36 hours in Mallorca

Ill-reputed as an overcrowded party island full of Germans and Brits sipping Sangria out of 3 liter buckets and dancing to very simple-minded German Crooners, Mallorca has much more to offer than its “Ballermann” insanity.

With its pretty coves, lavender filled parks and a variety of restaurants the sun kissed Balearic island is a great place for bikers, foodies and sun worshippers alike. If you’d like to build up on your stock of beautiful Spanish fashion pieces there are plenty of opportunities in Palma as well.

Sights: Mallorca’s many tourist beach towns are predominantly populated by one group of tourists, whether its Germans or Brits. Palma on the other hand is one of the few places in Mallorca where locals and tourists mix. Visit the beautiful cathedral of Palma, venture around the harbor or visit Es Baluar, a contemporary art gallery which includes paintings by Miró, Barceló and Picasso.

Port Portals: Indisputably one of Mallorca’s chicest destinations. The small yacht harbor is faintly reminiscent of Saint Tropez although the Yachts are slightly smaller here. In the evening it’s a mix of well heeled tourists and locals who come here for dinner. For some people watching head to Cappuccino for an aperitif.

Rent a bike and explore the island – from Magaluf both Santa Ponca and Paguera are reachable within an hour. If you feel like burning some extra calories walk (or, dependent on your fitness level ) run up the long staircase in Santa Ponca. Up on the top you’ll be rewarded with an amazing view of Santa Ponca’s picturesque cove.

Restaurants: 

Simply Fosh in the center of Palma was awarded a Michelin star last year. It offers a delicious 3 course lunch at a real bargain of 26 Euros in the middle of a tranquil patio. Not to be missed! Carrer de la Missió, 7A – 07003 Palma de Mallorca, Tel.: +34 971 720 114

You simply can’t visit Mallorca without a real tapas lunch. Tasts in the center of Palma is the perfect place to indulge in a variety of tapas such as camembert and Jamon Iberico accompanied by a good glass of Ribera del Duero. Don’t leave without having tried their delicious mini hamburguesas. Calle Unio, 2, 07001, Palma de Mallorca () · +34 971 729 878

For dinner head to Tahini, an upscale Sushi Restaurant at Port Portals. The dining areas are split across various heated glass cubicles, the interior is tasteful and elegant and the food is very good too. Plaça Portals, 2, 07184 Portals Nous, Illes Balears, Spanien, +34 971 67 60 25

What to wear: Mallorca is all about relaxed and chic fashion. Generally speaking the fashion worn here is less bohemian than in Ibiza and much more understated than in Saint Tropez.

These are our 3 must wear pieces every fashionista should have packed for a trip to Mallorca:

A white lined dress paired with wedge sandals will work everywhere – whether you are venturing through Palma or ready for a fancy dinner at Port Portals. This look won’t fail you.

Shorts in a signature colour (think red, blue or orange) and a silk top or blouse will make you look elegant. Wear it with flats (sandals or ballerinas) during the day and wedge sandals in the evening.

Accessories, Accessories, Accessories: long earrings, bangles and leather bracelets. Everything goes. After all, you are on vacation!

Where to stay:

ME Mallorca is a modern, trendy hotel in Magaluf next to Niki beach. The rooms are modern and relatively spacious and staff is very helpful. The hotel has recently been renovated and emanates a clean, beach club like charm. The rooms are moderately priced and range from € 80-120. Be warned though, if breakfast is not included it comes with a hefty price tag of 25 Euros per person. Avenida Notario Alemany 1, Valvia