Sailing route in the Balearic Islands

The Majorcan coast is home to lots of beaches and anchor sites. You will find ports and sailing clubs all along coast, as well as boat rental companies. When sailing around Majorca you may like to know that currents are scarce, and during the summer months it is advisable to sail in an anti-clockwise direction to make the most of the winds.

It is the capital of Mallorca and an obligatory stop on the trip. In fact, it is such a complete destination that many choose this city to spend their entire vacation. If you dock in Palma and if you only have one day to visit, you should know that there are some key places to go.Firstly, take a pleasurable stroll towards the impressive Gothic Cathedral (renowned architect Gaudí was responsible for its renovation. Another highlight is the original work by the artist Miquel Barceló in the Santísimo Chapel). From here (and after enjoying the panoramic view of the bay and Parc de la Mar gardens), you'll love discovering La Almudaina Palace, the lBishop's Palace and the City Hall , rounding your walk off at the old merchant exchange. Bellver Castle is a little farther out. For the views alone, a visit to this monument that has protected the city since the 14th century is worth it.Culture lovers will be pleased to know they have the chance to visit the Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum, the March Palace and museum, and the Pilar and Joan Miró Foundation. And those who prefer shopping should direct their steps towards Borne, Unió Street, Plaza Weyler and Jaume III.And if you have time and feel like going to the beach before getting back on board, take a dip in one of the city's beaches, such as the famous Playa de Palma, with a host of shops, restaurants and nightclubs.

Departing the port of Palma de Mallorca, you can head to one of the most popular tourist spots on the island, the area of Porto Cristo (there are several mooring options such as the Port Cristo Yacht Club), which is home to the famous Caves of Drach with their large underground lake (the visit includes a classical music concert and a boat trip on the lake). Very close is the city of Manacor.If you continue towards the north, you can also visit the Caves of Artà and then head to Capdepera and be charmed by the Castle and Canyamel Tower. Just next door is Cala Ratjada, the easternmost point on the island. The lighthouse area offers impressive views and on clear days, you can even see Minorca. There are also several mooring options here such as Cala Ratjada marina or Cala Ratjada Yacht Club.Cala Mesquida, lies a little further to the north and is the perfect spot for a dip surrounded by a landscape of dunes and pine trees. Other coves worth visiting? Cala Torta, Cala Varques… The difficult thing is to choose.

The most tranquil spots are located to south of the island, making it easy to sail along the coast. Here are some the best unspoilt sand beaches and sites offering marvellous anchoring. A good starting point is Mondragó Nature Reserve, where you can take your first dip near Cala Figuera.Then comes an essential stop: Es Trenc beach is one of the best beaches in Majorca – it has not been developed, offers crystal-clear waters and is one of visitors' favourite spots.

In addition to the city of Palma, which we mentioned above, the north west of the island is home to the fascinating Serra de Tramuntana mountain landscape that is perfect for hikers and cyclists. The 100-kilometre mountain range runs parallel to the coast from the town of Andratx to the Cape of Formentor and has been a place of refuge for writers and painters for many years.  In fact, one of the great charms of Mallorca is being able to go from mountain landscapes to great beach landscapes in just a moment.Beyond the sailing experience, you can dedicate one or several days to get to know some of the most charming towns on the island and very close to each other: Valldemossa (with its pretty Carthusian monastery where Chopin and George Sand stayed), Deià (do not miss the views from the gardens of Son Marroig) and Sóller (did you know there is a period train with traditional wooden carriages that links Palma and Sóller on a track through mountains and valleys?). If you have time, you can head to the Lluc Shrine from Sóller.

Today we recommend starting from Pollença, with its mediaeval old town and busy port. And would you like a dip in beaches like Cala Murta?Alcúdia is nearby and is also home to a full-service marina. It is a pleasure to stroll around the walled old town where the Xara and Sant Sebastiá gates still stand, as well as taking a dip in the unspoilt local coves. Many recommend the Coll Baix cove. One option for anchoring near the bay of Alcúdia would be Es Caló, near Colònia de Sant Pere.For sunset it is best to go to Formentor, where you will find one of the most beautiful viewpoints in all of Spain: Es Colomer.The following day you can leave the north east of the island and discover the coastal town of Can Picafort, the Shrine of Betlem and bid farewell to the Mediterranean at Cala Mitjana.

