Mallorca is a haven for the senses. Even in winter. As well as sun, golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the largest of the Balearic Islands has so much to offer and discover. Its mild and pleasant climate makes the island the perfect place to lose yourself all year round.
Take note, you’ll be amazed by the wide array of possibilities offered by Mallorca in winter!
DISCOVER THE CENTRE OF PALMA DE MALLORCA
Many of the city’s main tourist attractions can be found in Palma’s old town. Whether you are strolling around or taking a nice gentle bike ride, exploring the narrow streets of the city centre is always a good option, admiring its impressive monuments, and, while you’re there, why not treat yourself in one of the island’s exclusive boutiques?
The best time to get to know the island’s most charming spots is undoubtedly after the summer is over. From October onwards, the island returns to the peaceful way of life it offers throughout the rest of the year, and sunny days and mild temperatures are ideal to stroll around the city without rushing and without the crowds. La Seu, La Lonja, the Almudaina Royal Palace, and Bellver Castle are just a few of the treats on offer if you decide to travel to Mallorca in the winter.
THE MOST CHARMING TOWNS AND VILLAGES ON THE ISLAND
There are many charming historic towns and villages located further inland on Mallorca, which are well worth a visit. Where do you start?
Just half an hour from Mallorca’s capital is Valldemossa, one of the most stunning medieval towns you will find anywhere on the island. One of Valldemossa’s most characteristic features are its steep cobbled streets and houses decorated with flowers in all different colours. You should not miss out on the opportunity to visit Real Cartuja, the home of Chopin and his wife George Sand during the last years of the pianist’s life. And you can’t leave without sampling one of the town’s most typical dishes, the ‘coca de patata’, a sweet roll made using potatoes Try it and let us know what you think!
Deià is another great place to visit in winter. Here you will find the best of both worlds: sea and mountain views. Famous for being the home of writer Robert Graves, the unparalleled beauty of Deià remains to this day a source of inspiration for artists and intellectuals from all over the world.
Between the villages of Valldemossa and Deià, it’s worth stopping to visit the Miramar Monastery and Son Marroig. Enjoy the stunning views offered by the Mirador de Sa Foradada, one of the best viewing points on the island to admire the sunset.
If you carry on heading north, you will find Sóller, a town in the Serra de Tramuntana whose port in its day was a meeting point between Catalan (Barcelona) and French trade. Sóller is located in a valley lined with orange and citrus fruit trees and can be reached by car or by rail from the capital of Mallorca. Hop on the train at Sóller and take a trip back in time to enjoy the captivating scenery of the Serra de Tramuntana.
What to do when you arrive. Perhaps winter is not the best time to enjoy genuine ice cream from Sóller, but you can certainly sample some of the other local delicacies such as jams, pâtés, comfitures, and various preserves.
Don’ miss the Saturday market where you can find some genuine collector’s items. Throughout the rest of the week, you can contemplate the town’s modernist buildings and visit the Church of San Bartolomeu, the Botanical Garden or the Balearic Museum of Natural Sciences.
Read our post about the beautiful villages of Mallorca.
THE BEST LOCAL FESTIVITIES ARE IN WINTER
Yep, you read that right. We might have put the Christmas decorations away, but in Mallorca the celebrations don’t stop there. In January, locals celebrate some of the most important traditions that take place throughout the year.
From 10 to 25 January, Palma pays homage to Sant Sebastià, the patron saint of the city. At this special time of year, the capital offers a full programme of concerts and cultural events for the whole family. In addition, its streets and squares are lined with bonfires where you can cook any food you fancy.
On 16 and 17 January, the entire island celebrates the festivity of Sant Antoni, the patron saint of animals. Especially in rural areas, islanders flock to church to have their pets blessed. You will also find plenty of foguerons (bonfires), where, as well as cooking longaniza and botifarron sausages, islanders also burn their bad memories.
HIKING IN MALLORCA
The Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a place of pilgrimage for keen hikers. And winter is the best time to grab your hiking books out of the wardrobe. The often intense summer heat is not the best time to hike around the mountains, and it’s a better idea
There is an endless number of routes and footpaths of varying difficulty, which you can explore on Mallorca’s many sunny winter days. And also on colder days! When the snow puts in an appearance, the Serra de Tramuntana offers picture postcard perfection.
We warned you: Mallorca is not all about sand and salt. Come and discover the more authentic flavour of the island by staying this winter in our Boutique Hotel Palma de Mallorca Posada Terra Santa, in the heart of Palma de Mallorca.
End the day in our Spa in the center of Palma.
We look forward to welcoming you with open arms!
