The Balearic Islands are situated in the Eastern Mediterranean and are a province of Spain consisting of over 105 islands and islets. The four largest and probably best known islands are Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Pre-pandemic there were over 13 million annual tourist visitors to the islands, making them a holiday hotspot particularly popular with UK tourists.
With flights from most UK airports and flight times from 2hr 15mins, the Balearics are easily accessible and an ideal short haul destination. They are also accessible by ferry from the Spanish mainland for those more adventurous travellers or for those who do not like flying.
The islands benefit from a moderate autumn and winter climate with longer lazy sunny days in the spring and summer. Autumn is the wettest time of the year although rainfall is still likely to be less than 85mm. Summer, of course, sees the premium weather with up to 13 hours of sunshine and average temperatures of 26°C to 31°C across June to August.
Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera are popular holiday destinations with something to offer every type of traveller. From the party atmosphere of Ibiza through the family resorts of Mallorca to the secluded coves and slower pace of Menorca and Formentera.
All four of the main islands are perfect for beach holidays with the sweeping 7km sandy beach of Alcudia being a favourite of those looking for beach sports, whilst the many picturesque coves around Menorca offer a quieter more sleepy experience.
So which one to visit? Decisions, decisions, decisions…
Mallorca
The pretty much perfect location for a beach holiday in the summer with maybe a little bit of exploring thrown in. Mallorca is also highly rated for a city break to Palma out of season.
With over 250 beaches around the island to choose from, one of our favourites is the sweeping curved sandy beach of Alcudia on the north coast. It is around 7km long with calm and shallow water, plenty of sandy dunes, beach hotels and watersports. For those looking for a quieter day, try visiting the small beaches and coves of Cala D’or, a low rise resort on the east coast with opal blue waters.
Beautiful coves and beaches are a highlight of Mallorca as is the dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountain range which dominates the north west coast. The mountains are a UNESCO world heritage site and are best explored by car, giving you a chance to enjoy beautiful scenery and the opportunity to stop off at Port de Sóller and Deià.
Travelling out of season, many head for the sights of Palma, Mallorca with the gothic style Santa Maria (Le Seu) cathedral overlooking the Bay of Palma a must see destination. Another must do is a wander around the Old Town where there is an eclectic mix of art galleries, shops, cafés, bars and restaurants.
Menorca
A slightly slower-paced island than Mallorca with a more chilled outlook on life, Menorca still has the same great sun-drenched beaches and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Balearic culture and gastronomy.
A firm favourite of ours is the stonewashed village of Binibeca, possibly the most beautiful village on the Island with its narrow streets and beautiful restaurant square. The nearby beach at Punta Prima is also a family favourite with a small promenade row of cafes, bars, shops and restaurants.
Just a short 15 minute drive away is Mahon, the capital. It is small but picturesque and well worth visiting for a wander when on the island. With one of the world’s largest natural harbours, a boat trip to appreciate its beauty is a must after a leisurely stroll around the shops and markets and perhaps lunch at one of the many harbour-side cafes and restaurants.
Ibiza
The party isle, the white isle, and definitely the livelier of the Balearic islands, Ibiza is also gaining a reputation for yoga and wellness retreats.
Playa d’en Bossa and Las Selinas each lay claim to being the best beach on the island. Both are long, sandy and great for people watching. For more of a family vibe, perhaps head to the shallow waters of Cala Bassa.
For many people, a visit to Ibiza is all about the nightlife and the summer months see several of the major European DJs pop up in Ibiza at DC10, Amnesia and Pacha.
Formentera
The smallest and probably most laid-back island of the Balearics at just over 20km long. Formentera is the perfect place to explore, from sleepy coves and perfect beaches to quiet villages.
With no airport on the island, most visitors fly to Ibiza and then take the ferry across, a short 35 minute hop. What a brilliant way to start your holiday, feel the sea breeze and relax. The main resort on the island is Es Pujols which is large enough to provide variety but also small enough that by the end of the week you’ll feel like a local.
A great option is to pop over for a day trip by ferry from Ibiza and visit some of the beautiful restaurants, where you can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at its best or maybe hire a scooter and do some exploring.