The Balearic Islands are not just renowned for their vibrant nightlife and cultural diversity, but they are a destination of sheer beauty. Such clear waters surround the islands of Formentera and Menorca that it is sometimes difficult to make out the difference between the sky and the sea, leaving it to the imagination of the traveller!
Recent years have seen the islands become increasingly upmarket, attracting those visitors who come to enjoy endless sunshine and the many world class restaurants, five star hotels, and villas the islands have to offer.
Mallorca
Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic islands, offers a myriad of opportunities to enjoy both its lush rural landscape and dramatic coastline. You can explore the Serra de Tramuntana – a mountain range, whose steep slopes run down the west of the island (now a World Heritage Site), or pay a visit to some of the many wineries where visitors can try out some of the local produce.
For a taste of culture, there is the bustling city of Palma De Mallorca. Situated on the Southern shores, the island’s capital overlooks the sparkling blue seas of the Mediterranean. It’s most impressive vista is that of the Gothic cathedral dominating the sea front. Like many Spanish towns, the old quarter offers a maze of winding lanes, tiny shops and restaurants for visitors to explore.
If you are on a boat, the dramatic coastline and its many secluded bays and coves, make Mallorca a beautiful destination in which to spend time yachting in the Mediterranean. The natural nooks and crannies around the coastline, offer protection from the sea, making it possible to anchor in one of the many secluded bays and calas of the island.
Ibiza
Although well-known for the lively nightlife of its party hotspots Ibiza Town and Sant Antoni, you don’t have to wander far afield to uncover an altogether mellower side to the island, offering quiet villages, pine-backed sandy coves, and a rich cultural heritage.
In the North, Puerto San Miguel and Portinatx are a mixture of white sandy coves, backed by hills and an abundance of wild flowers. To the South, the small town of Santa Eulalia, creates a more sophisticated backdrop, offering cosmopolitan bars and restaurants at its centre, along with its busy Marina.
The exclusive Marina of Santa Eulalia houses some of the island’s best restaurants as well as high-end shopping. Just 14km from Ibiza town, it’s a world away, but the perfect central point for exploring the island’s various coves and beaches or for getting to know the quieter South East coast from Cala d’en Serra to Es Freus.
Ibiza’s capital, Ibiza Town, has an old quarter that is now on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list. It’s surrounded by Medieval stone walls and a fortress. The newest part of town is on the waterfront – offering a huge array of more sophisticated bars and restaurants with rows of market stalls through which to enjoy a leisurely stroll, or stop for a while and browse.
Plot a course around the island and discover some of its untouched coves or head out to Tagomago Island just a few kilometres off Ibiza’s north-western tip. This private island can be rented via the owner (tagomago-island.com), and is perfect for a spot of fishing or watersports.
If it is the slightly more vibrant nightlife you are seeking during your visit, there are of course a host of renowned bars and clubs you can try, taking you into the early hours!
Menorca
The second largest of the Balearic islands, Menorca is best known for its golden beaches and stunning rugged coastline, rocky coves and secluded bays – a true paradise for boaters – and with more beaches than both Mallorca and Ibiza put together.
Many of the beaches offer all the facilities you might expect from an established resort, with a wide selection of shops, restaurants and bars and plenty of history and culture to explore. Many of the beaches remain completely untouched. Only accessible by boat, you can have your very own beach paradise in total seclusion!
Built on a hill overlooking the port, the capital Mahon is a picturesque mix of local and colonial architecture, with a large natural harbour. Spanning just 9 miles, the island is unspoilt by tourism, retaining much of its original character in the small towns and villages dotted along its rugged coastline.
Menorca has a large and friendly boating community and offers an abundance of picturesque and safe anchorages as well as excellent marina facilities. Cruising is simple with few hazards along its pretty and contrasting coastline. For life off-board, Menorca has a rich history with numerous archaeological and historical sites open for visitors. Cultural events take place throughout the year including the International Jazz Festival, Jazz Obert, and the popular “Opera Weeks” which take place annually in May and December attracting visitors from all over Spain and further afield.
Formentera
Formentera is an incredibly beautiful and unspoiled island. Perfect for families, the island creates a relaxed atmosphere of peace and tranquility. You can only reach Formentera by boat, so not surprisingly the beaches have become a popular spot for nudists, although clothes are optional!
Of all of the Balearics, Formentera has retained its original Spanish feel. There is a great opportunity to spend the day exploring some of the quaint little villages, and visit one or two of the old shops.
The Marina de Formentera has been renovated to provide berthings from 8 metres to 28 metres. A modern harbour, it boasts 5 star facilities for those wishing to spend some time on the marina. It is indeed very well equipped, offering extensive facilities for boaters, plus a wide range of bars, restaurants, supermarkets – all within a short distance of your mooring.
Travelling further afield, there is plenty to do and see. The beaches, of which the best is arguably Migjorn Illetes, offer expanses of soft white sand contrasting with dazzling blue seas.
Illetes, in the north of the island, is Formentera’s most fashionable beach. But it’s for those who like to keep it simple. There are no bars, sunbeds or showers – just a scattering of beach-hut restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat before heading back to your yacht.
If you enjoy an artisan’s market, check into El Pilar de la Mola on a Wednesday or Sunday afternoon. There’s a real bustling atmosphere here, where tourists and hippies alike congregate to enjoy this regular cultural treat!
Getting There
The Balearic Islands are just two hours plane journey from London. With a classic Mediterranean climate of mild winters and over 300 days of sunshine each year, there is much to recommend boating whatever time of year.
Service and Support
Princess Motor Yacht Sales and our Partners, offer complete support for Princess owners in the Balearics so that they can get the most from their boating and relax in the knowledge that their yacht is taken care of.
Our Services Include:
• Dedicated Support Through Your Personal Yacht Service Concierge
• 24/7 Service Helpline
• Transparent Pricing Structures
• Yacht Customisation Services through Princess Individual
• Yacht Guardiennage – Offering Year Round Care for Your Yacht
Princess Offices in the Balearics
Mallorca
Port Adriano, Porto Portals, Cala D’Or
Menorca
Port of Mahón
Ibiza
Santa Eulalia
Find out more about yachting in the Balearics, email Princess Motor Yacht Sales at [email protected] or call +34 971 676 439
