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Explore Balearic Islands
The Balearic island chain is located in the Mediterranean Sea off Spain's Eastern shore and is one of the foremost tourist areas in the country. This group of islands is divided into Gimnesias (Mallorca, Menorca and Cabrera) in the North, and Pitiusas (Ibiza y Formentera) in the South-West. The chief islands are Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza.
These islands have excellent climate (with some 300 days of sun per year), wonderful beaches, a rich cultural offer and the unusual hospitality of their inhabitants. The average temperature varies between 19.5 ºC in spring, 27ºC in summer, 20.5ºC in autumn and 15ºC in winter.
Apart from the beautiful hotels and resorts, there is also a new series of facilities for the enjoyment of the visitor, including marinas, golf courses, agro-tourism establishments, etc. Also, the “Molinos de viento” (windmills) are a very characteristic feature in the landscape of these irrigation lands, especially in Majorca. The calm landscape of the windmills, which are no longer in use, can be seen in the areas of the Pla de Sant Jordi, Campos, Muro and sa Pobla.
After tourism, agriculture and fishing are the chief economic activities; fruit, wine, olive oil, majolica ware, and silver filigree are exported. Both Catalan and Castilian Spanish are spoken.
Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza are connected by plane and ferry. Each airport offers several direct flights between each of the islands and to main Spain and European airports. The most popular method of transport amongst the archipelago's many tourists is car hire.
The largest island, Majorca (Mallorca), is most famous for its beaches and resorts. Its landscape varies from rugged mountains in the north to pine-covered hills and windmill-dotted plains in the south. Only Majorca has a railway line, although the network of buses makes it possible to reach every area of each island on public transport.
Menorca is one of the Balearic islands and a popular detsination for travelers. The island has quite a few historic sights as well. Of particular note are the Paleo-Christian basilicas and monuments from the Talayotic culture. Mao, the capital of the Island, is an important commercial and industrial centre. The old capital, Ciutadella has many monuments dating from the 18th century and is a charming town.
Ibiza is undoubtedly popular within the international club life scene. Every one who loves nightlife clubbing should have been at least once on this magical island. From all over the world, top DJ's are attracted to play records at this party island. Ibiza, with its 84,000 inhabitants, attracts over a million visitors every year.
The smaller, calmer island of Formentera is maybe not as popular with tourists as Mallorca or Ibiza, but the island does have its fair share of idyllic beaches and with their crystal clear waters and fine sands they are great for a relaxing holiday. San Francesc is the capital of Formentera. It is a lively place and is worth a visit especially in the morning when a craft fair is held in the centre.
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