There is no shortage of things to do in the Balearic Islands with a rich array of outdoor activities and places to explore, and some of the world’s best nightlife on offer. From its wide selection of beautiful beaches complete with water sports facilities, to stunning volcanic countryside in its interior and along the more remote coastlines, the archipelago is a paradise for outdoor adventure. Another favorite leisure activity is golf, with Mallorca in particular home to 23 courses, several of which are world class.
In addition to their quintessential sporting and historically-based holiday activities, the islands boast a number of unique attractions waiting to be explored by the curious visitor. Menorca’s vast, dramatic stone quarries, known for the sandstone used in most of the island’s ancient buildings, are now used for concerts, and Ibiza’s Phoenician necropolis of burial caverns is carved deep into a hill. For peace, quiet, and a mud bath, the tiny, uninhabited island of Espalmador can be reached on foot during low tide or by boat from the ferry port at Formentera’s La Savina.
Cruise the coastline of Mallorca in a catamaran for an unforgettable overview of its breathtaking shores, stopping for snorkeling, swimming, and lunch breaks along the way. The six-hour trip, offered by Viator, takes in the Bay of Pollensa and Formentor Beach, where a buffet lunch is served, or Es Trenc and Es Cargol beaches, dependent on the departure point. Catamarans leave from Pollensa Port, Colonia Sant Jordi, or Palma.
Adventure sports in the glorious setting of Mallorca give a new twist to climbing, canyoning, rafting, and hiking through programs offered by Escul Aventura. From a safe introduction to climbing through a fun team building raft workshop and sea trials, to adventure hiking trips including abseiling, jumping, and railing, everything on offer is fully supervised and suitable for healthy beginners. Three-day hikes, canyoning trips, and climbs suitable for those with experience are also featured.
Exploring Ibiza on horseback is a magical way to see this beautiful island. Leisurely riding through the countryside, galloping along a deserted beach, or even learning to ride in a safe environment with a qualified instructor and an ultra-friendly horse all provide unbeatable holiday memories. Canmayon Stables offer a choice of 50 horses, with 10 trained especially for their riding school. It is even possible to go on slow-paced donkey treks.
One of the most popular things to do in Ibiza is Diving, with the island’s mostly pristine coastal waters famous for their varied marine life, shipwrecks like Don Pedro, and other great sites and offshore islands. Vellman Diving offers trips, equipment rental, and training for divers of all levels.
A full-day tour of Menorca is the best way to become one with the charming Balearic island. After a visit to the traditional fishing village of Fornells with its tiny harbor and ancient homes, the tour continues past Mont Toro, the highest point on the island. During a stop at Sant Patrici, visitors can see how the village’s famous cheeses are made before continuing to Son Martorellet, home to breeders of the unique pure-bred Menorcan horses. Organized by Isango, the tour runs from pick-up points all over the island.
Ecotourism is strongly supported here, with Green Ibiza Tours a leading provider of activities such as nature tours around unspoiled locations, kayaking, snorkeling, visits to cultural performances, local markets, and traditional music events. It also provides holistic activities, including tai-chi, drumming, meditation, yoga, and massage.
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