Excursion to Cabrera. If you have more days in your stay, we recommend an unmissable excursion. From Colònia de Sant Jordi, at the southern tip of Mallorca, tourist boats (called golondrinas) sail to Cabrera Archipelago Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, a place of untamed nature where you can feel far away from the world. To navigate, anchor or dive along the coast, you must request electronic authorization through the following link.Cultural and sports agenda. Majorca hosts major cultural events such as the Deià International Music Festival or the Pollença International Classical Music Festival, and important sailing competitions such as the Princesa Sofía Trophy or the Mapfre Copa del Rey Regatta.Almond trees in bloom. Majorca also offers ideas for enjoying the island all year round. If you go at the end of January or beginning of February, don't miss the flowering of the almond trees.Gastronomy. Majorca is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants that are perfect to savour some of the best dishes on the island.

Palma de Mallorca has one of the most important airports in Spain, only eight kilometres outside the city and getting you to the main European airports in only two hours' time.By sea, the main ports of Mallorca are Palma and Alcúdia. In addition, there are several companies in charge of maritime transport between islands.

Fornells Bay and the port of Maó are recommended places to start sailing, because they are large areas with a constant breeze but at the same time protected from the high seas. In Menorca, you will find companies that offer navigation courses both for beginners and to perfect the technique.

We begin the trip through one of the quietest islands in the Balearic Islands, known as the island of the wind, and the second largest after Mallorca. To the east of the island you will find Maó (Mahón), the capital of Menorca, one of the largest natural ports in the world and a good starting point to begin your stay there.It is one of the buzziest spots on the island, a destination for cruise ships and the perfect city to have a drink or do some shopping. Life centres mainly around the harbour, which you can see for yourself on a stroll around the Plaça d'es Peix fish market square or the market known as El Claustro del Carmen. Highlights also includes San Roque Bridge, the church of Santa María and the Museum of Minorca. The historical military buildings should not be overlooked, including La Mola Fortress and Marlborough Fort.By the way, for great views of the La Mola Fortress it is advisable to go to the highest points of the nearby town of Es Castell.

We suggest mooring your boat and starting the day off in the charming town of Binibeca. It imitates the architecture of old angling villages and wandering the streets until you reach the sea is a real pleasure. Make sure not to forget your camera.From here you can head to Cales Coves. Get ready to take a swim surrounded by a rock landscape that was actually a spectacular prehistoric necropolis. It is a very special place.The day cannot end anywhere but at Cova d'en Xoroi, which offers one of the best views of the sunset on the island. These caves are open until dawn and give you the option of looking out onto a spectacular viewpoint, having a drink, dancing the night away... a place you can't miss. 

Today we head to the area of the island that tends to be photographed the most, with its typical coves (surrounded by forests and cliffs, fine sand and crystal-clear waters where boats seem to just levitate).The best-known coves begin in the area of Ciutadella and continue towards the east: Son Saura beach, Cala en Turqueta, Cala Macarella, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Galdana, Cala Mitjana, Cala Trebalúger...Another good spot to end the day is Cap d'Artrutx and the area around the lighthouse. While you have a drink on the terrace next to the lighthouse or from your own boat, you will calmly watch the sun set.

Many people dedicate only one day of their vacation to get to know the north of the island. But we think there's so much to see that you should set aside two days, if possible. This is the north, where the landscape changes, becoming more reddish, wild, and strong – for many, this is nature in its purest form. Also keep in mind that the coast is steeper due to the Tramontana storms that sometimes pass through.If you start in the north west, a good departure point is Punta Nati, where the historic lighthouse will charm you. Afterwards, you can head to the spectacular beaches of Cala Pilar and Algaiarens.As you move towards the east, you'll come across Cala Pregonda (one of the most beautiful and least busy on the island) and Cavalleria, where the beach and incredible lighthouse are a must-see.Further along is Cala Tirant, near the town of Fornells, where you should not only moor in the port to discover the charming town, but also eat a delicious lobster stew in one of the restaurants.The excursion through the north ends in a magical place: the area of the Favàritx Lighthouse. A sunset here is simply unforgettable. 

We have left one of the prettiest cities on the island and former capital for the last day: Ciutadella. Taking a walk through its center with its palaces, its Cathedral and alleys and through its charming port (where, by the way, the food is wonderful) is a real pleasure. Make sure you see the vantage point behind the town hall. If you are lucky enough to be there on 23rd and 24th June, you can take part in the Sant Joan festivities, where horses and their riders travel through the city.Depending on the type of boat you have chosen for your trip and the speed it reaches, you may like to dedicate a whole day of sailing to go from Maó to Ciutadella.We have not forgotten the interior of the island, which in fact has a lot of interesting places that you can visit if, in addition to traveling by sailboat, you choose to rent a car or a motorcycle. For example, the Naveta des Tudons (the best-known funeral monument on the island), Ferreries, Es Mercadal, Monte Toro (the highest point on the island) and Alaior are all worth a visit.

