilingual commentary, which finishes at a vast amphitheatre and Lake Martel.

Stalactites and stalagmites

The chambers are jaw-dropping beautiful and very cleverly lit in a multitude of bright colours designed to enhance dimensions and highlight the impressive stalactites and stalagmites which adorn each chamber. There is also an underground river. It feels at times like you have been transported to a different world.

The Caves Of Drach

The tour

During your tour, you will go about 25 metres deep, which results in the caves having 80% humidity and a temperature of around 21°C.

The duration of each tour is one hour. The opportunity does exist to take a short boat ride on the lake at the end of the concert.

If you are driving to the caves, there is free parking and also picnic areas. You’ll also find a café and a souvenir shop plus free WIFI.

The caves are open all year round, offering four daily excursions during winter increasing to seven for the summer months.

Caves of Drach Tours & Experiences

Drach Caves, Pearl Factory & Local Market Tour

Drach Caves, Pearl Factory and Local Market Tour

There's a trio of Majorca's must-sees on this tour. You'll visit the island's Majorica Pearl Factory, stroll the stalls of Sant Llorenç farmer's market, then delve into the depths of the famous Drach Caves – a world of secretive caverns and subterranean lakes brought to life by music and light shows.

Your first stop will be the Majorica factory, where possibly the finest imitation pearls in the world are made. See the manufacturing process before browsing pearl jewellery in the on-site shop. It's then on to the weekly market in Sant Llorenç. Browse stalls stocked with everything from souvenirs to aromatic herbs and pungent cheeses. It's a great place to try local food, like Majorca's famous black-pig pork.

The Drach Caves are next. There are four caves and one large lake, made all the more magical by the specially designed lighting system and a classical music concert from a quartet right in the very depths of the caves – Book now

Caves of Drach Half-Day Tour with Boat Trip and Music Concert

Full Day Tour to Caves of Drach and Hams with Porto Cristo and Pearl Factory

Mallorca Day Trip to Majorica Pearl Shop and Caves of Drach

BEWARE: There are TWO cave attractions in Porto Cristo. Cuevas dels Hams is much smaller than then the Caves of Drach and contrary to some of their advertising, they do not have a boat ride or concert. Their tickets are also much more expensive than the Drach caves. Many of the road signs around Porto Cristo are misleading and it is easy to think you are being directed to the Caves of Drach.

Majorca car rental

Inca Market

Inca Weekly Market

Inca Market – updated 24 January 2023.

Inca Market in Majorca is one of the island's most popular and vibrant destinations for shopping and cultural exploration. The market, which takes place every Thursday in the charming town of Inca, is a true feast for the senses, with a wide variety of local vendors selling everything from traditional handcrafted goods to delicious food and drink. Whether you're looking for souvenirs to bring back home or just want to soak up the lively atmosphere, the Inca Market is a must-visit for anyone visiting Majorca. So come and explore the colourful stalls, haggle with the friendly vendors and discover the rich culture of this beautiful island.

Inca Market

Inca

Inca is the third largest town in Mallorca and is located in the heart of the island. Inca is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and charming streets lined with shops and restaurants. The town is particularly famous for its leather goods, with many workshops and factories producing high-quality leather products. Visitors can also explore the town's many churches and museums, or simply stroll through the picturesque streets and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.

Inca is mostly a residential town, full of native Mallorcans living alongside a small expat community and has excellent public transport links with the rest of the island.

You will find Inca on the main road from Palma to Alcúdia if you are driving. By train, there are direct connections from Palma, Sa Pobla and Manacor.

Quely biscuits & Ensaimada

They say that the best way to get to know the island is through its traditions and local products, if that’s the case then Inca is all about the market, leather, wine, Quely biscuits and some of the best Ensaimada on the island.

Inca Market

Leather Factory Store

A combined visit to Inca market and the old Leather Factory store is recommended to make the most of your visit inland.

Camper

The brand 'Camper' famous for footwear began life in Inca and you can visit the Camper Outlet Village and Factory when you are there. You’ll find lots of bargains in a wide range of styles for men, women and children.

Inca Market

Colourful & vibrant

The market is the biggest open-air market in Mallorca and is held on the streets in the town centre from 8am to 1pm. It’s a colourful, vibrant and lively experience with hundreds of stalls and to make the most of it, you should put aside a few hours of your time.

