Christmas greetings from the Mediterranean Sea: As the festive season descends upon us, Mallorca transforms into a magical wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights and festive cheer.
One of the most enchanting sights is Palma’s historic center, illuminated with dazzling displays. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral and the Royal Palace, are bathed in a warm, festive glow.
If you’re planning a winter getaway to Mallorca, I highly recommend staying at the Meliá Marina. This hotel offers exceptional service, stunning views of the marina, and a prime location.
Wishing you all a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year! ✨🫶🏼
Mallorca, Spain’s largest Balearic island, isn’t just about beaches and nightlife. Its dramatic landscapes, especially in the southwest around Calvià and Estellencs, offer outdoor enthusiasts a playground for mountain biking, hiking, and even some climbing.
Mountain Biking
Calvià: Base yourself in Calvià town, and you’ll find trails catering to various skill levels. Head inland for challenging climbs and descents through the Tramuntana foothills. The area offers stunning views and varied terrain.
Estellencs: For more experienced riders, Estellencs is your gateway to the Tramuntana’s heart. Expect steep climbs, technical descents, and jaw-dropping scenery.
Hiking
Calvià: The GR221 (Dry Stone Route) passes through here, offering multi-day treks with options for shorter day hikes. Explore the Galatzó valley or hike up to the Castell del Rei for panoramic vistas.
Estellencs: Hike a section of the GR221, taking in the rugged beauty of the Tramuntana. The trek from Estellencs to Banyalbufar is challenging but rewarding, with coastal views and terraced landscapes.
Climbing
While not as extensive as other destinations, Mallorca offers some rock climbing opportunities:
Calvià: The cliffs near Cala Vinyes have some sport routes, great for beginners and intermediates.
Estellencs: More experienced climbers may find some trad and deep-water soloing opportunities along the coast. Research and local knowledge are essential here.
Why Calvià and Estellencs?
Variety: These areas offer a mix of challenges and scenery, suiting different tastes.
Accessibility: Both areas have good infrastructure, with accommodation, bike rentals, and guided tours available.
Authenticity: Experience the ‘real’ Mallorca, away from the tourist crowds.
Tips:
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer the best weather for outdoor activities.
Prepare: Pack appropriate gear and check trail conditions, especially for mountain biking and hiking.
Respect the environment: Stay on designated paths and minimize your impact.
Mallorca is waiting to be explored. Lace up your boots, hop on your bike, or grab your climbing harness – adventure awaits!
Mallorca, the vibrant Balearic island, is renowned for its stunning beaches and bustling resorts.
However, beyond the tourist hotspots lie two hidden gems, El Molinar and Paguera, each offering a unique charm and peaceful atmosphere. If you’re seeking a more authentic Mallorcan experience, these tranquil escapes should be on your radar.
El Molinar: A Seaside Village with Old-World Charm
Just a stone’s throw away from Palma, the capital of Mallorca, lies the picturesque village of El Molinar. This former fishing village has retained its old-world character, with charming narrow streets, colorful houses, and a lively promenade.
What to See and Do:
Paseo Marítimo: Stroll along the promenade, lined with traditional fishing boats and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Bay of Palma.
Molinar Beach: Relax on this small sandy beach, popular among locals, and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.
Windsurfing and Sailing: El Molinar is a haven for windsurfing and sailing enthusiasts, thanks to its ideal wind conditions.
Gastronomic Delights: Indulge in fresh seafood delicacies at the numerous restaurants and tapas bars dotted along the promenade.
Paguera: A Secluded Oasis with Natural Beauty
Nestled on the southwest coast of Mallorca, Paguera offers a serene retreat away from the crowds. This picturesque resort town boasts three beautiful beaches, surrounded by lush pine forests and dramatic cliffs.
What to See and Do:
Paguera Beaches: Explore the three beaches – Palmira, Tora, and Romana – each with its own unique character.
Hiking and Biking: Discover the stunning natural landscapes of Paguera through scenic hiking and biking trails.
Boat Trips: Embark on a boat trip to explore the nearby coves and hidden beaches.
Boulevard de Paguera: Wander along the vibrant boulevard, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Why Visit El Molinar and Paguera?
Authenticity: Both destinations offer a glimpse into traditional Mallorcan life, away from the touristy crowds.
Tranquility: El Molinar and Paguera provide a peaceful escape, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Natural Beauty: These hidden gems boast stunning natural landscapes, from picturesque beaches to lush forests.
Variety of Activities: Whether you’re seeking water sports, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, El Molinar and Paguera have something for everyone.
Conclusion
El Molinar and Paguera are two hidden treasures waiting to be discovered in Mallorca. These off-the-beaten-path destinations offer a unique blend of authenticity, tranquility, and natural beauty, making them ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate and enriching experience on the island. ☀️🌊
I experienced two weeks of pure mindfulness in Mallorca. Together with my family we enjoyed the Mediterranean Sea, local cuisine, great excursions far from mass tourism and loved to watch the local surfer scene. DM me for special tips. 💗🌊☀️😉
Living through a global pandemic takes its toll on your physical and mental well-being. As the weeks go on under quarantine, lots of people have experienced a rollercoaster of emotions and feelings – from sadness and anger to tiredness and feeling groggy. I call it the COVID burnout.