Nature. Enjoy the nature of Menorca to the fullest. It is so special that in 1993 UNESCO declared the island as Biosphere Reserve. Hiking enthusiasts cannot miss the Camí de Cavalls: An approved and signposted route that allows you to go around the island along the coast.Horse riding. Horses are the main attraction of many festivals on the island, which also has several clubs and schools where you can enjoy this passion.Cultural calendars Ciudatella hosts several cultural events such as the Menorca International Jazz Festival or the Summer Music Festival.

Mahón is home to Minorca airport and the island can be reached from lots of international destinations.By sea, the main ports are Maó and Ciutadella de Menorca. In addition, there are several companies in charge of maritime transport between islands. 

Before heading out sailing, we think it's a good idea to find out what the capital has to offer (Eivissa, or Ibiza Town, has different mooring options at the marina or yacht club). In the upper part of the city of Eivissa is Dalt Vila, where we almost ran out of words to describe its impressive walled enclosure, which was declared World Heritage by UNESCO. You will love walking through the alleys and discovering monuments such as the Castle or the Cathedral, or places such as the Madina Yabisa Visitor Centre. Not to mention the sea views… The main entrance to the historic complex is the Portal de Ses Taules drawbridge.There are other interesting spots outside the city walls such as the Puig des Molins necropolis (used as a cemetery for over 1,000 years), the Plaça del Parc, the busy Port of Ibiza (with its market and terraces) and beaches such as Talamanca or Platja d'en Bossa.And if you like to party, a good night in Ibiza ends at one of the world famous nightclubs. Remember: nights on the island are legendary throughout the world.

To the west of the island you will find one of its most beautiful places: the Natural Reserve of Es Vedrà, Es Vedranell and the Poniente islets. It is a captivating spot that is worth the trip just to see the shadow cast by Es Vedrà over the sea and, if possible, to contemplate the sunset from your boat. The town of Sant Josep de Sa Talaia is nearby, alongside some of the most spectacular beaches in the area with crystal-clear turquoise waters such as Cala d'Hort (a great spot to anchor and take a dip) or Platges de Comte.Heading north is Sant Antoni de Portmany, marina, a great spot to anchor in the bay or moor and have dinner or go for a stroll around the bay to Es Caló d'es Moro to enjoy one of the most renowned sunsets in the world. Many people choose to spend this moment at the emblematic Café del Mar, although going on your own boat you may prefer to enjoy it from there.Also a little farther north and moving inland is the interesting small town of Santa Agnès de Corona. It is a great place to visit in winter, specifically in January and February, when the hundreds of almond trees blossom. 

If you are looking for a good place to take a dip in the north of the island, you should head to Cala Benirrás It is a special spot not just for its beach but also as in summer you can experience first-hand the most hippy side of the island at the Benirrás Drum Party on Sunday afternoons. Here you can spend the rest of the day or even anchor at night in this cove.Benirrás is near the town of Sant Joan de Labritja, where you can take trips to the surrounding towns, the fortified tower of Balanzat or the nearby caves of Marçà set inside a cliff. Also just a stone's throw away is Cala Xuclar – the perfect spot for snorkelling fans and just two kilometres from the tourist area of Portinatx. Precisely to the north of Portinatx you may like to go to the Faro des Moscarter, the highest in the Balearic Islands.

To the east of the island you will find a quieter type of tourism, but also paradisiacal beaches, charming towns and seafood cuisine. You will love discovering Santa Eulària des Riu, strolling the cobbled streets of Es Puig de Missa and visiting the Ethnography Museum.When it comes to taking a swim, among the most emblematic coves are Es Figueral, Cala Boix, Cala Llenya, Cala Nova, Es Canar, Cala Martina, Sárgamassa, Cala Pada and Cala Llonga and a little further north is Aigües Blanques ( one of the best places to take a natural mud bath, which they claim detoxifies the skin) or in Cala Sant Vicent.There are also idyllic marine nooks such as Pou d'es Lleó. You can also leave the boat behind and head to Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera, a town with original shops, artisan products and antiques where it is worth stopping for dinner.We cannot fail to mention the famous Las Dalias Market in this part of the island (in Sant Carles de Paralta), which is held every Saturday and welcomes thousands of visitors between May and October. There you will find jewelry, antiques, Adlib clothing (a typical style of clothing from Ibiza)... A must-see!