Local crafts

There’s an abundance of leather goods for sale ranging from jackets to bags to shoes; however, there is also a wide variety of other products for sale such as local crafts, textiles and fruit & vegetables.

Don't forget to haggle

Prices on the stalls are set; however, the traders love to haggle, there’s some great deals to be made especially if you get there early in the morning.

Day trip

Whether you're looking for a day trip or planning to stay longer, Inca is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Majorca. Come and discover the rich culture and history of this beautiful town, and experience the true essence of the island.

Tours

Inca Market Mallorca Half Day Tour

Don’t waste valuable time navigating public transport to get to Inca for market day; instead, travel there comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle and combine souvenir shopping and culture during this half-day, hassle-free excursion. In Inca, the Mallorcan town known for leather products, wine, and the island’s biggest open-air market, take part in a tapas, wine, and liquor tasting, before enjoying free time to roam the stalls.

Majorca car rental

Cala Llombards

Cala Llombards Beach

Cala Llombards – updated 23 January 2023.

Cala Llombards beach is a hidden gem located on the southern coast of Majorca. Known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, Cala Llombards beach is the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxing and peaceful beach break. With a variety of water sports available, such as snorkelling and paddle-boarding, as well as a range of local restaurants and bars, Cala Llombards beach offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or explore the surrounding area, Cala Llombards is the ideal spot for a day on the beach.

Cala Llombards

Picture-postcard setting

The beach is located in a beautiful petite cove with turquoise waters defined by rough, red rock walls and framed with pine trees.

Es Llombards

The secluded cove beach is located in the southeast of the island close to the small village of Es Llombards and around 10km from the handsome inland town of Santyani.

Cala Llombards

Snorkelling

Just 55m long but nearly 150m deep, Cala Llombards is not a big beach, but it is truly beautiful. It is surrounded by steep cliffs and has rocky areas, pine trees and bushes plus soft white sand and really crystal-clear water, which is ideal for snorkelling.

Off the beaten path

With the exception of those who live or rent in the surrounding area, the beach is not well-known and therefore it escapes the tourist crowds.

Cala Llombards

Family friendly

It is a safe beach for kids because there are very few waves and is popular with locals and tourists of all ages. There is a lifeguard present during the summer months.

Facilities

Facilities include lounge chairs and parasols plus showers and toilets; however, there are no water activities for hire.

Beach bar

You’ll find just one beach bar at Cala Llombards; which serves drinks and snacks.

Cala Llombards

Santyani

When you’ve packed up from the beach, we recommend a trip to the local town of Santyani, it’s a handsome town in southeast Mallorca. Both serene and historic, it is located between Parc Natural de Mondragó and Ses Salines and the honey-coloured architecture, fine choice of bars, boutique shops, art galleries & restaurants are a massive draw to tourists.

Particularly favoured by German tourists, this pretty, rural, authentically Mallorcan town is blessed with beautiful natural surroundings.

With a slow pace of life, quaint cobbled streets and majestic church, Santyani has a special quality. Sit down on one of the many terraces on the main square (Plaça Major) in front of the church and watch the world go by.

Out on the water experiences

Katmandu Park

Katmandu Park, Magaluf

Katmandu Park – updated 24 January 2023.

There is only one theme park in Mallorca, and it goes by the name of Katmandu Park. It's a fun place, a little wacky and a little bizarre and not very big; however, it has enough to keep you entertained for 4 to 6 hours. Located in Magaluf, the park contains mind-blowing attractions, water park thrills & games plus an on-site hotel, Sol Katmandu Park complete with a giant yeti scaling the outside of the building.

Katmandu Park

Yeti

The on-site resort hotel is themed around The Legend of Katmandu™ – a mythical story featuring a Great Yeti who guards the powerful Red Jewel, Desirata™ – it's a lot of fun and includes hotel employees wearing Steampunk costumes and check in at a whimsical, time-travelling tram.

Katmandu Park

Katmandu Play Pass

There are some benefits for families who stay at the hotel, which include a free Sol Katmandu Play pass worth €200 per day for a family of four, it gets you into the park until 6pm daily with options to upgrade to a gold pass, which includes night-time entry.

