Majorca. The Balearic Island has long featured on the itinerary of many a British family, and by the time you are done with this post you will know the reason why.
While Ibiza can be a deemed a little, nay – way – over the top for parents visiting with young kids in summer (who does that anyway!), it can be a fantastic destination for the whole family during the winter months when things have cooled down.
Although the romantic island of Formentera can offer a thing (or two) for the young ones in terms of activities to do, it can be a touch too boring for them. This is a nature lover’s paradise, and kids – well – you know kids.
That leaves Minorca and Majorca. The former is a good family destination, but it can never match the variety on offer on the shores of its larger counterpart.
The beauty of Majorca is that it has a little something for everyone, the sheer size of it alone with its multiple regions sees to this. Whether it’s clubbing, every outdoor activity imaginable on a gorgeous island with a great natural setting, history, gastronomy, art, shopping or family activities you are interested in, the largest of the four Balearic Islands has it all.
This is why it continues to draw in every kind of visitor each year, and if what you are after is a family holiday, rest assured that Majorca won’t disappoint. It’s a family treat.
What then, are some of the best activities available for kids on the island?
Having graced its shores for years, a number of family-friendly attractions stood out for us. Here are some the kids are guaranteed to enjoy.
Palma Aquarium
Palma Aquarium in the island’s capital is a must-visit for not just kids, but adults as well. The attraction is home to a whopping 55 tanks, all of which constitute an incredible five million litres of salt water. 5 million.
In addition to over 8,000 animals spanning 700 different aquatic species on show, the largest roof garden in the whole of Spain is crested here, featuring a tropical jungle and Mediterranean gardens.
But ‘The Big Blue’ definitely dwarfs the other attractions. This enormous shark tank is the deepest not just in Spain but the whole of Europe, and it never gets old.
Kids will love the incredible marine life here, never mind making their own on-land attempts of Finding Nemo. They are also allowed to camp out on its front all night, provided they are 6 years and above (although younger ones too are allowed – entry is in fact free for those less than 3 years old).
Moreover, the family attraction that it is, the aquarium has long had organised special activities for children, ranging from face painting to games, and of course, water fights (on a pirate ship). While they are at it, they can assume the role of ocean guides and assist in feeding the rays, Koi fish and turtles.
As for you, diving is allowed if you fancy a close brush with the likes of tiger sharks, sandbar sharks and reef sharks.
Aqualand
We’ve decided to include Aqualand on the list for variety.
There are actually two of these waterparks on the island, one in Magaluf and the other in Arenal. Both are sure to guarantee a devil of a time for the kids. In fact, a holiday to Majorca without dropping by at any of these is not complete for the children.
The colossal parks promise pools, slides and a variety of water activities which will keep the kids so occupied that dragging them out of the water will take some doing on your part.
Dolphin Watching
The children will have to sleep early the night before if they are to make it for this early sailing expedition which starts at six in the morning; departure point – the Port of Cala Ratjada.
Think of this excursion as double-kill: you’ll witness the amazing Majorcan sunrise over the Mediterranean, and hopefully the dolphins will come calling as they swim and jump around your boat. Breakfast on deck.
There is no better way to usher in a day!
Sightseeing
Majorca is a dream family destination in terms of the impressive attractions and destinations it promises.
The best idea for this – if you want to make the most of the day – is to hire a car.
Get to revel in the scenic drive of the striking Serra de Tramuntana Mountains, or if you are intent on showing the kids some bit of history, an exploration of the Old Town and visit to the architectural marvel that is Palma Cathedral – the city’s most popular landmark – should work them a treat.
While you are at it…
Go on a tour of Bellver Castle
Every kid loves forts and castles, and the Bellver Castle will be a huge hit with them.
Snuggled on top of the hills overlooking the city of Palma, Bellver castle traces its roots to the 14th century when it was used as a royal fortress. And good heavens, was it a work of creative art.
Unlike most other castles in Spain, it boasts a unique round shape and it’s evident from its location and architecture that it must have served its inhabitants quite well. Little wonder it still stands gallantly six centuries later.
Surrounded by a pine forest, the castle has a number of permanent exhibitions and a museum with exceptional displays that clearly unravel the history of Palma, and the island of Majorca in general.
There are unending tunnels and secret staircases for the kids to explore. But wait till you get to what was used as the lookout towers. The sweeping views of the Bay of Palma are a top-dollar.
And oh, there is also a café on site.
The Beach
Of course, being an island, it naturally follows that a trip to the beach is a given.
When it comes to the best family beaches in Majorca, few can match the sprawling 6-km blue-flag Playa de Muro beach.
It is divided into three areas – the bustling west (bordering Alcudia), the less-busier middle section (Es Brac or Playa de Muro Sector II), and Es Comu, a stretch of unspoilt beach palisaded by sand dunes, juniper bushes and the ubiquitous pine trees of the Balearics. The latter is best for nature walks.
The shallow waters of Playa de Muro beach make it perfect for swimming, even for younger kids, with plenty of other activities to keep them engaged.
Santa Euginia Natural Park
The small village of Santa Euginia promises activities that everyone will relish. It is not far off from the mountain ranges of Sierra de Tramuntana, and sits 10 kilometres from the city of Palma. As the pure atmosphere will let you know, this is typical rural Majorca at its best.
The village has a population of about 1,300 people and is a haven of tranquility and seclusion. There is a zoo with virtually all kinds of animals, from pigs to kangaroos and several other attractions, including caves that were once used not just as abodes, but also burial chambers.
Palma Train to Soller
These elegant vintage trains have been doing daily 27-km commutes as they ply between the city of Palma and the fascinating rural town of Soller.
The town boasts quite an enviable location, sitting in a lush valley between the sea and the mountains. The hour-long excursion promises splendid views of the coast and some of Majorca’s hidden corners.
If you are planning a family holiday to Majorca, now you have an idea on some of the island’s top attractions to keep an eye out for. Regardless, you can always discover your very own gems and share them with us!