Travel to Mallorca in Winters: Spain's (not so) hidden Gem
- Parichaya Walia
- Jan 2
- 4 min read
There’s something magical about escaping the cold, gray winters of north and western parts of Europe, and landing on a sunlit Mediterranean island. While Mallorca isn't the best alternative for the winter season, it's still high up on my "Warm places to visit in Winter" List. (Spoiler Alert: my winter winner destination is in Spain, but that's a discussion for a future post). For now, let me take you to Mallorca.
My journey to Mallorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, started with an affordable €150 round-trip flight (thanks EasyJet). It was just a little under three hours of pure excitement, views from my window seat offering a sneak peek to paradise.
Here's how Day 1 unfolded and why Mallorca should be on your travel list.
Affordable Travel Tips for Mallorca
Traveling to Mallorca doesn’t have to cost a fortune. I scored budget-friendly tickets that included luggage—a rare find these days. Upon arrival, I recommend taking the bus from Palma Airport to your destination. It’s not only cost-effective but also convenient, with schedules easily accessible through Google Maps. For the hour-long ride to Santa Ponsa - (the city where my apart-hotel was), I paid a fraction of what a taxi would’ve cost. With its well-connected roads and highways, Mallorca makes getting around easy for budget-conscious travelers.
First Views of Mallorca
The flight into Palma was a treat to the eyes. As we neared the island, our plane flew stunningly close to cliffs on nearby shores—likely from the island of Ibiza. Below, the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters sparkled in the sun, leaving me awe-inspired before I even landed.
Palma Airport to Santa Ponsa: A Simple Transit
I arrived at Palma Airport in the late afternoon, greeted by warm weather and open skies. From there, I hopped on a bus straight to Santa Ponsa, where my hotel awaited. The bus stop was right outside the terminal, saving time and effort. It was a smooth ride, offering a glimpse of Mallorca’s clean highways and scenic landscapes.
Choosing the Perfect Stay: A Sea-View Apartment
Santa Ponsa didn’t just surprise me—it spoiled me. My one-bedroom apartment had everything I could hope for, including a kitchenette and a balcony with a jaw-dropping ocean view. Restaurants, cafes, and shops were steps away, making it a unique blend of comfort and convenience. I couldn’t have asked for a better location, and the sound of waves was the perfect lullaby every night.
Morning in Mallorca: Sun, Sea, and Spice
The first morning in Mallorca was all about soaking up the sun. One of my friends/travel buddy, volunteered to whip up home cooked brunch—an experimental Indian-style pasta with curry spices and veggies. It wasn’t "authentically Spanish," but it was flavourful, satisfying, and a reminder that food can connect you to home, even while traveling.
From the balcony, I could look at the turquoise Mediterranean waters, dotted with boats and water sports enthusiasts. The contrast between the partially cloudy sky here vs the winter gloom back at Amsterdam was evident. Life here felt lighter.
Exploring Santa Ponsa: Smooth Start to the Evening
The afternoon turned into an adventure of its own as I ventured out into Santa Ponsa around 5 p.m. Despite the sun shining brightly, a light jacket came in handy as the sea breeze carried a slight chill. Be sure to carry a light jacket with you- as even if skies show clear forecast, temoeratures might still be under 20 degrees and it can be windy.
Wandering through the town, I stumbled across a hidden staircase that led directly to the water. It was one of those simple moments of discovery that reminded me why travel feels so freeing.
Down at the beach, there was a relaxed vibe. Kids played volleyball, while small groups strolled or just sat and soaked up the atmosphere.
Touching the Mediterranean for the First Time
Standing at the water’s edge, I finally dipped my feet into the Mediterranean for the first time. The water was a bit chilly, but nothing could dampen the feeling of being on a beach in January. Coming from the rainy, dark winters of Amsterdam, this sunny moment felt like my soul’s reset button.
Nearby, groups of locals were gathered for dance-based beach workouts—a fun sight to cap off the day. There’s something uniquely energizing about seeing people use nature as their gym.
Why Mallorca is a Perfect Winter Escape
Mallorca, also referred to as Majorca, is one of Europe’s go-to destinations year-round. But in winter, it transforms into a haven for travelers looking to trade freezing weather for sunlit days. With over 500 kilometers of coastline and more than 200 beaches, there’s no shortage of beauty or activities.
Palma, the island’s capital, boasts a historic old town, world-famous beaches, and a laid-back Mediterranean rhythm. Whether you’re into hiking, watersports like kite surfing, or simply lounging by the sea, Mallorca caters to every kind of traveler. And for someone like me, who loves an unplanned adventure, it was just perfect.
Beware, though: Expect a lot of crowd from Germany and the UK during winter season. Don't be surprised if you hear a lot of chatters in German on the streets ;) If you don't have kids then prefer the time of year which doesn't coincide with European school holidays, as the cities as well as the airport will be extra crowded.
Wrapping Up My Day 1 in Mallorca!
As the first day came to an end, I found myself reflecting on just how much this island had to offer. The breathtaking views, the calming sea, and the vibrant beach vibes were just the start. From here, I planned to dive into road trips, sunset views, and even a daring climb up a historical watchtower.
This was only the beginning of my six-day Mallorca adventure, but it already felt like a much-needed escape. If you’re looking for a mix of relaxation, discovery, and affordable indulgence,
Mallorca deserves a spot on your travel wishlist too!
Watch my Video Episode Series for more details about this Journey!
Comments