While Mallorca is popular with British tourists, but I found it still has plenty of peaceful corners where I could escape the crowds. Over the years, I’ve explored the island on scenic road trips and holidays — flying into Palma, renting a car, and staying in everything from rustic fincas to boutique beach hotels. Here are my 17 favourite hidden gems…
1. Puerto Pollensa
I personally thought stylish but unpretentious Puerto Pollensa was one of the island’s most peaceful resorts! There were tourists here, but I discovered that it had remained relatively unspoiled thanks to strict building regulations, so it had no ugly high-rises or loud nightlife, just a relaxed, small-town charm and more of a local feel.
It took me just over an hour to drive here from Palma Airport through pine forests and mountain foothills, and I found it tucked into a serene horseshoe-shaped bay once used by fishermen — I even saw small boats still unloading their catch!
I enjoyed a very blissful week wandering the pine-shaded promenade, kicking back on the soft golden sands beneath the soaring Serra de Tramuntana peaks, dining in laid-back cafés and seafront restaurants, hiking thyme and juniper scented mountain trails, and shopping for watermelons, olives and souvenirs in the popular local market.
Staying at the chic 4-star Hoposa Pollentia, I loved its boho vibe with rattan lights, macramé wall hangings, and soft earthy tones. Lounging in the poolside cabanas with the sound of waves lapping the beach just steps away felt blissfully serene!
2. Deià
I was utterly enchanted by Deià — a breathtaking mountain village that’s managed to keep its unique, old-world charm intact! Nestled in the Tramuntana Mountains, I found honey-stone houses, quaint cobbled lanes and traditional olive terraces because it was protected by strict building rules that thankfully kept big, brash resorts from being developed here.
I loved how it attracted quiet, creative souls rather than big, noisy crowds, with its serene atmosphere, artsy vibe, and breathtaking coastal views, it felt both intimate and romantic. I found that Deià owed its fame to poet Robert Graves, who settled here in the 1930s and drew a dazzling crowd of artists and celebrities — from Ava Gardner to Mick Jagger!
Driving 20 minutes from my previous stop at Estellencs through olive groves and rustic villages, I found it perfectly perched above the glistening Mediterranean Sea.
I spent an extraordinary week visiting Graves’ hillside home, soaking up the cliff views at the spectacular Casa Museo de Son Marroig, dining in stylish restaurants, sipping on matcha lattes at the legendary Sa Fonda café in Deià (once a hangout for musicians and artists) and unwinding on Cala Deià’s tranquil beach! I’ll be honest — the beach wasn’t exactly comfy with lots of huge stones, but it felt so beautifully untouched that I loved it anyway!
Staying at the gorgeous 4-star Es Moli Hotel in a restored 17th-century stone mansion, I loved its vintage charm — the scent of polished wood, terracotta floors, and wrought-iron lamps — and also the dreamy hilltop views over olive groves and the sea!
3. Sóller
I found it hard not to fall for the picturesque resort of Sóller — a peaceful more low-key escape tucked in the Tramuntana Mountains with quiet charm and an unspoiled, small-town feel! I admired how it’s stayed as authentic as it possibly could, it felt very far from the party crowds in the island’s south, with its narrow cobbled streets, rustic Mallorcan architecture, and historic sites preserved by strict limits on large-scale development.
From my previous stop in Pollença, I returned to Palma and took the charming vintage train to Sóller — an hour-long ride through tunnels and fragrant orange groves that felt like a step back in time. There were tourists here, but the town wonderfully balanced natural beauty with a relaxed, local buzz!
I spent a lovely easygoing week here exploring the leafy main square and bustling harbour, wandering the peaceful Jardí Botànic, hiking the pine-cloaked Tramuntana hills, lazing on the pale sandy beach, strolling the pretty promenade, visiting the organic Ecovinyassa farm (and trying zesty lemon-lavender and aromatic fig-rosemary jams) and dining each evening in stylish, family-run restaurants.
