If the Balearic Islands are written in the plural, it is not without reason. Between the beauty of Mallorca, the madness of Ibiza, the tranquility of Formentera and the solitude of Menorca, here is a palette of discoveries available to all. Head to Mallorca, the island with the greatest variety of landscapes, between the peaks of the Tramuntana, the steep landscapes of Cape Formentor, the coves and wild beaches of the east of the island, the orange plains of Soller... And what a pleasure to go there between February and spring, when the almond trees begin to bloom and the island is covered in white and pink.
Majorca, a very varied nature
Plains, sandy beaches, coasts cut into tiny coves, pine forests and scrubland, remote villages and urban buzz... Mallorca is all this at once. Nature remains varied and omnipresent despite the few concrete epidemics of the tourism industry. So of course, we come back with postcard clichés: bikinis and turquoise sea bordered by golden sand. But the photos also retain the steep slopes of the mountain, the medieval walls, the windmills, the viewpoints and belvederes. In other words, in Mallorca, lovers of a change of scenery can drink far beyond their thirst.
Majorca is still covered with part of its original forest. The island also has a wide variety of fruit trees, such as the emblematic almond trees. In February, the 7 million (!) almond trees start to bloom and the island is covered in white and pink all over. A delightful feast of colors that gently announces the arrival of spring. And a phenomenon that is called "Mallorcan snow" at this time of year. A truly unique moment! And a perfect opportunity to organize a getaway in the Balearic Islands and put on your hiking boots for an activity that has the wind in your sails. Mallorca (especially the mountainous northwest) is no exception to the trend and hiking routes are legion on the island. Superb paths that you can follow on foot, by bike or mountain bike
An exceptional flora
On the island, the fauna and flora are particularly remarkable and make the happiness of the walkers. In Mallorca, the many species of trees are mainly found in the rugged terrain. In the Sierra de Tramuntana - up to an altitude of about 1,000 m - the holm oak reigns supreme. On the northwestern slopes of the Majorcan backbone, it enjoys special climatic conditions, with frequent rainfall, which allows it to flourish. On the southeastern slope, we find species much more common to the Mediterranean world: some holm oaks, but mainly Aleppo pines, which are accompanied by a large number of olive trees, almond trees, fig trees and carob trees, imported over the centuries from the European and African continents, and which today make up a colorful and Mediterranean landscape. It is also common to find lemon and orange trees on the slopes of the sierra as well as on the plains when they are intensively exploited for export. Outside the Tramuntana mountain range, the green lung of the island, the vegetation cover is relatively reduced, except in the protected areas and around Pollença.
Enchanting byways
The west coast of Majorca is by far the most authentic. Most of the villages have resisted the tourist onslaught of the 1960s, although there are a few seaside resorts like Port Sóller. But what sets this coast apart is the Tramuntana, a mountain range that hides small coves, each more beautiful than the next, spectacular rocky landscapes, as well as small villages with enchanting charm. It is classified as a world heritage site by Unesco. We are far from the touristy atmosphere of the surroundings of the capital Palma... Be careful with your eyes!
The agrotourism, the accommodation in vogue
And to put down your bags and rest after long days of hiking in an authentic setting, what better than agrotourism? In order to reduce the difference between agricultural income and the average regional income, the Balearic government has been trying to develop rural tourism for several years. Breaking the seasonal rhythm, the agrotourisms are, in general, old houses modernized into hotels and real charming spots
A range of activities
Beyond hiking, the island offers a wide range of possibilities. A large number of sports can be practiced in optimal conditions and you don't need to be an athlete to enjoy them, as there are activities for all levels: cycling, kayaking, scuba diving, paddle and kitesurfing, and many others. The gastronomy is absolutely spectacular and is also worth a few days to discover the local flavors. Contemplative spirits will be nourished by the artistic heritage, the botanical gardens and the natural parks that are home to a rare flora and fauna. To your reservations!
Smart info
When to come? If the Balearic archipelago is one of Europe's top tourist destinations, it is largely due to its climate. From June to October, the temperature is close to 30°C, and rain is very rare in summer. The best way to cool off is to take a swim or visit the inland areas, where the air is cooler (the Serra de Tramuntana rises to over 1,400 meters). In winter, the thermometer rarely falls below 0°C. If you want to see the almond trees in bloom, you should visit the island between February and spring
How to get there. The average price of a flight from Paris to Palma de Mallorca is between €100 and €300. Travel time is about 2 hours
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