Palma

Discover Soller, a quiet and picturesque town, nestled in the mountains, with a rugged northern coast. Situated in the Valley of the Sierra de Tramuntana, Soller is popular for its scenery and cool mountain air.

Situated on the north-western side of the island is the famous Palma-Soller train, an old fashioned electric train that has preserved its traditional character for the past 80 years. Enjoy a memorable ride along part of the track, chugging through the lovely countryside amidst orange and olive groves, almond and locust-bean trees, pretty villages and pine-covered mountains.

Soller has long been a popular summer retreat for writers and artists who are attracted by the peace, the light, and the way of life of this verdant valley. You will have time at leisure for independent sightseeing.

Sit back and take in the highlights of Palma. Passing along the seafront, you’ll see the magnificent, honey-coloured Cathedral and the Almudaina Palace. Keep your eyes peeled for the Paseo Born, the Teatro Principal and the tree-lined Rambla with its wonderfully-scented flower market. A photo-stop will be made at Bellver Castle.

Leaving the city behind, your coach will wind its way to Valldemossa through landscapes of pine forests, almond and olive groves. Enjoy time at leisure to stroll through one of Mallorca’s most beautiful villages. Take in the magnificent views of the valley and Palma far upon the horizon.

At the Mallorca Cultural Centre of Costa Nord, sit for a while as a film narrated by the actor Michael Douglas is shown, depicting the importance of the island’s history, landscapes and people. Get a feel of the re-creation of the interior of the ‘Nixe’, a sailing boat that once belonged to the Archduke Luis Salvador of Austria, who studied and loved the coastline. The finale of the visit will be a performance of typical folkloric dances. A soft drink, tea or coffee will be served during your visit to Costa Nord.

Your bike and guide will be waiting for you on the quayside and, after a short safety briefing; your bike ride will begin. As you cycle right into the heart of the Majorcan capital, you’ll pedal along Palma’s famous Paseo Maritimo, brimming with luxury yachts. Then it’s through the old city walls to reach the old town of Palma, exploring a maze of narrow, shady alleyways. Along the way, you’ll see the famous La Seu Cathedral, old churches, small monasteries and old aristocrats mansions with cosy patios and enchanting small plazas. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the Monastery of Santa Clara as well as one of the beautiful mansions.

Your scenic drive takes you to Bellver Castle; this unusual, round castle dominates Palma and the harbour and was once an important military stronghold. Your guide will take you through the interior to view the armoury patio, the small archaeological museum and old kitchen quarters. From the ramparts, enjoy fantastic views of the city and the port below - a fantastic opportunity to capture the sight on camera.

Visit the miniature Spanish Village to view reproductions of buildings and monuments from different Spanish regions, surrounded by a medieval wall. Among its many monuments include the Christ of the Lanterns of Cordoba and the Golden Tower of Seville.

Relax at Can Joan de Saigo where you can enjoy a hot chocolate with a typical Majorcan cake or ensaimada at the oldest café, open since 1705.

Spain’s second largest Gothic-style cathedral, La Seu Cathedral is magnificent, with spires dominating the skyline above the seafront and massive buttresses gracing the exterior. Located in the old Portela Quarter of Palma, the Cathedral was built from the 13th century construction lasted over 300 years.

On your return drive, pass by the Almudaina Palace a typical ancient residence of the Moorish kings, the Palace was later the Royal House for the King and Queen of Mallorca.

Sit back and take in the highlights of Palma before arriving at a weekly village market - a popular meeting place for locals and a haven for visitors.

At each of these markets you’ll find stalls brimming with an abundance of goods such as local handicrafts, leather, clothes, regional delicacies, almost anything can be found here. You’ll have approximately 2½ hours of free time to browse the market stalls and seek out that perfect souvenir or gift.

Monday - Montuiri Market Located in the heart of Mallorca, and with approximately 3000 inhabitants, Montuiri is one of the island’s oldest cities.

Tuesday - Alcudia Market Located in north east Mallorca, Alcudia’s market is very popular on the island, due to its festive atmosphere and the huge amount of variety, the market area covers almost the whole old town.

Wednesday - Sineu Market Sineu Market was first established in 1306 by King James the Second. The market can be found at the church square and encompasses the streets around it.

Thursday - Inca Market The Inca Market is the most cosmopolitan market on the island and is the largest in Mallorca.

Friday - Llucmajor Market Located in the south west of the island, this thriving weekly market is held in the town centre.

Sunday - Pollensa Market Every Sunday morning, visitors and locals from all over the island flock to the traditional Pollensa Market.

Your delightful tour crosses the island towards Pollensa passing Inca, the 3rd largest town in Mallorca, famous for its leather industry and weekly markets.

Pollensa, is located in the hills on the north east of Mallorca. It was established a few miles inland to be protected against any sudden pirate attacks. This quiet medieval town with its pretty whitewashed houses, preserves a local atmosphere, and has been unaffected by tourism.

Here, you’ll have approximately 30 minutes of free time to do as you choose. It is the perfect place to have a morning coffee.

Continue your journey towards the Port of Pollensa, the beautiful fishing village from where a motor launch will whisk you away on a scenic ride to the beach of Formentor where you’ll have approximately 1½ hours to relax on one of the most idyllic places on the island. Formentor beach is home to the well known Hotel Formentor, built in 1929, where worldwide famous personalities have stayed over the past decades, including Dalai Lama, Audrey Hepburn and Gary Cooper.

On your return to Palma, you’ll be treated to a brief stop at the Es Colomer Viewpoint, where you can admire the beautiful landscape of the Mediterranean coast.

Get ready for an off road adventure as your convoy travels towards La Reserva, a nature reserve which accommodates brown bears, emus, donkeys, goats, peacocks and a variety of ducks in a landscape of caves and waterfalls.

Enjoy the numerous stops along the way, whilst admiring different aspects of the island and learning about its flora, fauna and wildlife.

All vehicles are equipped with drinks coolers and water will be served along the way so you can keep your cool!

Stop at La Reserva for an inviting barbecue lunch, where you will be able to relax and unwind, with a well deserved Sangria, before your journey back to the ship.

Here’s an exciting opportunity to watch a live Flamenco show in Palma. Expect energy, passion and emotion - these dancers mean business!

Leaving the pier, you’ll travel across the promenade by coach to view the exterior of Palma’s Gothic style Cathedral and its Almudaina Palace.

Your guide will take you on foot into the labyrinth of narrow streets in the beautiful Old Town to admire the Palaces that are nowadays home to Spain’s more affluent families.

Next, you’ll travel to a traditional Spanish restaurant, to savour a typical tapas lunch with wine and Sangria, whilst enjoying a flamboyant Flamenco show of Spanish ballet with hints of modern music including the Spanish guitar and drum box.