Great Things to Do Near Riviera
The old ruined castle at Alaró
Make your way to the top of Castell d'Alaró - take water to drink as the last part of the journey has to be done on foot. The views from the top are breathtakingly beautiful! On the way down enjoy a meal at the Restaurant Es Verger where they serve tasty roast lamb done in a traditional Mallorcan oven.
Local beaches and coves
The east coast of Mallorca has several coves and beaches which are safe for children, and others that are fun for snorkelling. The most popular beaches are Cala Sa Nau, S'Amarador, Cala Mondragó, Cala Llombards and a little further away Es Trenc.
A drink in the square at Santanyi
A pleasant way to spend an evening is sitting in the square at Santanyí where occasionally they have live music in one of the local bars. There are also several popular restaurants to choose from.
Sunday Market in Felanitx
The market in Felanitx on Sunday morning is a colourful, bustling event where you can buy your locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as souvenirs and presents.
The famous Caves of Drach
The most spectacular caves on the island are the Caves of Drach in Portocristo, where one of the largest underground lakes is to be found. Also in the same area are the Caves of Hams. Further north, at Canyamel, are the Caves of Artà which are not quite so commercial. Visits are usually on the hour.
Play a round of golf!
Play a round of golf! Play 18 holes at Vall d’Or Golf, on the road between Cala d’or and Porto Colom. valldorgolf@valldorgolf.com.
Sant Salvador Monastery and sunset
It is worth the drive to the top of the hill of Sant Salvador, near to Felanitx. As well as the monastery which has a museum, bar and restaurant, the views of the surrounding countryside are magnificent. On a clear day you can see the Island of Cabrera Nature Reserve, or even witness a most beautiful sunset.
Boat trips along the east coast
There is a variety of boat trips leaving from Portocolom and Portopetro (Starfish)which take you down the east coast of Mallorca, visiting some of the lovely coves and, on occasions, you are allowed to swim off the boat.
Visit one of the local wineries
There are several wineries open to the public in Mallorca. Jaume Mesquida de Mallorca is in the street C/ de la Vileta 7 in Porreres - a family-run business founded in 1945 which produces wines of the Pla and Llevant areas.
Visit Palma Aquarium
Discover the marine world’s best kept secrets by embarking on a wonderful adventure through this marine park featuring more than 8000 animals of 700 different species and more than 5 million litres of salt water. You will also be able to enjoy a wide variety of activities which combine education and fun, suitable for all ages. Open daily. Check website for actual opening hours: Palmaaquarium.com
Visit the Island of Cabrera
Cabrera is an island off Mallorca`s south east corner. A National Park and Marine Reserve, this is a wonderful day trip for those interested in nature and history. You can climb to the castle towering above a harbour used as a place of refuge since Roman times, swim in crystal waters, and visit the island’s museum. Daily trips from Colonia Sant Jordi, bring your own picnic or buy lunch onboard and the trip home includes a visit to the Blue Cave.
Portopetro and Portocolom
The small fishing ports of Portopetro and Portocolom are congenial for a stroll around the quayside and a meal sitting on the terrace of one of the restaurants overlooking the picturesque harbours.There are also boat trips available during the day from these two harbours where you can appreciate the beauty of the east coastline.
Valldemossa and Deià
The Carthusian Monastery at Valldemossa, where Chopin spent a winter, is worth a visit and a stroll round the quiet back streets of Valldemossa, too. Then carry on to the beautiful village of Deià, home to many famous people, writers, painters and musicians.
Going further north...
Spend a day visiting the towns of Artà, famous for its basket making, and Capdepera where there is an interesting old castle worth seeing. Also in the area is a small hermitage at Betlem, from which you can appreciate fantastic views towards Colònia de Sant Pere and the Bay of Alcúdia.
Palma de Mallorca, capital city
It would be a shame not to spend time in Palma - there are many interesting historical buildings to visit including the Cathedral, Almudaina Palace, Bellver Castle, as well as museums and art galleries. Palma is also an excellent shopping centre.
