Balearic Islands
Holidays to the Balearics are a firm favourite with British travellers in search of the sun. The Balearic Islands are situated in the Mediterranean sea, between Spain and the north coast of Africa. The Islands of the Balearics are Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera.
Majorca
A holiday to Majorca really does have something for everyone. Holidays in the south west tend to appeal to holidaymakers looking for lots of action and nightlife, whereas other parts of the Island provide a more family orientated atmosphere.
While cheap, Majorca holidays are still in plentiful supply, the east coast now has more than fifty secluded coves and caters for the more ‘upmarket’ traveller. Palma Nova and Magaluf offer sun-kissed beaches and nightlife that is the toast of revellers from across the UK.
Some of Britain’s top DJs come to Magaluf for short stints during the peak season and these resorts becomes a whirlwind of sight and sound. However, it still has plenty to offer those taking family holidays; Marineland is a must for children or you could head off to the charming beachside hamlet of Sant Elm for a glimpse of more traditional life. Santa Ponsa is another exciting resort on the south west coast. Alcudia in the north of the island is a more relaxed affair and appeals to families and couples alike, with a long stretch of sandy beach, restaurants, shops, bars and a water park nearby.
Cala D’Or is a firm favourite, popular with families and couples, this resort is set around a series of scenic sandy coves. Calas De Mallorca is a quiet resort with a laid back atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a more relaxing getaway. A visit to Sa Dragonera Nature Reserve will bring you close to wild olive trees and dwarf palms, Eleanor’s falcon and the many varieties of Balearic lizard.
Menorca
Menorca has over a hundred beaches, each of them with their own character. Many are extremely child friendly, making them perfect for family holidays, but there are also secluded coves, and unspoilt resorts. Those taking well-earned holidays might want to consider the beach of Sant Luis; not only is it unspoilt and postcard-perfect, it has a long, protected bay that makes for very safe swimming.
Cala Galdana in the Ferreries region offers a beautiful pine fringed bay that has many facilities, such as bars and restaurants. This beach, known as the ‘Queen of the Calas’, is also excellent for water sports, such as sailing, diving and water skiing. Cala’n Bosch is another of the island’s major resorts, a family friendly and a seriously laid back holiday spot that has something for everyone. For those wanting to add a cultural edge to their Menorca holiday, the island has been described as a ‘living museum’.
A holiday here will introduce you to the remains of prehistoric civilizations in the form of imposing monoliths (taulas), prehistoric burial chambers (navetas) and stone age watchtowers (talyots) that appear all over the island. If architecture is more your style, consider a visit to the fortress at the end of Mahon arbour, La Mola. Not only is the craftsmanship awe-inspiring, but the battlements also provide stunning views of the east side of Menorca.
Ibiza
Ibiza has a reputation as being an island devoted to clubbers, the party scene is an integral part to some areas of Ibiza, where world class DJ’s and revellers meet to create some of the most famous events across the globe but, Ibiza is also an island rich in its own history and culture. With a holiday to Ibiza, there is something to suit everyone. Beaches, medieval castles, craft shops and superb restaurants offer an alternative to the party-scene and there are many resorts that provide a quieter holiday.
Playa d’en Bossa, San Antonio Bay and Cala Llonga are extremely child friendly and cater for families with younger children, with play parks, trampolines and climbing frames, some set on sandy beaches. Those looking for a secluded retreat could head to Portinatx on the very north east tip of the island, while Santa Eulalia offers a sophisticated marina some exceptional shopping. You might be interested in Ibiza’s history: Dalt Villa is a medieval castle and a UNESCO world heritage site it has a network of tunnels and passageways, as well as battlements that offer wonderful views of the island.
Whether you are a partygoer, or looking to relax on one of the many secluded beaches, a holiday to Ibiza is sure to have something to offer you.
