The Balearic Islands

Many prehistoric constructions found on the islands of Menorca and, to a lesser extent, Mallorca, open an enigmatic window in time contrasting vividly with latter-day snapshots of a sun-kissed paradise and the prime tourist destination of the modern day Balearic Islands.

The Balearics were originally colonised by the Phoenicians who established profitable trading outposts here several centuries B.C. These were replaced by the Greeks, the Carthaginians, the Romans, the Arabs and the Turks who all, in their turn, left their traces in the form of bridges, roads of communication, castles and fortresses. After the defeat of the Arabs by the Catholic Kings, Catalan settlers arrived bringing their customs and their language with them, a variety of which is widely spoken today.

The Balearic chain of islands comprises three main islands and several smaller ones. The nearest island to the Spanish coast is Ibiza, the least developed yet with the split personality of a late-night party reveller and a tranquil lover of nature. In Ibiza’s capital, post-Muslim Christian influence is well demonstrated by extensive fortifications that were built around the old town.

Mallorca is the administrative centre of the archipelago and largest island of the group. Its -developed cultural agenda is emphasised by its museums, the ancient fortifications and the sweeping majesty of the Cathedral in the principal city of Palma. With the stunning scenery of its interior and the sheer beauty of the many golden beaches that line its coasts, it’s no wonder that Mallorca remains one of the most popular tourist destinations of Spain.

Menorca, to the north east, retains an atmosphere of mystery that its many ancient stone structures lend. Less well developed than its neighbours and located furthest from the Spanish coast. Menorca’s slow pace of life, broken only by the madness of the festival of St Joan in late June and tempered by some of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Spain, are uniquely priceless.

Perhaps the most popular image of the Balearic Islands is the tourism of sun, sea and sex. Although still a popular destination for those seeking a complete break from the routine of their daily lives, the Balearic Islands offer a huge spectrum of experiences from crowded beaches outside uniform concrete high-rise hotels to country hideaways deep in the mountains where it is possible to imagine that your own little bubble of reality is the only one that exists.

More information: http://www.illesbalears.es/

Routes and Places worth a Visit

The Natural Park of Albufera des Graus, near to Mahón on the island of Menorca is a unique place where nature and scenery combine to provide a spectacle that simply cannot be missed on any visit to the island. This area of around 70 hectares of land has not been spoiled by either the presence or the constructions of man and retains a natural aspect that has resulted in it being declared a Reserve of the Biosphere.

Interior of Mallorca where the Sanctuary of the Mare de Déu de San Salvador de Felanitx is found. This national monument, first mentioned in historical literature in the year 1348, is located at over 490 metres in altitude and owns stunning views across the whole island. The best views are reserved for clear days when it’s possible to see all the way to the neighbouring island of Cabrera.

Fortress of the Mola in Mahón on Menorca is a mighty construction built between 1850 and 1875. It’s location in one of the archaepelago’s most beautiful reserves hightens the attraction of any visit.

Important Fiestas

In Felanitx, Mallorca, the dance of the cavallets and the fiesta of the Patron Saint, San Agustin, happens at the end of August.

Cuitadella, Menora holds its particular fiesta on the 24th June, a fiesta that centres around the horse.