Family Island-Hopping Adventure in the Balearic Islands

While the Balearic Islands are well-known for their fabulous beaches and vibrant nightlife, their culture, which is often overlooked, is well worth delving into. We recommend taking today to immerse yourselves in Mallorca’s fascinating history and cultural heritage. The island features fruit plantations, centuries-old mills and tiny traditional villages, which you can discover using your hire car and GPS. You could also head back to Palma to admire a range of important sites, including the Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 13th century; the Saint François convent, home to the tomb of the great Mallorcal intellectual, Raymond Lully (1232-1325); and the Charterhouse of Valldemossa, which is famous for having housed George Sand, author of A Winter in Mallorca.

After a dose of culture yesterday, we recommend taking the next two days to soak in the beautiful natural landscapes of Mallorca. It goes without saying that the beaches here are very impressive, varying from long sandy stretches backed by lush vegetation to tiny coves at the foot of dramatic limestone cliffs. To the north of the city, former salt marshes have been converted into a protected natural area, where gulls, stilts and, of course, typical Mediterranean flora now flourish. We also recommend enjoying a long walk in Mondrago Park, a sweeping natural area home to the local agricultural production of almond, fig, barley and wheat. Enjoy your evenings relaxing in your cosy oasis tucked away in the hills or out soaking in the gentle liveliness that characterises Colonia de Sant Jordi. When you’re ready for a dose of culture, head to the picturesque town of Artà with a knowledgeable local guide. The old town is seriously beautiful – we’re talking narrow streets, pretty churches and stately homes. You can also head up to the fortress of Sant Salvador, which is perched at the very top of the village.

Today you’ll be switching things up, swapping Mallorca for the neighbouring island of Menorca. After a delicious breakfast at the hotel this morning, hop back into your hire car and head to the airport in Palma to catch a quick 45-minute flight to Mahón in the southwest of the island. On touchdown, collect a new hire car and head to your next hotel: a charming agricultural estate in the middle of the island, where you’ll be staying for the next three nights. The rest of today is yours to spend settling into your new home, so we recommend relaxing on the estate. Mum and dad can kick back and relax in the elegant loungers while the little ones splash around in the pool. You could also enjoy a stroll through the fragrant gardens and countryside on your doorstep, or drive to one of the many nearby beaches for an afternoon dip.

The final two days of your weeklong family adventure in the Balearic Islands are all about soaking in the scenic and cultural delights of Menorca, the little sister of Mallorca. On one of the days you’ll have the opportunity to discover the beautiful port of Mahón in the company of a knowledgeable local. The walk is relaxed and will be based around you, to ensure the children are kept engaged throughout. You can delve into the history of the port and surrounding area, head to some local shops and markets or wander down the seaside promenade – or a mix of all three. The rest of your time on the island is yours to spend at your own leisure. You can discover at your own pace or reach out to our local clued-up Concierge for tips and suggestions. Some of our favourite family-friendly things to do here include renting bikes and riding though the countryside; enjoying an evening barbecue on the beach; admiring the wildlife in the natural park of S'Albufera des Grau; strolling through the pretty streets of Ciutadella and visiting the Santa Maria Cathedral, the port, the lighthouse and the market; sampling the local cuisine, particularly the caldereta de langosta (a kind of lobster bouillabaisse) and charcuterie produced on the island; visiting traditional cheese-making farms; and taking a walk to the Naveta d'Es Tudons, an ancestral tomb in the shape of an overturned boat.