Why Majorca is perfect for a short break
Forget that image of package holidays and stag weekends for one second. Mallorca offers style, charm and child-free bliss for those in search of it. We spent 48 hours on the Spanish island to prove that it's not just for sun-seeking Brits looking for a cheap and cheerful getaway.
The biggest of the Balearic Islands might be popular among clubbers (yes, we're referring to Magaluf) and guarantee family fun with kiddie pools galore, but there are a few hidden corners that exude elegance, allure and serenity fit for a quiet-seeking royal (Hollywood actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly honeymooned in Mallorca with Prince Rainier back in 1956!), making it a terrific destination for couples or friends.
With royal fans, a plethora of gorgeous beaches, eclectic cuisine and a few ways to relax, Majorca is the perfect island escape and Illetas is a wonderful location to experience it.
If you're looking for a child-free break, check in to the four-star Barceló Illetas Albatros, set on a pretty cove on the south coast of Majorca.
The adults-only hotel is contemporary with a Mediterranean feel and offers grown-ups a variety of ways to soak up the tranquillity and magnificent views of the bay, as well as be entertained after dark at its trendy dining and drinking spots.
The rooms boast a minimalistic feel, light and airy interiors and mesmerising sea views with balconies to soak up the scenery.
To ensure you're completely relaxed for your days ahead at the hotel, book a massage at the spa (treatments from 35 euros) which is as much about the setting as the treatments. The massage beds overlook an attractive private cove and you won't need 'plinky plonky' massage music to unwind as the sounds of the waves are enough to send you into a deep sleep. Opt for the lavender aromatherapy massage, which leaves you feeling completely lazed and whisks you a world away from home.
Next it's time to test those inviting poolside Balinese beds. Cocktails, sea breeze and sun beds fit for a royal – it's exactly how we imagined Grace Kelly doing Mallorca!
For lunch, head for Lounge Blue and take a pew on the terrace to make the most of the delightful setting overlooking the sea. If you fancy sampling a exciting yet seriously delicious dish, opt for the blue risotto (yes blue!) with shrimps and mango . We're still raving about the heavenly rice dish! To drink, follow the blue theme and order a (very moreish) blue mojito.
An afternoon of indulgence at Barceló Illetas Albatros is easily followed by even more indulgence in the evening as you dine in the hotel's Mediterráneo Buffet Restaurant before lounging in the beautiful Salón Illetas for a nightcap.
With Illetas being ideal for a laidback weekend break, you'll want to check out the local beaches too. The largest, Illetas Beach, is just a 15-minute walk from the hotel and set inside a small bay, surrounded by attractive pine trees. For somewhere that's more of a hidden gem, Cala Comtess, five minutes away, is small and picturesque with turquoise water.
Wherever you're based in Mallorca, a trip to the capital Palma is a must. Marvel at the magnificent Le Seu Cathedral and take a tour inside to discover its compelling stories and works by flamboyant architect Antoni Gaudi. The narrow streets of the Old Town are perfect for mooching around and lazing away the afternoon. And if you're a fan of Spanish fashion, Zara, Sfera, Stradivarius and Massimo Dutti are all in the city centre putting trend-setters in their comfort zone.
When you're shopped out and want to see what the locals are up to, Bar Bosch is one of the oldest cafes in the city and strategically placed for you to sit and watch the world go by.
Fancy another cocktail? Hit Barceló Illetas Albatros' rooftop Urban Sky Terrace for gorgeous sunset views and brilliant DJ sessions. Barman Luis Debellis is a creative genius and will mix up unique and classic concoctions for you, as well as teach you a few things about your favourite spirits. A vodka tonic masterclass (from 225 euros for groups of under five people and 350 euros for groups of five or more) taught us everything there is to know about the vodka distillation process with a few tastings too!
One of the most fantastic things to enjoy at Barceló Illetas Albatros is a morning yoga class, which takes place on a platform overlooking the sea, complete with waves crashing, sun shining and the occasional yacht sailing by. We're not sure if there are added benefits to doing cat stretches and tree poses accompanied by the sea breeze and idyllic views, but it gave us the exact feeling we wanted out of a weekend in Mallorca... utter bliss.
Summer rates at Barceló Illetas Albatros start from 145 euros (£124) per night for a double superior room including breakfast. The hotel has complimentary yoga classes for guests twice weekly throughout the summer.
Get there: Flights with easyJet start from £31.99 per person (one-way, including taxes). easyJet flies to Mallorca from London Gatwick, Southend, Stansted, Luton, Newcastle, Bristol, Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
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