Mallorca
Excursion Tips

Island of Cabrera Mallorca's Wine Area Tramuntana Range
With the Train to Sóller Finca-Museum Els Caderers
La Reserva Randa Fornalutx Cabaret Son Amar

BOAT EXCURSION TO THE ISLAND OF CABRERA
You don't need to own or charter a yacht to spend an eventful day at the National Park on Cabrera. A boat offers daily trips at 9:30 (Sundays 8:45) from Colonia St. Jordi to this beautiful island with its wide variety of flora and fauna, protected species of birds and reptiles and fascinating underwater scenery. Walk amongst the unspoiled nature, visit the 14th century Kosaren fortress and in between stop for a picnic and a spot of bathing in the crystal clear sea. During the return journey the boat stops off at the "Blue Grotto", where you can take a last dip in the aquamarine water.
Info and reservations under the telephone number 971 649 034


MALLORCA'S WINE ROUTE
You don't always have to drink a French Chateau Rothschild; Mallorca also offers a selection of very good wines.
Here's a small tour suggestion for all wine fans and those who would like to sample the island's produce.
We start in Santa Maria (Palma - Inca road) with the Bodega (wine cellar) "Jaume de Puntero" in the Plaza Nova. You can choose from their large selection of wines in attractive bottles or ask them to fill, from the huge wooden casks, a container you may bring yourself.
From here we drive further to the neighbouring village of Consell, where the Bodega "Hereus de Ribas" is situated just behind the church. If you have a problem, just ask any of the villagers - everybody knows him. A feature of the underground cellars are the 100 year old maturing casks of American oak. The '97 white wine is especially recommended.
After your purchase and wine tasting (don't forget the alcohol limit in Mallorca is 0.5 for drivers), stay on the main which leads to Binisssalem.
At the very start of the town you'll see Bodega "Franja Roja" (Jose Ferrer) on the right hand side. This is the largest wine producer in Mallorca.


CAR ROUND TRIP TRAMUNTANA AREA
With this recommended day trip you can use your hire car to see some of the best of Mallorca's scenery. Starting in Palma drive towards and through Bunyola (the home of the famous „Tunel" distillery) and over the winding mountain range to the idylic village of Orient (one of the smallest on the island with 30 houses and 3 restaurants), which lies in a breathtaking valley. The ever changing landscape can be enjoyed as you travel further towards the next historic village of Alaro, the first to have electricity. From here take the narrow lanes passing Lloseta, Biniamar, Selva and further to the monastry at Lluc. After a break here drive on to the bay at Sa Calobra, which leads through one of the most adventurous „Serpentine" roads. The route back can take you through Fornalutx (received the award as Spains most beautiful village) to Soller. Park your car in the town and use the picturesque tram to visit the port. Have a nice day !


WITH THE TRAIN FROM PALMA TO SÓLLER
One of the most delightful attractions on the island is the train excursion from Palma (Plaza España) to Sóller. This electric railway was opened in 1912 and the wooden coaches still retain their original charm. The trip lasts around 50 minutes and takes you through the Tramuntana area, with its breathtaking views, passing through 12 tunnels and over numerous valley bridges before arriving in the valley of oranges. The 10:30 train even makes a short stop before entering Sóller, to allow passengers to enjoy the views and take photographs. On arriving in the main town of Sóller, you can take the equally nostalgic tram down to the picturesque harbour, where many restaurants offer a wide selection of fish or meat dishes. Detailed information regarding timetables and prices can be obtained from "Sóller Railway" in Palma (tel: 971 752 051) or Sóller (tel: 971 630 130)


FINCA-MUSEUM "ELS CALDERERS"
If you would like to see how the Mallorquins lived in the previous centuries, you should visit the Finca "Els Calderers". The estate was already recorded in 1229 and the present main building dates back to 1750. Wander through the various rooms and experience the lifestyle of the Mallorcan landowners and their workers. All rooms in the main house and outbuildings are decorated and furnished down to the last detail in the style of the past epoch. The atmosphere gives one the feeling of being a part of this bygone age. There are also indigenous farm animals and home-made food products. You can find "Els Calderers" on the Palma to Manacor road at the 37km marker between Montuiri and Villafranca. Open daily Tel: 971 526 069


EXCURSION TIP: LA RESERVA - A NATURAL PARADISE
The park "La Reserva" at the Puig de Galatzó offers you a fascinating view into the mallorquin nature. This perfectly preserved natural park is to be found close to the village of Puigpunyent. Upon a 3 km long well maintained walkway, you pass along waterfalls, cascades, bizarre stone formations and signs of ancient cultures. The tremendous varieties of the fauna are explained through signs and because it is not allowed to hunt in this area, the park is a paradise for the local animals. At the entrance of the nature park, 3 bears from North Spain have recently found their new home. The approx. 2 hour hike will give you a complete impression of Mallorca's beautiful nature and is also a great pleasure for children.


EXCURSION TIP: RANDA, THE MOUNTAIN WITH 3 MONASTERIES
A nice journey is the trip up to the Puig de Randa which rises 542 m over the plain of Lluchmayor. The route starts in the picturesque village of Randa and guides you to the first monastry "Santuario de Garcia", based right at the bottom of the marvellous rock face. Over the "Santuario Sant Honorat" you will reach at the top of the peak the meaningful pilgrimage monastry "Nuestra Senora de la Cura", which was built in the 13th century. From its terrace you have an impressive view over the complete island. Combine this excursion with a visit to the restaurant "Es Galdent". (see our restaurant tip)


EXCURSION TIP: FORNALUTX
In the annual competion for the most beautiful village in the whole of Spain, Fornalutx (Mallorca) has already won the first prize twice. It is definitely a great pleasure to stroll over its natural stone steps and through the winding alleyways amongst the tastefully decorated houses of this quaint mountain village. Finish your walk at the Bar Bellavista and marvel at the breathtaking view over the orange valley of Soller, from the bar's terrace, which is adorned with flowers.


CABARET & SHOW IN SON AMAR
Gala Dinners and superb shows are not only to be found in Las Vegas, but also in Son Amar, Mallorca. This ex mansion has seats for over 2.000 guests, where you can start your evening with a Mallorcan meal to remember. Starters, main courses, desserts, wine & champagne to your heart's desire. In the meantime the spectacular evening show has begun. The house orchester accompanies a wide variety of acts to suit all tastes with songs from Elton John to Whitney Houston and more. You will be entertained with a dazzling array of performers including, acrobats, dancers, a horse show and David Copperfield style magic. The highpoint of the evening is the appearance of "The Drifters", showband, known for their many hits in the 60's . Round the evening off by dancing under the starlit sky on the wonderful romantic terrace.
Many hotels and travel agencies offer you a night here or you can call and reserve directly at Son Amar Tel: 971 753 614.


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