TRAVEL SPAIN

The idyllic Balearic Islands are the jewels of the Mediterranean, 120 miles southeast of Barcelona. On Balearic Island holidays, take your pick from picture postcard sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, dramatic landscapes, clubbing in the hotspots of Ibiza and Majorca, historic cultural cities like Palma or shopping heaven in Ibiza Town.

The Balearics have literally hundreds of beaches. In Majorca, take your pick from long sandy beaches in Alcudia or little bays like Cala Mesquida. At Puerto Pollensa the Tramuntana mountains run down to the sea, creating a dramatic effect with exquisite views from the beach. Majorca's west coast is rugged, but there are spots for swimming and snorkelling. For stunning views, head for the mouth of the Torrent de Pareis which shapes Sa Calobra, with rock formations, a small beach and crystal clear waters to enjoy.

Ibiza alone has more than 50 beaches. Platja d'en Bossa, a large idyllic sandy stretch south of Eivissa, with the Aguamar waterpark behind it, is popular with young clubbers and families alike. Other popular hotspots include Cala de Boix, framed by green hills, and boasting a superb view.

Wherever you spend your holiday in the Balearics, you'll be wondering how to fit everything in! If cities are your thing, Palma is crammed with contemporary art galleries, a Gothic cathedral, museums, excellent shopping, and plenty of public art scattered around. There are waterparks located nearby in Magalluf and El Arenal, while the Parc Natural de s'Albufera is perfect for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers.
Ibiza Town's old quarter is a historical gem perched on a rocky promontory, and Dalt Villa, the medieval part, has a Gothic cathedral and sprawling castle. Check out the area's Museu d'Art Contemporani in Dalt Vila, with its selection of avant garde paintings and sculptures. Our Lady of the Snows Cathedral is one of Ibiza's most impressive buildings. The nearby Placa de la Vila is crammed with shops, cafes and restaurants.

Menorcan capital Mahon has an old town, with small squares, cobbled streets and a natural harbour. At the Port of Mahon are the remains of the Castle of Sant Felip, and the La Mola fort. The Museu de Menorca on Placa des Monastir holds a selection of artefacts. The Parc Natural de S'Albufera des Grau is an important wetlands reserve. Just north of Mahon is the Parc Natural de S'Albufera des Grau, an important wetlands reserve area, home to many birds and superb hiking territory.

There is no shortage of things to get up at night on Balearics holidays with everything from the coolest bars and clubs to fine dining, a sundowner on the beach or just a quiet evening on your hotel balcony with a glass of local tipple.

Experience creative dance culture at its hottest on holidays in Ibiza - one of the party capitals of the world! Resorts like San Antonio or Ibiza Town are renowned for their cutting edge dance culture and massive nightclubs. Amnesia in San Rafael is the epicentre of Ibiza's club scene, while Blues in Ibiza Town pulls in a local crowd, especially out of season.

If you fany clubbing in Majorca, head for Magalluf, but don't write off the nightlife in Palma. Expect quieter evenings in Menorca, where tourism is less developed, and focused on a few family-centred resorts.

Gary