Mallorca

The largest of the four main Balearics is packed with safe sandy beaches and stunning scenery. Fun on or by the water includes sailing, paragliding, water-skiing, bodysurfing, and glass-bottomed boat rides.

Mallorca’s historic capital Palma is easy to explore on foot, it’s a maze of narrow streets and alleyways. There are some beautiful squares where you can sit and relax, enjoying tapas and a glass of wine.

Daily flights from Bournemouth make it easy to visit for a short break or a longer stay.

I recently stayed for four nights in Playa de Palma, just four kilometres from the centre of Palma. It’s an ideal base to spend time on the beach or to visit the historic city. There is a good choice of hotels in Playa de Palma, I visited the Iberostar Cristina (4 star ) and the Iberostar Playa de Palma (5 star)

If you prefer to stay in the city, there is a selection of stunning boutique hotels in the centre of Palma, some with rooftop pools and terraces.

A popular day trip from Palma is to take the historic train to Soller or if you take a local bus you can visit Portal Nous, a seaside resort in the popular district of Calvia. It has an adjoining marina that harbours some impressive yachts in the summer months.

Ikos Resorts

Opening in 2023 as the first Ikos resort on this ever-popular island, this sleek and sparkling property will sit on one of Majorca’s bestpreserved sites, beside both Mondrago Natural Park and the cosmopolitan Porto Petro Marina. Tucked away between two stunning beaches, the Calo dels Homes Morts and the Calo de Sa Torre, it will boast divine Mediterranean views, an exclusive Spa by Anne Semonin and an extensive gourmet offering embracing five à la carte restaurants, with menus by

Michelin-starred chefs, and a brand-new Food Market concept which serves buffet breakfasts and international cuisine, as well as à la carte options for lunch and dinner.

Rooms and suites at the Ikos Porto Petro will come with terraces and, in some cases, private pools, while the airy Mediterranean decor will be infused with Majorcan character. Some accommodation at the resort will be in the Deluxe Collection area, which guarantees the ultimate curated experience for guests, with exclusive services and premium benefits. These include a welcome bottle of Taittinger champagne on ice, an unpacking service, an upgraded minibar, a pillow menu, and the services of a Deluxe Concierge/ personal holiday planner to take care of everything from spa bookings and restaurant reservations to bespoke experiences such as romantic dinners on the beach.

To book or discuss future holiday plans contact me today.

SALLY PULLEN TRAVEL COUNSELLOR

T 01202 375150

M 07929626156

E sally.pullen@travelcounsellors.com

W www.travelcounsellors.com/sally.pullen

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VEGETABLES AND FRUITS