Which Of The Balearic Islands Is The Best For Vacation?

18.09.2023 - 09:25 / forbes.com

Ibiza is for partying.

Mallorca is for partying and relaxing.

And Menorca is for relaxing.

In between rounds of pomadas (frozen lime-gin slushies native to Menorca), that’s the synthesis of the Balearic Islands that a server delivers like a haiku. We, indeed, sought out Menorca for sun-saturated R&R after attending a wedding in Tuscany and determining that Spain’s Balearic Islands were a more affordable, less crowded, still glimmering alternative to Amalfi and Cinque Terre.

Long popular with tourists from Germany and the United Kingdom, the Balearic Islands are fast becoming popular with U.S. travelers, too, bolstered by United’s new non-stop routes between Newark Liberty International Airport and Spain’s Palma de Mallorca Airport.

Travelers could certainly connect the dots in the Mediterranean east of mainland Spain, visiting Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca with one ambitious itinerary. But each of the islands has its own allure and is worth getting acquainted with on an individual basis.

You know Ibiza for its party-all-night dance clubs that are a magnet for some of the best DJs from around the world who come to spin at mega nightclubs like Amnesia, Eden, and Pacha. The party continues throughout the day at day clubs.

The hilly island is also famous for its hippie culture and markets like the long-running Las Dalias outpost, which has 300 stalls where artisans sell hammocks, hand-painted pottery, original artwork, jewelry, and more. If you’re looking to haul home souvenirs or eclectic decor, head to Sluiz, a rainbow-colored store with a restaurant and bar, too.

The island has also established itself as a destination for super yachts, with several berths in Ibiza Town, plus the opportunity to charter yachts to nearby Formantera, where gin clear waters lap pink sand beaches.

For a swank stay on the quiet side of the island, check into ME Ibiza in Santa Eulalia del Río. The hotel neighbors Nikki Beach, a pioneer in luxury beach clubs. The hotel’s rooftop is a place to unwind, with an infinity pool that skims the sky, daily yoga sessions, and Balinese beds.

Mallorca (or Majorca) is the largest of the Balearic Islands. In addition to picturesque coves and inviting turquoise waters, the island has a mountainous backbone and a convivial city core, Palma, Mallorca.

Those wishing to get a good overview of the island should rent a car and take day trips to some of the fairytale-like mountain villages like Valldemossa, a cobblestone village 20 minutes outside of Palma where you can grab a scoop of gelato and stroll through gardens or enjoy a candlelit piano concerts in the summer.

For a swim, bring your snorkeling gear to the calm waters of Cala Llombards and seek out Sa Colobra, a hidden beach with caves and