First my MTB accident with a rather severe trauma 2 years ago, then the pandemic. After carefully weighing the pros and cons, I decided to go on my first vacation during the pandemic.
Some might think it’s pretty selfish, others would consider it stupid with me being a person at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. But you know what: you only live once. My life, my rules. However, during a pandemic it is not that simple, since I don’t wanna spread the virus or endanger others. Hence, I self-isolated myself ten days before the vacation and took a COVID test once a week.
Preparations before the vacation to Mallorca
You need to familiarize yourself with all travel restrictions. For Mallorca I needed to fill out the Spain health form in advance and I took a quick PCR test 24 hours before my flight. Make sure the official document is signed by a certified doctor and that it includes your passport number. The costs are not covered by your health insurance. Also, safe the QR code from the health form in your phone’s wallet. You will need it several times.
For my travels, I booked Business Class to feel safer. Up to 12 hours before the flight you need to upload the filled out Spain health form and the negative test result of your PCR test. Make sure to do so in advance to avoid any trouble at the airport. Also, I booked a private Transfer Service to the airport for both destinations avoiding any contact in public transportation. I also ordered more FFP-2 masks for my vacation: one mask per day. Additionally I bought some COVID-19 quick tests, just in case I needed extra precautions on my side.
I strongly recommend to also check the German travel registrations beforehand. The German government tends to make things complicated. When returning from your vacation, you need a certified negative COVID test before boarding any plane or ferry. I recommend to find certified places in Mallorca beforehand, since local doctors and clinics have limited appointments. I chose to book an appointment at the Eurofins MegaLab at Palma Airport: a quick PCR test on my departure day. Make sure to download their app Trust One beforehand and register. Within 30 minutes you get your results and can easily check-in.
As I mentioned before, I felt safer booking Business Class and already checked in via the Lufthansa app. Then I used the self-check in service at Munich airport, since I already had my boarding pass. One scan, dropping off my luggage, no contacts with other people. I was all set within 5 minutes.
At the safety control, it was the same procedure as usual. Only this time I was the only passenger standing in line, nobody else was there. The airport felt like a ghost town.
Then, at the gate, each passenger was checked individually before boarding. You needed to show your passport, the filled out health form and the negative PCR test. After the check you get a yellow sticker on your passport which you needed to show once again during boarding.
When stepping on the plane, everyone received some disinfectant wipes. The board service is limited: they handed out packed chocolate bars and a bottle of water. But honestly: you don’t really need a board service for a two-hour flight. I kept my mask on the whole time.
Hello Mallorca
After landing they called out the respective rows that were allowed to to leave the plane. One row after another.
On the way to the luggage you will undergo several inspections. Health check & screening of the negative PCR test, QR code from your health form. When I arrived, the airport was pretty empty as well. Many sections were completely closed and it was easy to avoid any contact.
Vacation in Mallorca
The reality is pretty sad. Empty villages, closed shops & hotels, empty beaches…. An estimated 75% of all income generated on the Balearic Islands are directly or indirectly linked to the travel industry, which has led to both rising living standards and higher costs of living for its residents. The inhabitants are experiencing rising poverty that’s even spreading to its wealthier quarters. The next holiday season is unlikely to heal the wound from the pandemic….
For me, however, this meant that it was much quieter and safer than currently in Munich. For several days I had the beach completely for myself and it was generally very quiet: in the supermarket, on the streets; but the change of scenery worked wonders.
MTB in Mallorca during COVID
Mallorca is more popular among road & gravel bikers. Due to the pandemic, many shops are still closed and services are simply not available. Hence, you need to be flexible and pragmatic. For me, it meant a road bike helmet for an average Hardtail. I made it work, though.
BUT: there are currently no shuttle services and in order to get to the trails, you need to cover lots of mileage on the hilly roads. With beautiful mountain ranges with an elevation gain of 1,000 m, that’s tough. Sometimes it was the hell of a workout, but always worth it. I discovered so many beautiful hidden gems.
Mask or no mask
The rules are stricter than in Germany. As soon as you leave your home, hotel room or finca, you need to wear a mask at all times. The only exceptions: during outdoor sports or when sunbathing. When walking along the beach, you need to wear a mask. It is strict, the fines are pretty high. But everyone seems to follow the rules.
Just a little tip: rent a bike. This way you can mostly breathe freely without a mask while discovering the island and enjoying scenic moments. I didn’t eat out, though or sat down at a cafe. I mostly avoided personal contacts and simply enjoyed the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and some personal wellness.
For one exception: I booked a private boat tour at sunrise watching dolphins in Alcudia Bay. I just needed it for my mind and soul.
All in all, I have zero regrets and am pretty sure we will experience new ways of traveling within the near future. And yes, I felt pretty safe and was very cautious myself.
I hope all of you are safe, healthy and also get to refuel your energy during these tough times.
