Going to be in Mallorca for 4 nights in mid June but have no idea where to stay. We are a couple and primarily going for beaches and to relax, not partiers but are looking to explore the capital Palma at least for 1 day.
Additionally, is a rental car required and is it easy to drive? I saw some of the winding roads online look a little intimidating. Though, I have driven in Greece last year which may be similar (in Milos, Paros, Athens -> Nafplio and back, Nafplio -> Hydra, etc.)
For me the rugged northern coast is best. If you want to stay somewhere in that area and not hire a car then I’d suggest the ‘tram’ (more like a train, but…) to Soller. Bus from airport connects to (tiny) station in Palma. So easy to travel back and forth between Palma and Soller. Separate tram in Soller connects to Puerto Soller on the coast for beaches. Also good hiking in hills behind Soller and on the coast.
If you decide to hire a car you could look at staying at Valdemossa or Deia (lovely small beach). Deia used to be the haunt of celebrities some years ago, but I’m not sure it is now. Also you can drive to or bus to Puerto Pollensa a more traditional beach resort in the north east of the island.
Ian
I too like the Tramantuna mountains area where the villages of Soller, Deia and Valdemossa are nestled however the roads are winding although I've never found them an issue. Mallorca is a favourite among cyclists and you can find yourself stuck behind a group if they're cycling uphill.
The train that Ian referred to that runs from Palma to Soller is an old wooden train that was originally used to transport citrus fruit from Soller to Palma. It's now a tourist attraction and whilst the journey is very picturesque with fantastic scenery it is a bit pricey and isn't really an option for travel between Palma and Soller. A car is ideal and the island is very easy to drive on but if the mountain roads put you off then a good option would be Puerto Pollensa as Ian suggested.
I spent a week last summer in Mallorca and it was one of the best parts of my trip. Mallorca has everything, big city, mountains and beaches all in one manageable island. A rental car is required if you really want to see the mountains and probably would make your beach time easier. The most popular beaches seem to be the north shore around Alcudia and Can Picafort. Lots of other smaller beaches can be found all around the island if you want a more relaxed feel, but the smaller ones can actually fill up much faster simply due to the lack of beach space. I would recommend picking up a rental car when you land and at least driving through some of the mountains in the west to get to the northern shore. The views are spectacular. If you return your car a day before you leave, you could spend that time exploring Palma, which is really lovely too. Stay in the city center near the cathedral to be able to see all the sights in one afternoon.
Thanks for suggestions everyone! Ended up booking a hotel in Puerto Pollensa and we will also rent a car to explore the rest of the island.
