The golden shores of Mallorca play host to countless travellers from all over the world. This stunning island is filled with history, beaches and natural wonders which makes it a highly desired destination. But the east coast in particular is truly enchanting, offering a more authentic experience that contrasts with the all-inclusive resorts that are now commonplace on the island.
In this article, we highlight the best places to visit on the east coast of Mallorca. We showcase some incredible historical sites like Capdepera Castle as well as highlight some of the best beaches in this region. Lastly, we investigate some of the best places to visit in Eastern Mallorca for outdoor activities, which will appeal to nature enthusiasts and active travellers alike.
So read on to discover what amazing experiences await you on the east coast of Mallorca.
The east coast of Mallorca has a more laid-back vibe than the popular resorts found on the north coast. This makes it a great place for travellers who prefer backpacking over all-inclusive holidays. One of the best reasons to visit the east coast of Mallorca is the fascinating historical sites which shed light on the island’s past.
One of the most mesmerising sites in Mallorca is the Caves of Drach, situated in the coastal town of Porto Cristo. These subterranean caves are truly fascinating and are renowned for their spectacular stalactite formations. Exploring this earthly wonder is one of the best things to do in Mallorca and is a highlight of the East Coast.
What is most surprising about the Caves of Drach is the underground lake that visitors can explore. The serene body of water is beautiful in its own right, but what’s more, you can attend a classical music concert on the water’s edge. Listening to the delightful orchestra as the music reverberates through the chamber is a truly magical experience.
The best way to experience the caves is on a guided tour, as you will be led through 1.2 km of tunnels and formations. Your guide will be able to point out key features like the Chamber of Luis Salvador as well as provide more insight into how the caves were formed. We’d also suggest that you wear comfortable, sturdy footwear and the cave floors can be uneven and slippery/
If you’d prefer to stay above ground then be sure to stop into the charming town of Capdepera. Situated on the northeast coast of Mallorca, this lovely town features one of the most significant ancient structures on the island. Capdepera Castle is a 14th-century fortress that was constructed to protect residents from pirate attacks.
The medieval fortress is one of the best places to visit on Mallorca’s east coast to learn more about the island’s interesting history. It has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest by the Spanish government which gives it maximum protection. Capdepera Castle is open year-round, which makes it a great place to visit in Mallorca no matter when you choose to visit.
There is not much remaining in Capdepera Castle, as it fell into ruin after the 16th Century. However, the castle’s position at the top of the mountain offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. You can reach the top by climbing the steps from the market square in town and enjoying the impeccable views of the coastline and the Menorca Channel.
A trip to Mallorca is not complete without spending time soaking up the Mediterranean sun on the golden shores. The east coast has some spectacular beaches which beg to be visited. Whether you want to jump into thrilling watersports or relax in a secluded cove, you are certain to find the right beach on Mallorca’s east coast.
One of the largest and most popular beaches on Mallorca’s east coast, Cala Millor is characterised by soft white sands and inviting azure waters. This purpose-built resort town is a major Mallorca hotspot for families and tourists. The beach at Cala Millor stretches for over 2 km, giving you plenty of space to lounge on the coastline.
There is a lively promenade with shops and restaurants, offering a welcome escape from the scorching sun. You will find a variety of shops selling local crafts, fashions and souvenirs which is an excellent way to break up your beach trip. Likewise, you will find some fabulous restaurants and eateries within the town serving both local and international dishes.
Cala Millor is one of the best beaches in Mallorca for watersports and you will find a variety of operators on the shore. From paddleboarding to kayaking through caves, there are all sorts of wonderful beach activities that will appeal to all visitors. If you’d prefer to stay on dry land there are a handful of family attractions like mini golf and go-karting, which offer endless entertainment.
If you want a more secluded beach in Mallorca, then Cala Varques is the place for you. Accessed by a short hike, the pristine beach is less crowded than others and offers a tranquil setting to enjoy the beachside ambience. Its private location gives it a romantic feel, making it a great place to visit in Mallorca for couples.
The beach is surrounded by pine forests and verdant cliffs which gives the area a more natural feel. Due to its relative remoteness, the waters at Cala Varques are crystal clear. This makes it one of the best beaches in Mallorca for snorkelling and swimming, as the exceptional visibility allows you to observe the local marine life in its natural habitat.
