Exploring Mallorca by car is a must. This is the rule. It is the best way to see the island from top to bottom. So as soon as you arrive rent a car because you will need it to travel around Mallorca in 7 days and visit the most stunning places throughout the entire island.
Palma, the capital, is our starting point and from there we start our journey to explore the best routes by car through this beautiful island.
Route 1: Es Trenc – Es Caragol Beach – Ses Salines Lighthouse
It is not necessary to go to the Caribbean Island for you to bathe in crystal clear waters. Es Trenc, your first stop in this journey, is the perfect spot to enjoy some white sand and clear blue water.
Es Trenc is located in the province of Campos, away from civilization and surrounded by lovely salt flats and pine trees. It is divided into two different beaches; Ses Covetes and Ses Salines. Beware, the first one is for nudists. Both beaches are known for its exceptional crystal clear waters and white candid sands.
Towards the afternoon we recommend you to take the car and drive towards Es Caragol, a real Mallorcan paradise, with white sand dunes that stretch more than one kilometre inland. Close to it the Faro de Ses Salines, where you can appreciate breathtaking views of the Cabrera Island and its amazing nature.
Route 2: Estellencs – Torre de Verger – Andratx – Port Andratx – Camp de Mar
This route brings you the north-west part to the island, specifically to la Cala de Estellencs. Before reaching your destination, we recommend you to stop at Torre de Verger. Its spectacular views will make you take more than just one picture. In Estellencs you will have the privilege to enjoy one of the most beautiful coves on the island. Just be careful! The roads are narrow and only one car fits at a time.
After dipping in its beautiful waters, get back to your car and drive towards Andratx. Located in the Serra de Tramuntana, it is known to be one of the oldest municipalities in Mallorca. Its narrow and picturesque streets preserve the real Mallorcan essence. Take some time also to visit the small and well-kept Port Andratx (just 5 km away from the city). Towards the end of the day drive back towards Palma, not before making a stop at Camp de Mar, an area appreciated by many celebrities.
Route 3: Deià – Sóller – Sa Calobra
The Cala Deià is usually crowded with people, so we recommend you to make this a priority. Make sure also to stop in the town. Perched at the foot of the mountain and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea this place is the balcony of the island, also one of the most populated areas in the Serra de Tramuntana.
Next stop: Sòller. This town is located right in the middle of a valley known for its production of oranges (from the Port de Sòller oranges were exported to France during the 19th century). Make sure to visit Plaza de la Constitución and Can Prunera. The square is dominated by the majestic church of Sant Bartomeu, and is populated by many cafes and bars. Can Prunera, instead, is perfect if you would like to admire numerous lovely pieces of art.
The final destination of this route is Sa Calobra. Throughout this journey you can witness some of the most peculiar roads on the island. Get ready to drive through the famous 360-degree curve, also known as the Nus de sa Corbata. Once arrived, you will find two beaches nestled between cliffs, divided just by the Torrent de Pareis. This is surely one of the most popular areas on the island.
Route 4: Port de Pollença – Port de Alcudia – Playas de Muro – Can Picafort
This route explores some of the most popular beaches in the eastern part of Mallorca. From Palma we drive towards Port de Pollença and finish the route in Can Picafort. It is no longer than 24 kilometres and it crosses the beautiful S’Albufera National Park. This location is known for its beautiful beaches, like the beach of Muro, one of the top 5 in the island.
But first make sure to stop and visit Port de Alcudia, a town full of history and ancient capital of the island during the Roman occupation. Here you will encounter the lovely ruins of a Roman amphitheatre and of the old city of Pollentia.
Route 5: Cuevas de Artá – Cala Millor
The next route takes us to Cuevas de Artá, located in the eastern part of the island. Surely by now you know Caves del Drach and Caves de Hams. Well, the one we suggest you is of equal importance, less crowded and cheaper, where you can also admire the tallest stalactite in Europe. Make sure to save some money and buy the typical herbal liqueur from Mallorca.
From Artá we head towards the beach of Cala Millor. It extends for almost 2 kilometres, and it’s the perfect location for families. Part of this coast has been declared a natural reserve. A true paradise.
Route 6: Following in the footsteps of King James I
In 1229 King James the I, also known as the “Conqueror”, lead his troops to conquer the entire island. This route recreates the exact path the army took during their conquest. Starting from Palma we drive towards Santa Ponça, the exact area where the troops disembarked. If you decide to visit this town during September, you can assist to the Moors and Christians parades. Next stop is Port of Sant Elm, the place where the troops dropped anchors. Perfect location if you are looking for a cultural route.
Route 7: Mallorca’s Interior
If you don’t particularly fancy sun and beaches, don’t worry. The interior of the island has much more to offer, even though it’s sadly forgotten by many tourist guides. The perfect route to discover this area starts in Pina, followed by Sencelles, Costitx, Llubi Maria de la Salut, Ariany, Petra and finishes in Montuiri. From there just take the MA-15 to head back to Palma. Throughout this route you can visit beautiful villages, old mills and wineries. Totally worth it!
Throughout these many routes you can enjoy the real Balearic essence. For this reason, we recommend you that during your trip you spend some time to at least plan one of these excursions. What are you waiting for?