Staying at the wonderful 4-star Bikini Island & Mountain, I loved its chic boho design and dreamy spa, especially the aromatherapy massage with locally infused orange blossom, wild rosemary, and almond oils!
4. Portocolom
Once a humble fishing village, now a charming resort, Portocolom has impressively dodged mass tourism — I loved its traditional harbour lined with colourful boats, weathered Mallorcan houses, and a wonderfully slow-paced, local feel.
Tucked on the eastern coast in the municipality of Felanitx, it wasn’t a glitzy place — it had little nightlife but plenty of history, character, and a wonderfully tucked-away feel. I learned it had long been a haven for literary and artistic figures — and after visiting, I could see why!
Driving an hour and 10 minutes from Palma through quiet countryside and sleepy villages, I packed a lot into my short break — coastal strolls, exploring the colourful old town, relaxing on family-friendly Cala Marçal beach, visiting the historic lighthouse, enjoying waterfront dinners, snorkelling, and wine tasting at rustic local wineries. I even took a boat trip to discover hidden coves and visit the nearby prehistoric burial site, Naveta, which dated back to 2,000 BC!
My favourite highlights…
Staying at the heavenly Barefoot Hotel – I loved the trendy boho design (natural wood accents, jute rugs, and linen canopies) and the luxury onsite spa with came with a Turkish bath with mosaic tiles and eucalyptus steam!
5. Cala Figuera
I thought Cala Figuera was a real gem — a postcard-perfect fishing village with rugged cliffs, whitewashed houses, and boats bobbing on ultra-clear turquoise waters. Unlike Mallorca’s busier resorts, it had a tranquil, authentic atmosphere that made me feel like I’d stepped back in time.
With no beach to draw the crowds, it had thankfully escaped mass tourism, luring visitors like me who came for its nostalgic charm, coastal trails, and cosy, family-run eateries.
I drove 40 minutes south from my previous stop at Portocolom before looping back to Palma after my five day stay. I lapped up just wandering the pretty harbour, dining by the sea, hiking to the clifftop Torre d’en Beu lighthouse which had postcard-worthy views, taking a boat trip to secret coves, and snorkelling at the small, sandy Cala Santanyí, a gorgeous beach which was just a five minute drive away.
This was such a romantic and elegant spot — once praised for its beauty by Chopin during his stay! I admired how it had managed to escape modern sprawl, radiating old-world charm in every corner.
Perched high in the Tramuntana Mountains, its stone houses, flower-draped lanes, and olive groves framed by misty peaks gave it a quietly stylish allure that made it irresistible to visit — and even harder to leave!
I drove 30 minutes from my previous stop in Deià and my five day break was spent here was wonderfully different to an average Majorcan holiday. I visited the majestic Royal Charterhouse, went café-hopping and tucking into pillowy Coca de patata, hiking rockrose-dotted mountain trails, exploring the pretty Sa Marina port, discovering the manicured Jardins Rei Joan Carles and retracing the romantic footsteps of Chopin and George Sand!
Staying at the beautiful Hotel Valldemossa, I loved its romantic hillside setting, the charming 19th-century stone building, and the exceptional onsite Japanese-Peruvian restaurant – especially the glossy miso-glazed aubergine adorned with sesame!
7. Port d’Andratx
I fell for the stylish but quiet Port d’Andratx (which also doubled as a celebrity haunt)! Its luxury-yacht filled marina, laid-back luxury, and refined, low-key vibe gave it a unique elegance that’s kept the rowdy tourist crowds at bay – it was an easy-on-the eye haven for more calm-seeking and discerning travellers.
I discovered it on the southwestern coast, it was an intimate place was home to a pretty harbour, traditional Mediterranean-style buildings, and modern whitewashed villas perched on the surrounding hills. It didn’t have its own beach (which also kept the tourist crowds away!) but it was close to several sandy beaches which were less than a 10 minute drive away.