What makes Cala Varques one of the best beaches on the east coast of Mallorca are the presence of small caves and coves, which will add a hint of adventure to your visit. You can explore more of these coves on a boat trip, discovering the hidden wonders of the island.
Unlike the other beaches we’ve mentioned, Cala Mesquida is a protected area known for its outstanding beauty. It has a much more natural atmosphere, with golden sand dunes and is less built up than beaches like Cala Millor. This makes it a haven for nature lovers who want to experience the wild east coast of Mallorca.
The nearest town to Cala Mesquida is Capdepera, which is about 7 kilometres away. The beach itself stretches for 350 metres, with clear waters and fine sand. There are sunbeds and umbrellas available for hire which means you can fully relax under the Balearic sun. There is also a small restaurant on the beach, but you might want to bring your own drinks and snacks for your visit.
Eastern Mallorca is a haven for anyone seeking outdoor adventures and natural attractions. This part of the island boasts some incredible natural parks and reserves which are perfect for hiking and taking note of the endemic wildlife. From mountain walks to bird watching on Cabrera Island, there is so much to do on the east coast of Mallorca.
Found on the southeast of the island, Parc Natural de Mondragó features a variety of landscapes from sand dunes to dense woodlands. The diverse ecosystems are ideal for exploration and provide unique insight into the local flora and fauna. The natural park is situated near the town of s’Alqueria Blanca and covers nearly 766 hectares, so there is plenty to explore.
A great place to start your visit to Parc Natural de Mondragó is the Visitor’s Centre. Here, you will find plenty of information about the local wildlife and ecology, as well as maps of the walking trails. You can also learn about the park’s conservation efforts and learn more about how you can do your part to protect the natural beauty.
There are some exceptional hiking trails in the park that will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. These trails are well signposted and will take you along the gorgeous coast as well as into the pine forests and rocky cliffs. The untouched natural wonder is truly striking and offers a welcome escape from the dense resort areas.
About 10 km south of Mallorca, lies the rugged island of Cabrera. It is part of the Cabrera Archipelago Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, which was established to conserve the unique wildlife of the region. It is one of the best places to visit on the east coast of Mallorca for bird watching as it is home to a variety of avian species.
Cabrera Island is an important breeding ground and habitat for birds like Eleonora’s Falcons and the Balearic Shearwater. You can explore different areas of the island to find different species of birds, but the rocky cliffs are the best place to see them. Alternatively, you can take a boat trip around Cabrera to see storm petrels and gulls diving for fish in the crystalline waters.
On your visit to the island, you can also explore the historic 14th Century Cabrera Castle. The castle was originally constructed to defend the island from pirate attacks and has since been partially reconstructed. If you climb to the top you can take in majestic views of the surrounding landscape and may even catch a glimpse of seabirds soaring over the horizon.
While not technically on the east coast, the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range is easily accessible from major towns like Port de Pollença. This delightful UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with hiking trails and quaint villages which make it ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
The mountain range extends along the northwest coast of Mallorca but can be reached from the east coast of the island. You can complete hiking routes like GR-221 which are accessible from the eastern side of the mountain range. However, to explore the villages and other routes you may need to organise transport or book a guided tour.
The east coast of Mallorca has some truly captivating places to visit, that add so much value beyond staying in an all-inclusive resort. The historical wonders of Capdepera Castle and the Caves of Drach provide unique opportunities to explore Mallorca’s fascinating heritage. Likewise, the golden beaches of the east coast are perfect for relaxing under the sun. Cala Varques in particular will appeal to those seeking a serene beach setting.
Travellers who enjoy outdoor adventures will be delighted to visit Parc Natural de Mondragó and Cabrera Island, where there are rugged trails and colourful wildlife. You can also explore the vast range of Serra de Tramuntana, but it will require some extra travel.
With all this in mind, the east coast of Mallorca is the perfect place for an unforgettable holiday. With sun, sand and an array of things to do, you will be besotted by this Balearic island.
Have you been considering a trip to Mallorca? Check out our other guides like The 11 Best Things to Do in Soller and Ibiza or Mallorca – Which Should You Visit for more great travel advice.
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