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TRAVELLERS’ NEEDS
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES The warm climate and diversity of the landscape on the Balearics make them an excellent place for all types of sport. The most popular of these are, of course, water sports and you will find windsurfing, sailing and diving are all well catered for. Those looking for an activity holiday of this kind will have the chance to practise their
Wind- and kite-surfers in Can Pastilla, on the west coast of Mallorca
Windsurfing The conditions for windsurfing are not as impressive here as they are in the Canary Islands because the local winds are not strong enough for advanced surfers. As a consequence, the Balearic Islands are not popular with professionals, but this makes them a very good place for beginners to pick up some of the basic techniques. Although the number of schools is rather limited, all of the islands have at least one school that teaches basic windsurfing and offers equipment hire. Surfing enthusiasts will also be able to find suitable spots in the Balearic Islands, but do not expect the “ultimate wave”.
favourite sports under professional supervision. Cycling, horse riding and golf are also popular in the islands and many travel bureaux and agents offer equipment hire, from yacht charter to bicycle rental. Some hotels also have their own facilities and can often hire out equipment.
competitor. The Trofeo Almirante Conde de Barcelona, held in August, features regattas with classic sailing boats. Almost every coastal town has its own marina and these are visited by yachts from all over Europe. Many vessels remain here for the winter. Of course, you do not have to own a yacht in order to cruise the Balearic Islands. Many firms offer sea-going vessels for charter. Smaller inshore catamarans can be rented by the hour on local beaches. You can also find many clubs or schools that are able to teach you the rudiments of sailing. The popularity of sailing is so great that during the high season the marinas tend to be very busy, even though the mooring charges are extremely high. Some boats moor in sheltered bays, accessible only by sea.
Fishing Despite the fact that the local waters teem with fish, fishing is
Sailing Sailing is the most popular water sport in the Balearic Islands. Major international regattas include the King’s Cup and the Princesa Sofia Trophy held in Mallorca. These are highprofile events and attract many of the world’s leading sailors; King Juan Carlos was a frequent
Catamarans on Es Pujols beach in Formentera
not a popular sport here. A few agents organize trips, however. Further information is available from the Asociación Balear de Pesca or from the Club Nautics.
Beach Activities During the high season, beaches employ lifeguards so it is safer to bathe and swim. Most beaches are sandy and situated in small bays. Sailing yachts and fishing boats sometimes anchor at the mouth of the bay and these are only a hazard if you swim out too close to them. The beaches can be busy and are sometimes short of space for beach sports. Nevertheless, a few of them have areas designated for volleyball, and even on busy beaches you can still find space to kick a ball around or play frisbee.
Diving and Snorkelling The clear, clean coastal seawaters, combined with the diversity of underwater flora