10+ Attractions

You’ll find 10+ attractions at the park including an upside-down Tibetan house where you can journey through time and imagination, the undersea world of KATOPIA Splash Park and KATOPIA Soft Play Adventure, the Desperados Theater where you can saddle up for a galloping blast in a Wild West shoot-out!, or if you prefer, you can take on the living dead in the ZOMBIES! XD Dark Ride.

Mind-blowing adventures

Step into a mythical world of unexpected adventure, exciting rides, epic 4D encounters and splash park chills! From enchanting family fun to mind-blowing adventures for thrill seekers-everyone finds endless freedom to play with flexible ticketing options.

Snack Shack

If you are feeling peckish, the Snack Shack in the centre of the park serves hot dogs, chicken nuggets, fries, hamburgers, cold drinks including alcohol plus tea and fresh coffee.

The park is usually open until 10pm, obviously being Magaluf, it can get quite boisterous in the evening so if you are with children, the best time to visit is during the day.

Magaluf

Magaluf is a popular resort town, known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and clear blue waters, Magaluf attracts thousands of tourists each year. The town offers a wide range of activities, including water sports, golfing, and hiking in the nearby mountains. Visitors can also explore the local shops and markets, or take a day trip to the nearby capital city of Palma. With its warm Mediterranean climate and endless sunshine, Magaluf is the perfect destination for those looking for a fun-filled and relaxing vacation. Whether you're a party-goer or a nature lover, Magaluf has something to offer everyone.

Visit the official Katmandu Park website.

Further information about Nightlife in Magaluf.

Majorca car rental

Royal Palace of La Almudaina

La Almudaina

Royal Palace of La Almudaina – updated 23 January 2023.

The Royal Palace of La Almudaina is a magnificent fortress located in the heart of Palma, the capital of Majorca. Originally built as an Arab fortress in the 13th century, the palace has been expanded and renovated over the centuries and now serves as a royal residence. Visitors can explore the palace's impressive courtyards, grand halls, and opulent bedrooms.

The palace also boasts beautiful gardens, which offer panoramic views of the city and the sea. Inside, you can admire the richly decorated interiors, including the throne room, the chapel and the impressive collection of tapestries and ceramics. The palace is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in the island's rich cultural heritage. Don't miss the chance to step back in time and explore this grand palace on your next trip to Majorca.

Royal Palace La Almudaina

Roman Fort

A long time before the Moors arrived in the 10th century, the site had been utilised by both the Talaiots and the Romans and the area was once home to a Roman fort.

King of Spain

Symbolically, the King of Spain still resides here; however, it is unlikely that you will see him there with the exception of an occasional important ceremony, the Royals prefer to spend summer in the Palau Marivent (in Cala Major) instead. In fact, since King Jaume III died in 1349, no king has lived in La Almudaina on a permanent basis.

Balearics military command

Remodelled in the Levantine Gothic style by the Christians, The Royal Palace of La Almudaina is located opposite the magnificent Palma Cathedral, La Seu. Its elevated position has provided the palace with protection and strategic importance over the years and the building still serves as the Balearics military command.

Scenic views

Today, the palace is one of the capital's main attractions and tourists can enjoy incredible, scenic views overlooking the Bay of Palma in addition to exploring the inside of the palace and its numerous rooms.

Interior

Whilst exploring the interior of the palace, you will find three grand rooms with bricked-in-Gothic arches that have been cut off in the middle, they were once double their height and would have formed a vast hall. These rooms have been luxuriously decorated and furnished with period pieces and tapestries.

Courtyard

Within the main courtyard, you will find the 11th century lion fountain and the entrance to St Anne’s Chapel. This Chapel was built for the Queen at the beginning of the 14th century, as was St. James’s Chapel, which was for the use of the King.

Royal apartments

The grand staircase takes you up to the royal apartments with beautiful timber ceilings and lavishly appointed rooms, which are worth seeing as many of the palace rooms are completely bare.

Joan Miro

Beneath the palace are the S'Hort del Rei gardens which are a great place to sit, relax and watch the world go by. Look out for Joan Miro's Egg sculpture and the Arc de la Drassana, once the gateway to the royal docks.

Getting there

If you are staying in Palma, it's a short walk or public bus ride to the Royal Palace. There are also plenty parking spaces in front of the Cathedral along the Paseo Marítimo.

