Navigation guide Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands are not all about beach resorts. Despite mass tourism, the archipelago managed to conserves its natural charms. Starting with the surprising Serra de Tramuntana in Mallorca, which offers from the top of the cliff an amazing panorama on the Mediterranean sea. While travelling on a sailboat do not miss the opportunity to sail in the natural park of La Cabrera. These deserted islets might be the most peaceful place of the Balearic Islands. Enjoy a swim surrounded the colorful fishes, the Posidonia beds and all kinds of of seabirds. Minorca is the second biggest island of the archipelago. It's also the less touristy. It is really appreciated by nature lovers. Beautiful landscapes, still very wild, divided in two : up North the coast is shreded and steep with a red soil, down south the scenery is much greener and you'll go from plains to secret coves. Don't forget your camera to capture Minorca's beauty! Ibiza and Formentera are not all about partying. You'll find there the Park of Las Salinas and its blue lagoons. The northern areas of Ibiza preserved the authentic face of the island with stone villages, heavenly creeks and charming hiking paths. In Formentera don't miss the opportunity to go for a walk in the salt marshes.

Get lost in the mazes of the old towns of each island. You'll find an authentic atmosphere in the neighborhoods of these cosmopolitan villages. Many monuments are worth a visit. The rich history of the archipelago gave birth to a true cultural melting-pot between greek, arabic and spanish heritage. In Mallorca, you'll notice this particularly in Palma, Deia, Soller and Fornalutx. These last two are fighting over the title of the "most beautiful village of Spain". Go check it out yourself : which one deserves it most ? An early morning walk in the little streets of la Ciutadella, Minorca's ancient capital, is an excellent way to start the day. A curious mashup of arabic and spanish culture awaits you. If you want to discover the calm side of Ibiza, you should definitely go to Dalt Vila. The old town is a delight with its little streets, charming white houses and the beautiful panoramic views of the bay.

The Balearic Islands are an amazing change of scenery. You'll find there many beaches and coves all along its coasts. Discover them on a sailboat! Can you imagine a better way to enjoy the holidays than a cruise? Some secret coves are easily accessible by boat. It's the case of the Cap Formentor which offers an isolated setting to the sailors who reach it. The point of view is magnificent with the mountain that falls in the turquoise water. You can also dive in the deep blue sea of the Cala Agulla, an idyllic beach of Mallorca. In Minorca you'll find deserted beaches. And they have nothing to envy to the famous ones! There are almost 200 of them on the island! Cavalleria, Mitjana, Presili or Tirant are good examples of what you can find there. Go discover the crystal clear water coves of Ibiza. During the peak season you might prefer an anchorage in the Platja de Llevant in Formentera for a relaxing break in the smallest island of the Balearics. You can also give it a shot to the beautiful waters of Platja de ses Illetes.

Part of the Spanish way of life is to eat late and very well. Follow the rythm of the sun and go for dinner at 9 PM ! And what a meal ! Tapas or a delicious paella... it's all up to you ! Dishes are usually inspired by the sea but you can also try some very typical deli meats as for example the sobresada. Each island has its own specialties, a cruise will allow you to try a little bit of everything. In Minorca you have to taste the Langosta calderata ! You'll also find very specific dishes, half way between english and spanish cuisine. The Ensaimada is the local pastry in Mallorca. In Ibiza it's more about drinking hierbas, this herb liquor.

In the evening, this is another face that shows us the archipelago, which has the reputation of celebrating the art of the party! Ibiza is the best example with its status of world capital of the party. While the island was neglected, it attracted hippies and artists from around the world in the 50s. Bob Dylan or Joni Mitchell even gave it a show! Subsequently, Ibiza became the essential place of the jet set. Even today, it's "the place to be" to party until dawn! Just go to the Bora Bora or Pacha clubs to take the time. Mallorca also lives at night. There are also as many clubs as in Ibiza, including the club Pacha, present in both islands. In the summer, the parties beat the pace of these clubs in Palma de Mallorca. If you're not into a nightclub, opt for an evening at one of the beach bars or on a creek around a campfire and a guitar.