Lastly we head to Ses Salines Nature Reserve, renowned for its underwater meadows of Neptune grass - a type of seabed plant that is only found in the Mediterranean basin and which helps keep the water crystal-clear. It is a perfect spot for scuba diving. You can also enjoy the beaches of Cavallet and Salines here.In addition, it is a very fashionable area in summer for celebrities and to enjoy the nightlife. If you like, you can also discover the Phoenician settlement of Sa Caleta (a World Heritage site), the 16th-century Sal Rossa watchtower or be amazed by the colours at the salt lakes. And if you want to finish on a high note, by going partying, in the south of the island you will find some of the most legendary nightclubs, such as Ushuaïa.

Regattas. Ibiza plays host to sporting competitions such as the prestigious Ruta de la Sal Regatta. Fiestas. Try to attend an event like the Medieval Festival in Ibiza or the Festivals of the Earth.Active leisure. Active leisure alternatives available on the island include horse riding, organised outings by moonlight and mountain bike trails.

Sant Josep airport is located in the south of the island and has direct flights to the Spanish mainland and Europe.If you travel by sea, Ibiza has three important ports: The port of Ibiza, the port of Santa Eulària and the port of Sant Antoni. In addition to regular passenger transport lines, it can be accessed by private boats, charters and cruises.

Formentera is situated 2 nautical miles from Ibiza, although the distance between the ports of Ibiza and La Savina is 12 miles. Once there, the island offers 69 kilometres of coastline, beaches with crystal-clear waters and the chance to enjoy all types of water sports. La Savina (to the north of the island) has a full-service marine with everything you could possibly need for sailing.On organised sailing trips that combine Ibiza and Formentera for a week, the Formentera usually takes about two days.

You should be aware that the Ses Salines Nature Reserve, we mentioned in our Ibiza tour also extends to the north of Formentera where, of course, the Neptune grass meadows are also renowned. The Estany des Peix lake is also on the north west of the island - a small lagoon that opens out to the sea and where small vessels may anchor. It is ideal for practicing water sports with shallow-draft boats.You will also love taking a dip at Ses Illetes beach in the north, which is perfect for all types of water sports. There are maritime services that connect this area with La Savina port and the island of Espalmador (renowned for its mud baths and a great place to set anchor for the night). Did you know that Ses Illetes beach has been chosen as the best in Spain on several occasions? At the northern tip of the island, you will also like Llevant beach.

A highlight on the west coast is Cala Saona, which although only measuring 140 metres is one of the most beautiful coves and perfect for anchoring.Sant Francesc Xavier is the island's capital and ideal to visit and see the centenary church, stroll around the shops, buy some local handicrafts and end the day savouring a typical dish in one of the local restaurants.Before nightfall you can return to the port of Port Formentera Marina, fully equipped and a good place to spend the night.

A second day can begin on board the sailboat or again in Sant Francesc Xavier. The Cap de Barbaria lighthouse is nearby, to the south-west of the island. Many people choose this point when the sun begins to set.If what you're looking for is the beach however, the famous Migjorn sands are in the south of the island. The beach is one of the largest on the island and the Es Pi des Català tower is not far away. The well-known Es Arenals beach is also in the Migjorn area. Migjorn Beach is an ideal place to practice water sports, although it must be taken into account that when anchoring it is best to anchor the sailboat 100 meters from the shore, since there are rocks parallel to the coast.

Let's move on to culture. The most spectacular megalithic tomb in the Balearic Islands is found on the north-east of the island: Ca na Costa dates back to the early Bronze Age. You can also head to Es Pujols and the night-time market.Make sure not to miss the windmill in Pilar de la Mola and handicrafts market in La Mola to the east. It is the star open-air market on the island and there from May to October on Wednesdays and Sundays you will find unique pieces made by artisans from all over the world and you will enjoy live music, jugglers...And finally, another legendary lighthouse on the island, this time at the eastern end and at the highest point. We're talking about La Mola lighthouse, which is even said to have served as an inspiration for the writer Jules Verne. 

Being a small and accessible island, a good option may be to explore it partly on foot or by bicycle to see its pine forests, its salt flats and its rural interior. In fact, Formentera has an entire network of green trails.

Formentera does not have an airport, it can only be reached by boat from Ibiza. Once in Ibiza, to reach the port of La Savina in Formentera there are several shipping companies that make trips every day of the week. The journey is about 25 minutes.