The palace is open from 10am – 4pm Tuesday to Friday (closed on Monday) and 10am – 6pm on weekends and public holidays.

Visitors can explore the grand rooms and apartments, and the chapel, at their leisure. See the opulent art, tapestries and furniture, then wander through the tranquil gardens.

BOOK TICKETS NOW

Free entrance: Wednesday all day and Sunday from 3pm to 6pm.

Further information can be found on the official website – patrimonionacional.es

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Things to do in Palma

Hidropark Alcudia

Hidropark Water Park Alcudia

Hidropark Alcudia – updated 23 January 2023.

Hidropark Alcudia is a water park located in the popular resort town of Alcudia on the island of Majorca. It offers a wide range of fun and exciting activities for visitors of all ages, from thrilling water slides and rides to more relaxed options like lazy rivers and swimming pools. The park has a variety of slides and attractions that cater to different thrill levels, from the kamikaze slides for the brave to the gentle and fun family slides.

Facilities

The park also features a wide range of facilities, including changing rooms, lockers, toilets, showers, and a restaurant and bar. With its lively atmosphere and wide range of activities, Hidropark Alcudia is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day out with family and friends, and is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the area.

Alcudia

Port d'Alcudia

Hidropark Alcudia is the only water park in the north of the island and is located close to the beach and city centre in Port d'Alcudia and 1km away from the medieval walled town of Alcúdia.

Ideal for families

The park is ideal for families and smaller children. It is also quite large with a good variety of water attractions spread over 40,000 square metres.

Hidropark Alcudia

Fun for all of the family

You’ll find numerous rides, slides, pools, chill-out areas and even a children’s playground plus an infant area – there's something to keep everybody entertained at Hidropark Alcudia.

Waterslides

The waterslides are the main draw for visitors to the park and include Kamikaze rides, parallel slides, foam slides, multi-slides and spirals but there’s also plenty to do for the less adventurous such as the wave pool, waterfalls, fountains, shallow splash pools and climbing frames. Add to the list, bouncy castles & trampolines and it is easy to see that Hidropark Alcudia could keep a family entertained for the whole day.

Hidropark Alcudia

Mini golf

Just in case you run out of things to do, there is also a 54-hole mini golf course to try and paintball too!

The park does not allow visitors to bring their own picnic; however, there are fast food places and bars on-site.

Hidropark Alcudia

The park is open each day from 1 May to 30 October from 10am to 5pm, during July and August, it stays open until 6pm.

Alcúdia

After you've finished at the water park and if time permits, consider taking a short drive to Alcúdia. Surrounded by mighty walls that contain historic mansions, scenic plazas, cafés with beautiful terraces & warm-stone houses, this vibrant town is a year-round destination, providing a rich taste of history and culture.

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Aqualand El Arenal Water Park

Aqualand El Arenal

Aqualand – updated 23 January 2023.

Aqualand El Arenal is a water park located in the town of El Arenal on the island of Majorca, Spain. The park features a variety of water rides, including slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There are also areas designated for children, as well as a number of restaurants and shops on the premises. Aqualand El Arenal is a popular attraction for visitors to Majorca, particularly during the summer months.

Aqualand

Rides

Aqualand El Arenal features a variety of water rides and attractions that are suitable for visitors of all ages, including water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and more. Some of the rides that are typically found at water parks include high-speed slides, tube slides, family raft rides, and interactive play areas for young children.

Congo River

For those just looking for a quiet and relaxing time, there are plenty of areas to sunbathe or swim. Try a float down the lazy Congo River or check out Dragonland for a swim near a giant dragon. Aqualand El Arenal is much prettier than the other water parks in Mallorca with plenty of tree-shaded lawned areas where you can relax, cool down, have an ice-cream and watch the world go by.

Aqualand

Children’s Paradise

Aqualand Arenal is one of the island’s largest waterparks and it caters for all ages. Kids can enjoy Children’s Paradise or Polynesia, which are fun, colourful and child-friendly pools with waterslides or opt for one of the other four themed areas such as Adventureland and Dragonland.

Tsunami & Anaconda

Adrenaline junkies have a superb choice of rides & slides to keep them happy. Try Tsunami, a 15m high half pipe with two vertigo slides or challenge your friends or family to a race down Anaconda’s twists and turns. If those rides don’t hit the mark.