I drove in just under 40 minutes from Palma Airport and stayed for a week. My time here was just dreamy – harbour strolls, sea-view dining (I loved the aromatic truffle noodles, and the bruschetta at Restaurante Grand Pasta), boutique browsing, boat trips to tucked-away coves, Tramuntana mountain hikes, and lazy beach days at nearby exclusive Cala Llamp and elegant Camp de Mar!
Staying at the elegant 4-star Mon Port Hotel & Spa, I adored its arched colonnades, terracotta tiles, and neutral tones, and its mountain-framed harbour setting. The Royal Rose Hammam Ritual — a rose-infused steam, exfoliation, and argan oil massage was a stand-out spa experience!
8. Pollenca
Historic and arty Pollenca really left an impression on me! Set at the base of the Tramuntana Mountains, this inland town had clearly chosen cultural richness and tradition over mass tourism. I adored its laid-back, creative energy, surrounded by mountain beauty and an artistic spirit that’s long drawn writers, musicians, and painters.
Peacefully tucked in the island’s north, there was no beach but it was full of charm — rustic stone buildings with terracotta roofs, cobbled lanes with colourful shutters, pretty plazas, and cosy cafés.
I drove 10 minutes south from my previous stop at Puerto Pollensa along a quiet road lined with orchards and stone farmhouses, checked into the stylish 4-star Mon Boutique Hotel, and spent five gorgeous days exploring.
I wandered historic streets, crossed the old Roman bridge, climbed the 365 Calvari Steps and saw Insta-worthy views, browsed local cute galleries, and shopped at the buzzy Sunday market in Plaça Major. Evenings were for watching live jazz and charming meals at independent restaurants serving fresh, locally sourced dishes.
Discovering Joan March Gardens – they were filled with twisted old olive trees, neatly trimmed yews, and fragrant lavender bushes, all surrounding the striking Desbrull Tower – a medieval Gothic landmark dating back to the 13th century!
9. Es Trenc
This unspoilt beauty spot — often called Mallorca’s answer to the Caribbean — won me over! I have to be honest, it was very busy with tourists (especially at weekends), but the vibe still felt more natural here thanks to its protected setting, limited development, and just one (newly opened) resort. I really liked how it focused on preserving its pristine dunes, clean, long beach and clear, turquoise waters.
Stretching for about 3.7 miles along the southern coast between Campos and Colònia de Sant Jordi, it formed part of the Es Trenc–Salobrar de Campos Natural Area, which was home to salt flats, sand dunes, and wetlands.
I drove 45 minutes from Palma, parked near Colònia de Sant Jordi, and stayed at the stylish 4-star Iberostar Selection Es Trenc. When I wasn’t swimming or relaxing, I explored the unspoilt dunes and wetlands, spotted beautiful flamingos and ospreys, admired the pink-tinted salt flats, and discovered that parts of it were clothing-optional — although thankfully mostly in the quieter stretches away from the main crowds!
My favourite highlights…
Scoffing juicy Kalamata olives and slices of nutty pa moreno (traditional Mallorcan brown bread) while gazing out over the dazzling Es Trenc salt flats at the super-cute Flor de Sal café — and I couldn’t resist picking up a pouch of their famous mineral-rich salt to take home!
10. Fornalutx
Secluded Fornalutx — often called one of the prettiest villages in Spain — completely charmed me! Nestled high in the Tramuntana Mountains, this inland village had thankfully escaped mass tourism thanks to its small size, remote location, having no beach or direct coastal views, and its commitment to preserving its traditional stone architecture. I was won over by its understated elegance and peaceful, nostalgic beauty.
I personally thought it was a picture of rustic perfection — saffron-hued cottages with terracotta roofs, cobbled lanes lined with flowers, and terraced orange groves covering the surrounding hillsides.
