Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
From Mallorca to Menorca Family Island-Hopping in the Balearics
Spain – Mallorca – Menorca
On both Mallorca and Menorca, you can spend your days lounging by the pool, taking leisurely strolls through the fragrant countryside and splashing around in azure waters. But there’s also so much to explore, whether you’d rather delve into culturally vibrant towns with a local guide and sample delicious regional specialities under the sun or rack up steep step counts hiking through diverse landscapes. Talk about an all-rounder.
Itinerary
100% customisable for you
Your family island-hopping adventure in the Balearics starts today. Children in tow, head to the airport, whizz through security and enjoy some downtime in the lounge with nibbles and refreshments as you await departure. The flight time to Palma, Mallorca, is about two-and-a-half hours – long enough to lose yourself in a holiday read while the youngsters brush up on their Spanish.
When you arrive, collect your spacious family-friendly hire car and travel 40 minutes to Colonia de Sant Jordi, a former fishing town that has evolved into an intimate resort on the south coast of the island.
Spend the rest of today settling into island life. We recommend splashing around in the ocean before settling down for a tasty aperitif in one of the many inviting tapas bars dotted around town.
While the Balearic Islands are well-known for their fabulous beaches and vibrant nightlife, their culture – which is often overlooked – is also well worth delving into. So, take today to immerse yourselves in Mallorca’s fascinating history and cultural heritage.
The island boasts fruit plantations, centuries-old mills and tiny traditional villages, all of 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 13th-century Gothic Cathedral, the Saint Francois convent and the Charterhouse of Valldemossa, famous for housing George Sand, author of A Winter in Mallorca.
After a dose of culture yesterday, spend the next two days soaking up the natural landscapes of Mallorca. It goes without saying that the beautiful beaches are worth visiting, but there’s so much else to see and do, too.
To the north, salt marshes have been converted into a protected area, home to gulls, stilts and Mediterranean flora. You can also enjoy a walk in Mondrago Park, where local almonds, figs, barley and wheat are produced.
And, when you’re ready for more culture, head to the picturesque town of Arta with a local guide. The old town here is seriously beautiful – we’re talking narrow streets, pretty churches and stately homes. You can also visit the fortress of Sant Salvador, perched at the top of the village.
Come evening, relax in your cosy oasis or step out to soak up the gentle liveliness of Colonia de Sant Jordi.
Today, you’re switching things up and swapping Mallorca for the neighbouring island of Menorca. After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, hop back into your hire car, head to the airport in Palma and catch a quick 45-minute flight to Mahon, in the southwest of the island.
After touchdown, collect a new hire car and head to your next hotel, where you’ll be staying for three nights. The rest of today is yours to spend settling into your new home, so why not relax on the estate? Mum and Dad can kick back on the loungers while the little ones splash around in the pool. You could also enjoy a stroll through the fragrant gardens and idyllic countryside on your doorstep, or drive to one of the many nearby beaches for an afternoon dip.
Your final two days are all about soaking in the scenic and cultural delights of Menorca, Mallorca’s little sister. Start by discovering the port of Mahon with a knowledgeable local. Delve into the local history before ducking into shops and markets or wandering down the promenade – or a mix of all three.
The rest of your time can be spent as you please. Fancy some time in nature? Cycle through the countryside before enjoying a barbecue on the beach, or admire the wildlife in the S'Albufera des Grau Nature Park.
For a slower pace, stroll the streets of Ciutadella and visit the Santa Maria Cathedral, port, lighthouse and market. Alternatively, explore the Naveta d'Es Tudons, an ancestral tomb shaped like an overturned boat.
And of course, don’t forget to sample the cuisine, particularly the caldereta de langosta (lobster bouillabaisse) and charcuterie produced on the island. There are also several traditional cheese-making farms. Food comas pending...
Sadly, the time has come to drag the youngsters away from the pool and embark on the journey home. After one last delicious Mediterranean breakfast at the hotel this morning, bundle the family back into the hire car and return to the airport.
Drop off the car, whizz through security and take the opportunity to stock up on some last-minute souvenirs before boarding your two-hour flight back to the UK. You’ll land sometime in the afternoon, meaning the family fun can continue with dinner and a passionate discussion about where to travel next.
Suggestions
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
WITH A FEW MORE DAYS… VISIT IBIZA
Still (wrongly) marred by its image as a Mecca for party animals, Ibiza has also long been adored for its quieter side, which advocates a return to calm, wellness and nature. Extend your island-hopping adventure with a few days holed up in a beautiful countryside oasis, far from the crowded resorts. Spend your days in the lap of nature, discovering the UNESCO-listed Ses Salines Natural Park and the Phoenician sites of Puig des Molins and Sa Caleta.
Why visit Spain with Original Travel ?
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
Enquire nowA few of the benefits of travelling with us to Spain
- Our local Concierges
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- Destination Dossier
- 24-hour helpline
- Expert guides
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