Aqualand

Other rides

  • King Cobra: A multi-lane water slide that allows visitors to race against each other.

  • Fórmula Race: A water slide that simulates the experience of driving a race car.

  • Tornado: A water slide that takes visitors through a series of twists and turns.

  • Kamikaze: A high-speed water slide that drops visitors into a pool at the bottom.

  • The Devil’s Tail: A water slide that features a steep drop and tight turns.

  • Banzai: A water slide that features a steep drop and tight turns.

  • Harikiri & Black Hole: Brand new rides.

Gift shop

After all of the thrills & spills and you’re ready for a break, there are few cafes to choose from or you can check out the gift shop for a souvenir or two.

Aqualand El Arenal can be crowded, so we recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot.

See other water parks in Majorca.

Aqualand Waterpark Tickets

What to expect when you buy these tickets

Aqualand Arenal is the biggest water park in Mallorca, with an exciting range of water slides and attractions to delight every member of the family. Take a day trip, with pick-up from your hotel, and relax in the family-friendly ambiance of Aqualand Arenal.

You will be collected from your hotel in the morning and be transported by deluxe air-conditioned coach to the waterpark. Your expert local guide will get you in the mood for the day ahead with information, facts, and tips regarding the slides and attractions that Aqualand Arenal has to offer.

Upon arrival, test your dare on the rapids, discover the Black Hole, or get to grips with the brand-new Harikiri, Banzai, and Kamikaze slides. There is something in store for every member of the family whether it be the wave pool, sun loungers, the café, or one of the many water slides.

For smaller children, there are many specialty areas such as Dragonland and The Polynesia. Aqualand Arenal prides itself on being a family-friendly establishment and is a great place for small children to play safely.

Majorca car rental

Bellver Castle

Bellver Castle, Palma

Bellver Castle – updated 23 January 2023.

Bellver Castle is a 14th century Gothic-style castle located in the city of Palma on the island of Majorca, Spain. Built by King James II of Mallorca, it is one of the few circular castles in Europe and offers stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The castle has a rich history, having served as a royal residence, a prison, and a military academy. Today, it is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction, offering guided tours, cultural events and exhibitions. With its unique architecture and panoramic views, Bellver Castle is a must-see for any visitor to Palma.

Bellver Castle Palma

Round Castle

Surrounded by fragrant pine woods, the castle is unique in design and is Spain’s only round castle. Now a renowned Palma landmark located at the top of the hill Puig de Sa Mesquida, the former grand fortress and Catalan Gothic masterpiece attracts visitors by the hundreds who come to admire the architecture, the views and visit the interesting ground-floor museum.

Pere Salva

King Jaume II gave the order for Bellver Castle to be built back in 1300 and the job was given to Pere Salva, the architect who designed the Almudaina Palace (The Royal Palace).

Bellver Castle Mallorca

Three towers

Bellver has three large towers surrounding a two-level central courtyard and a moat. You’ll see a contrast of architectural design as you explore the castle ranging from Gothic arches to rib-vaulting to semi-circular arches. The best way to see these contrasts is to look down at the courtyard from the roof.

Royal Residence

The castle was built to serve as a royal residence; however, with the exception of residencies by King Sanç and Joan I of Aragon, the building has spent more time as a prison than a home. Bellver Castle has hosted many prisoners over the years including King Jaume IV & King Jaume III’s widow and sons and has been used as a penal institution during both the Napoleonic and Spanish Civil wars and World War II. If you visit the roof of the castle, you can see prisoners’ graffiti, carved into the stonework.

Museum

On the ground floor is Palma’s museum of municipal history (Museu d’Història de la Ciutat) which follows the development of the city from the prehistoric Talayotic civilisation to the present day via its artefacts including pottery from Talaiotic, Roman, Arab and Spanish periods and classical statues from the Despuig Collection.

Classical music concerts

The central courtyard is the stage for a series of classical music concerts performed by the Balearic Symphony Orchestra each July. These open-air evening concerts are very popular.

Getting there

The best way to get to Bellver Castle is via car, there is parking available, alternatively combine your visit with the Palma City Sightseeing open-top bus, which stops at the castle as part of its circuit. If you use public transport, then the closest you will get is Plaça de Gomila, from there it is a 15 minute, 1km walk up a steep hill.

Majorca car rental