Spain's Pearl of the Sea|Mallorca
This winter, Madrid has been really rainy, so I thought about where to escape the rain. Seeing that the weather in Mallorca was nice, I went without hesitation.
In January, the temperature in Mallorca ranges between 10-18°C, which is really comfortable. Although it's the off-season and you can't swim in the sea, and many shops are closed, losing the bustling atmosphere of the peak season, it also brings a unique tranquility. Plus, flights and hotels are cheaper.
In Palma city center, Christmas decorations are still hanging, and the cathedral at sunset is still stunning and great for photos. Under the warm sun, Palma surprisingly gave me the feeling of Shanghai streets.
I visited the three small towns of Sóller, Valldemossa, and Deià, but only went to the first two. The bus can reach them, with frequent departures—one bus per hour, very punctual.
Most shops and bars in the towns are closed, so there’s not much to explore, but here’s the highlight: the scenery from Sóller to Valldemossa is very beautiful. The bus goes up the mountain (remember to sit on the right side). Along the way, I occasionally saw a small white pavilion standing in the distance, which was very pretty. When I checked later, it turned out to be a museum called Son Marroig. I definitely want to visit there next time!
Since I didn’t rent a car, I booked a day tour to a popular beach, Cara de Moro, which definitely lives up to its fame.
My favorite place is still the area around the popular restaurant Restaurante La Gran Tortuga.
It’s a seaside residential area with guesthouses and some small shops, but now they are all closed. This popular restaurant only operates from April to November and is currently under renovation. However, you can still take photos and go down the stairs. Be sure to keep your voice down so as not to disturb the nearby residents. I think the second time I went down to take photos, an elderly lady living next door stopped me.
Other attractions like Cap de Formentor and the caves are a bit far, so I didn’t go.
Overall, Mallorca in the off-season is peaceful and leisurely, especially suitable for staying a few days to enjoy the sea and relax.