Uncover the beauty of the Balearics

We know what you’re thinking. Ibiza is Spain’s Mecca for hen and stag weekends and those under 30 in search of a snooze-filled day and booze-fuelled night. It’s perfectly equipped for that style of holiday – for superclubs try Pacha, Amnesia and Ushuaia - but there is so much more to the white isle.

Bohemian living
Away from the world-famous nightlife and high-rise hotels, there are a wealth of luxury boutique resorts which are spread across the breadth of the island. Known for attracting free spirits, the bohemian side to Ibiza is typically on its north coast, where you can shop the Sunday craft market in San Juan, paddle around the fishermen’s huts at Cal Xuclar and practise sun salutations within dedicated yoga retreats.

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On the east coast is Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay a beachside boutique property that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle and yet is only a short walk from Marina Botafoch and Ibiza Town, along with their hordes of shops and restaurants. Within a similar distance is Ibiza Gran Hotel. A hotspot for dining and sophisticated evenings, here you'll find Zuma, Cipriani Downtown Ibiza and Park Chinois. 

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At the heart of it all is Six Senses Ibiza, a modern property built into the rocky cliffs. It boasts a spa that pioneers wellness and a range of luxury accommodation including cave suites, residences and mansions that have up to 10 bedrooms. The hotel is also home to four dining destinations so that guests will never go hungry.

Calla Bassa Beach Club
Discover haute cuisine at Chiringo CBbC restaurant then retire to your bali-bed, toes in the sand, overlooking the ocean.

Blue Marlin
For day-to-night dining, creative cocktails and world-renowned DJs, Blue Marlin is your go-to beachside destination. 

Amante
Perched on a cliff overlooking Sol Den Serra Bay, this modern Mediterranean restaurant also has a private outdoor beach cinema.

Uncover enchanting towns 
Beyond the capital, Mallorca has a wealth of handsome towns and none are more picturesque than Sóller. Soaked in the scent of citrus, be sure to try a freshly squeezed glass of the town’s most famous product, the orange, while perusing the cobbled streets that are lined with cafés, restaurants and shops showcasing local artisans. If you’re a foodie, head to Porto Pollensa where you'll discover multiple Michelin-starred restaurants while those who want to travel like the A-list should head to Deiá and stay at the exclusive La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel.

Coastal Charm
Mallorca is spoilt with luxury five-star resorts, most perched high on cliffs or within a stone’s throw of a sandy beach. Ikos Porto Petro offers a stunning beachfront location with an award-winning all inclusive dining concept and onsite spa while The St. Regis Mardavall is ideal for golfers located within 15 minutes of three exceptional courses. Oh, and in summer 2023 a brand new Virgin Limited Collection hotel will open in Serra de Tramuntana.

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Situated in one of the most secluded parts of Mallorca's bay, Cap Rocat is set within a 30-acre nature reserve and was restored from a former military fortress. It is now a luxurious five-star hotel featuring private pool rooms, two Mediterranean inspired restaurants and relaxing spa. 

Winged Boots’ MD David Ox enjoyed a family holiday on board a Sunseeker 86.

“In August 2022, my family and I set sail for seven days around Mallorca’s scenic coast. Starting in Puerto Portals, six adults and my two-year old son Otis, boarded Blue Infinity, a Sunseeker 86 Yacht, along with four crew. 

“After spending the first night in Portals, we sailed to Sant Elm then on to Port Soller where we docked for the evening. Next, we visited Andratx before heading to Beach Club Gran Folies in Cala Llamp for lunch and back to Soller where we laid anchor. If you get a chance to visit Gran Folies, try the fresh catch of the day. The red snapper was exceptional.

“We also visited Es Trenc. My son loved the golden beach, while the men raced jet skis and tried to keep our balance on flyboards. Overall, the trip was incredible and we're already planning another Balearics yacht holiday for 2023.

“We booked our yacht through MEROS who were faultless. The crew were spectacular and personally I think this is a fantastic experience for multigenerational family holidays, or even groups of couples marking a milestone. It's an economical way to dip your toe into yacht ownership and boating holidays."

Don’t be fooled by this island's size, the best things are said to come in small packages after all. Inland, Menorca is typically rural with quaint villages, criss-crossing fields and rolling hillsides. Along the coast, however, are miles upon miles of soft sandy beaches, lined with resorts that offer everything you need for a short haul summer holiday.

Life's a beach
Menorca’s total square foot of beach is more than Ibiza and Mallorca’s combined, so if you like to feel the sand between your toes this is certainly the island for you. There are a whopping 96 in total, each unspoiled with some offering hidden sandy coves. For the most private, try the north of the island where Cala Pregonda is often tipped as the best offering postcard views and snorkelling opportunities. It's closely followed by the remote Cala Presili that has an impressive lighthouse for a neighbour and Cala Mesquida that provides powder-soft sand, parking, toilets and lifeguards, plus delicious gelato from the local beach van.

Keep boredom at bay
Away from its sun-bleached shore, Menorca also has a wealth of things to do to keep all visitors engaged. There are great hiking and cycling trails, the still waters make for perfect kayaking afternoons and you can sample the good stuff at a local vineyard. And let’s not forget the impressive scuba diving, exciting horseback riding and a fantastic waterpark for the big kids!

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If you want to be close to the action, then stay at Faustino Gran Relais & Chateaux. It's located opposite the port of Ciutadella and offers an intimate stay with just 56 rooms, nine luxurious suites and a spacious villa. And with several pools, gym, hamman and spa onsite, it's the TLC retreat you want and deserve.