Majorca Information
A Brief HistoryMajorca (or Mallorca to give it its correct local spelling) is part of the Balearic Islands. The Islands lie in the Mediterranean Sea 82 km east of the Spanish mainland. As the largest island, Majorca is roughly 100 kms from east to west and at 3640 square km is five times as big as Menorca. (Its sister islands are Ibiza and Menorca).
On Mallorca you will find many ancient towns and villages, wooded hillsides, valleys, mountains, olive groves, sheltered bays and coves and lovely sandy beaches with crystal clear sea. The coastline stretches for some 555 kms and each year the island attracts in the region of 10 million tourists a year attracted by the climate, the beaches and the beautiful scenery.
The history of Spain starts from 11th century BC; it was colonized by Eastern Mediterranean civilizations, starting with the Phoenicians then the Greeks and the Carthaginians. The Romans arrived in 218BC to fight the Carthaginians, this sparked off the Second Punic War. They harvested the peninsulas agricultural and mineral wealth and established cities with aqueducts, temples and theatres.
Until 1975 Spain was governed by the Franca dictatorship, now Spain is a constitutional monarchy of 17 autonomous communities, including the off-shore territories of the Balearics and the Canaries (off Africa’s north-western shares).
When King Juan Carlos came to power, Spain quickly encouraged the growth of the tourism industry that brought so many of us to her shores. The British have fallen in love with Spain as a holiday, golfing and weekend destination and many British now also own Spanish homes and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle and Spanish culture.
Weather
Majorca summers enjoy on average 10 hours of sunshine with temperatures rising to the mid 30s°C during July and August. Such highs mean the sea waters are also very warm and sea temperatures can rise to a pleasant 26°C at the height of the summer.
Majorca’s calas (or coves) are quieter and very pretty. The fjord-like coastline often shelter white ribbons of sand at the end of these small inlets backed by shady pines. The waters are blue, clear and ideal for swimming, snorkelling, diving, boating and fishing. Majorcan summers have delighted since the mid-sixties as they immerse themselves in the beautiful Mediterranean surroundings.
Palma
The beautiful city of Palma is famous for many things, not least its huge marina and popular cruise ship destination. Probably Palma’s most famous landmark is the awesome cathedral – La Seu. Situated on the water’s edge, work on the Cathedral began in 1230 and was not finished for some 371 years, (we all know builders like that)! When in Palma, a visit to the cathedral should certainly be on your to-do list.
Palma’s Castell de Bellver (Bellver Castle) was begun in 1309 and sits on the hills overlooking the city and the sea beyond. Framed by thick pinewoods the castle stood as a signal to all-comers that the island’s rulers were firmly in control. Bellver means 'good view' and that is what you will enjoy when standing on the castle roof.
Language
Spain has a rich linguistic heritage. There are four official languages; Castilian Spanish (the most commonly spoken), Catalan (used in Catalunya and the Balearics), Basque (spoken in the Basque regions of both France and Spain) and, finally, Galician. As if that weren't enough, there are a number of local dialects such as Valéncian and Andulucian. This is all part of the diverse culture of Spain.
Wine
Spain is the world’s third largest wine producer. Rioja is Spain’s best loved variety; it’s a highly distinctive, full bodied wine available in both red and white.
THINGS TO DO / PLACES TO GO
The Glass bottom boat
This boat operates daily throughout the summer season offering a number of different itineries and you are able to embark and disembark from the Hotel Club Cala Barca's own landing stages. The vessel can also be boarded from the harbour of Porto Petro.
Sea Rider 1 and 2 (Cala D'Or marina)
High and very high speed boat rides. Sea Rider operates from the marina and range from 35 mins to 60 mins trips at speeds of 40 and 65 knots respectively. These are truly quick boats!
Horse Riding and SCUBA training courses are available locally.
ATTRACTIONS IN PALMA
Western Water Park – Magaluf
Situated on the outskirts of Palma, Western Water Park has every waterborne ride you could possibly want and then some! Ideal for the young and the not so young, plenty of sunbeds, snack bars and restaurants. A great day out.
Aqualand – Magaluf
Similar venue to the water park with some great rides. For more information check out www.aqualand.es
Marineland
A fabulous centre with amazing animals. For more information check out www.marineland.es
Nemo – Magaluf
Majorca’s tourist submarine. Safe state of the art submarine. Dive to 90 feet and experience another world.
Pirates
World famous and truly unique with a 24 year run. The most exiting show Majorca has to offer with an international cast. Pirates break through the generation gap with an experience you’ll never forget. www.piratesadventure.com
Son Amar
An amazing spectacular show, music, dance, fabulous food and much more. Not the cheapest night out but one you’ll not forget in a hurry. www.sonamar.com
All the above listed excursions can be booked individually through the Hotel, however, as part of our service, your Small Families host may be able to arrange certain excursions just for our group and with our own private transport, (note, this would be subject to sufficient numbers wishing to book). Such an arrangement gives us more control in respect of how we wish to schedule the excursion.
Golf in Majorca
In Majorca there is an extensive range of beautiful golf courses located across the island. The closest course is at Vall D’Or www.valldorgolf.com located between Cala d ‘Or and Porto Colom.
Majorca
| Monday 23rd July | |
| Nights: | 7 Nights |
| Board: | All Inclusive |
| Fly From: | UK |
| Monday 30th July | |
| Nights: | 7 Nights |
| Board: | All Inclusive |
| Fly From: | UK |
| Monday 20th August | |
| Nights: | 7 Nights |
| Board: | All Inclusive |
| Fly From: | UK |
| Monday 27th August | |
| Nights: | 7 Nights |
| Board: | All Inclusive |
| Fly From: | UK |