An introduction to Spanish Balearic Island Holidays
The four major Balearic Islands of Majorca,
Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera have been popular holiday
destinations on the itineraries of major tour operators
like Thomas Cook for decades. As anyone who has ever visited
the Balearics will know, the attractions of the islands
are not hard to understand. Here is a brief overview of
the three most popular Balearic Islands for tourism, which
are, in no particular order, Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza.
Majorca is geographically the largest of the Balearics,
and was one of the first Spanish territories to undergo
development for tourism in the post war period. The extensive
selection of beaches and long summer season are the natural
assets which made tourism on Majorca
such a natural development. Majorca is thus well geared
up for summer visitors, and is particularly well suited
to family holidays, thanks to the extensive amenities provided
throughout the island. The younger party going crowd will
find that the major resort of Magaluf offers the pick of
the nightlife on Majorca. There are high quality beaches
to be found all around Majorca, with the most busy to be
found on the southern and eastern coat of the island. Those
looking for a bit more peace and quiet can find plenty of
alternatives, especially with access to a rental car.
Menorca
is the second largest of the Balearic Islands, and is commonly
held to be the one of the quieter locations in the archipelago,
after the tiny and largely empty Formentera, and numerous
uninhabited minor islands near the coasts of the big four.
Menorca boasts as many beaches as Mallorca and Ibiza combined,
and those determined to look for some peace and tranquillity
have the chance to find many near deserted beaches on the
island - even in the height of the summer season - if prepared
to venture off the beaten track. Those looking for some
pre-tourist culture to break up the beach time would do
well to visit Menorca, which is home to quite a collection
of megalithic stone monuments. Over 75% of Menorca is protected
by strict environmental regulations, making the island a
great place for nature lovers as well as amateur historians.
Ibiza needs no introduction to several generations of party
people, and is internationally renowned for the club culture
that spawned a whole sub-genre of good time, disco influenced
club music, the Balearic beat. Popular with hippies since
the 60’s, much of Ibiza has a laid back vibe which
appeals to party goers and families alike. Perhaps less
well known to the uninitiated is the fact that, like Menorca,
much of the island is protected by environmental regulations,
meaning that there is plenty of unspoilt natural beauty
to be discovered away from the energetic nightlife on offer
in Ibiza Town and San Antonio.
Formentera is located just four miles south of Ibiza, and
regularly hosts world windsurfing championships. Most visitors
to Formentera visit this small island while based in Ibiza,
although there is now also a boat service that connects
from the Spanish mainland.
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