A lovely little Spanish archipelago in the western Mediterranean, the Belearic Islands are about as different as can be considering their proximity to one another. Simply beautiful scenery, however, is a hallmark of all. From the heavily populated island of Mallorca, to the quiet nature preserve on Cabrera, these islands offer a full menu of Mediterranean experiences.
This elegant, eight day itinerary easily expands to include embrace additional destinations, but stands alone as one of the most delightful of Mediterranean holidays.
Day 1: Palma is the largest city on the island of Mallorca. Also the capital, it is a major European holiday destination, nurturing an extravagant nightlife with bars, discos, and pubs along the Paseo Maritimo waterfront that don't even get started until midnight, often still going strong till 6 a.m. The likes of Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Marlene Dietrich frequented the district, as do modern high profile personalities. Still, the island also hosts a number of historic and cultural sights, along with pretty beaches and small, quiet, picturesque towns. Your escape to solitude, however, is an easy tender to your private yacht charter, where peace and quiet reign supreme.
Day 2: Prepare for a nice long morning on the water, with the four-and-a-half hour passage to Ibiza, where you'll find another busy party island, with exceptional restaurants, discos, shops, and social options. There are also perfect beaches, and lovely niches along the coastline that invite anchorage for a serene getaway. Spend the day lounging about Ibiza City, or cruising the coastline.
Day 3: Heading north around the west end of the island, Sant Antoni di Portmany is a nice stop among great beaches, coves and cays, waiting for your arrival. Another hot spot for late night discos and restaurants, the options include some gorgeous beach stops and beautiful dive sites near Ses Margalides just north of Sant Antoni.
Day 4: Back over to the north side of Mallorca, a stop at Port Andratx puts you in with some of the Balearic's most stylish company. If you have evening attire with you, Andratx might be a good place to wear it. Excellent dining options in addition to lots of other yachting groups will appear in town. The port itself is lovely, with fortresses, lots of old mansions, and a castle. Diving is a draw around the bay, with lots of secret caves and coves to explore, along with several fine white sand beaches.
Day 5: En route to Puerto Palencia, stop in Soller for a lovely lunch, or just anchor along this picturesque coast and enjoy the dramatic mountains and cliffs dropping directly into the sea. Proceed to the resort town of Puerto Palenca for a protected harbor.
Day 6: Explore the island of Menorca, following the coastline from Ciutadella, calling at the capital port of Mahon. The ancient ruins, the interesting distilleries, and the waterfront cafes make for an easy cruise along the southern coast of Menorca.
Day 7: The Cabrera Archipelago is a beautifully preserved ecosystem off the south coast of Mallorca. Undeveloped, unspoiled, and quite peaceful, permission is required to moor in this land and sea based national park. A peaceful night under a bountiful canopy of glorious stars, you are certain to remember the beauty of this last night in Balearic Islands with a special fondness.
Day 8: Return to Palma de Mallorca.