I drove just 10 minutes from Sóller deeper into the mountains and stayed for a short but memorable escape. My three days here were spent hiking picturesque mountain trails, taking leisurely espresso breaks in Plaça d’Espanya, enjoying gazpacho and tumbet in the restaurants, and admiring the medieval town hall.
Staying at the charming boutique Fornalutx Petit Hotel – I loved its restored convent setting with golden local limestone stone walls, northern pine shutters, and hand-painted tiles, and the mountain-framed pool surrounded by Sóller lemon-scented gardens in its romantic, traffic-free village!
11. Banyalbufar
I found Banyalbufar offered a very different kind of Majorcan escape – it was an under-the-radar gem which had remained blissfully untouched by mass tourism, and I loved its serene, slow-paced charm — it felt like stepping into a gentler world!
Tucked on Mallorca’s western coast in the towering Tramuntana Mountains, it enchanted me with honey-stone houses clinging to terraced hillsides, vineyards cascading toward the glittering Mediterranean, and the scent of wild herbs.
I drove 45 minutes from Palma along a peaceful clifftop road lined with vineyards and stayed for a long weekend at the romantic, boutique-style Son Bunyola Resort and Villas. My days were filled with exploring terraced vineyards, hiking fragrant mountain trails, watching beautiful sunsets, dining on paella and Pa amb oli (Majorcan bread) at cosy family-run taverns, and discovering the old watchtower and the ancient Font de la Vila water system.
There wasn’t a sandy beach here, but I made a five minute drive to nearby Cala Banyalbufar — a hidden pebble cove which was great for both swimming and snorkelling in shimmering turquoise waters.
Visiting the family-run Celler Ca’n Pico, I loved its hilltop setting with sea views and their aromatic dry Malvasia — crisp, floral, and with a bright citrusy kick!
12. Cala Varques
I saw firsthand how Cala Varques — a small, secluded cove — had stayed wonderfully wild thanks to its remote location, only reachable by hike or boat. That inaccessibility kept it amazingly peaceful, and when I finally arrived, I felt completely immersed in nature.
Hidden between Portocolom and Porto Cristo on Mallorca’s eastern coast, it felt very paradise-like — ultra-clear turquoise waters lapping golden sands, framed by dramatic cliffs and hidden sea caves.
I drove from Portocolom to a small parking spot off the MA-4014 road. I have to admit, it wasn’t easy to get to – I hiked 25 minutes through rocky terrain to reach the beach. There were no permanent restaurants, just a few casual vendors, so I was glad I’d brought supplies! I spent my day swimming and snorkelling in the beautiful waters and exploring the wild coastal trails that wrapped around the rugged cliffs.
My favourite highlights…
Enjoying an aromatic saffron-spiced vegetarian paella paired with a chilled glass of crisp Mallorcan Prensal Blanc was absolute bliss!
13. Estellencs
Focused on preserving its old-world charm, Estellencs — a secluded and sleepy mountain village — offered a wonderfully authentic glimpse of Mallorca, far from the well-trodden tourist trail.
Tucked on the island’s western coast within the Tramuntana Mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), I was quietly in awe of its rustic stone houses topped with terracotta tiles, silvery olive groves, sloping vineyards, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
I drove 15 minutes north from Banyalbufar along the dramatic MA-10 coastal road and checked into the charming 4-star Maristel Hotel & Spa. It was a quiet place with not much to do — but that was all part of its charm! I hiked through the wild Tramuntana hills, feasted at family-run eateries (I loved the silky Spaghettini), explored the historic square La Font de L’Abeurada which had interesting Arab roots, and kicked back on Cala Estellencs’ quiet pebble beach which was just a kilometre away.
Enjoying a glass of strong yet fruity Ribas Rosat rosé and a bowl of juicy green olives at the rustic-chic Maristel Bistro & Bar — it was the perfect Mediterranean moment!
14. Cala Tuent
I loved how its raw, untouched beauty had been perfectly preserved by its secluded setting in the Serra de Tramuntana — leaving it admirably undeveloped and wonderfully serene!
Tucked on Mallorca’s northwest coast, it unfolded as a small crescent of both sand and pebbles framed by pine forests and rugged cliffs, with ultra-clear azure waters glinting in the sun. I drove for 55 minutes from Sóller along a winding coastal road with dizzying hairpin bends and dazzling sea views.
I stayed a charming week at the well-presented 4-star Ca n’Aina holiday home, cooling off with swims, hiking mountain trails scented with pine, and dining al-fresco at the romantic Es Vergeret Restaurant — where the golden light and sea views were just as memorable as the food!
My favourite highlights…
Hiking the 13km Sa Costera trail from Mirador de Ses Barques to Cala Tuent which took me five hours, but the steep terrain was worth it for the epic sea views and the bougainvillea-draped ruins of the old Bàlitx d’Avall estate and Sa Costera power station!
15. Ariany
My photo of Ariany views – the landscapes seemed to stretch on for miles!
Tucked away in central Mallorca, Ariany is a quiet, under-the-radar gem that’s kept its rustic charm and slow, soulful pace — and I was smitten from the start.
Set in the island’s centre between Petra and Santa Margalida, I loved the traditional stone-faced buildings with green shutters, the graceful church at its heart, and the surrounding countryside dotted with windmills and farmland.
I drove 50 minutes from Palma through open fields and stayed at the chic 4-star Ynaira Hotel & Spa for a short, restful break. My three days were spent exploring historic windmills, admiring the 18th-century Parish Church of Nuestra Señora d’Atocha, hiking peaceful trails, and soaking up panoramic views from the breathtaking De la Creu Viewpoint across Pla de Mallorca and the idyllic Randa and Bonany mountains — it was the perfect taste of slow village life!
The weekly market in Plaza Mayor overflowed with oranges, tomatoes, woven baskets, and wildflowers, the air scented with sweet lavender and chamomile!
16. Caimari
I was quietly captivated by Caimari! I discovered this traditional village hidden away in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, far from the island’s party resorts in the north, I loved how it preserved its heritage through age-old olive oil production and slow village life.
Its rustic beauty really drew me in — stone houses with terracotta roofs and green shutters, cobbled lanes, and surrounding olive groves and almond trees that scented the air (I visited in spring so I got to see the blossom).
I drove just over 50 minutes from Palma along the MA-13, checked into the boutique Placeta Vella Turismo de Interior, explored old olive mills with tastings, hiked unspoilt trails, and visited the pretty Parish Church of Sant Llorenç. I also cycled the winding Coll de sa Batalla, followed the ancient path to Lluc’s historic chapel, and admired the ancient marjades — the dry-stone terraces keeping the hillsides blooming!
Dining at Michelin-recommended Ca Na Toneta, I loved the warm welcome, rustic-chic decor, and the standout ‘Coca’ flatbread with sea salt, wild rosemary, and fresh tomatoes!
17. Cabrera Island
I found that Cabrera Island, a small uninhabited paradise, remained wonderfully untouched — its national park status and strict conservation had kept it wild, quiet, and full of history. There were no crowds, no residents, just raw, natural beauty!
Lying 6 miles off Mallorca’s southern coast, the 6.2-square-mile island was a haven of turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, Mediterranean greenery, and weathered ruins.
I drove 45 minutes from Palma to Colònia de Sant Jordi based myself for four days at the 4-star Blau Colònia in Colònia de Sant Jordi (the main departure point for boats to Cabrera Island) and visited the island via a 40-minute ferry journey.
I explored the 14th-century fortress, wandered fascinating old military ruins, learned about its Napoleonic past, hiked pretty trails, swam in fish-filled waters, and visited the glowing Blue Cave — to me, it truly felt like a forgotten Mediterranean paradise!
My favourite highlights…
Spotting a pod of playful bottlenose dolphins just off the coastline, I loved hearing their joyful splashes and occasional high-pitch whistle echo across the water!
