
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
1. Catedral de Santa Maria de Palma
A stunning Gothic cathedral with intricate architecture and a rich history, offering a unique spiritual experience.
- Giant Bell: Home to the largest bell in Spain, 'Es Rumbo,' weighing approximately 12 tons.
- Royal Mausoleum: Final resting place of King Jaume III and his family.
- Gothic Artworks: Features numerous works by Gothic artists, including the famous 'Pieta' sculpture by Guillem Siena.
2. Bellver Castle
An iconic 14th-century Gothic castle built on a hill with panoramic views of Palma and the bay.
- Round Design: One of the few circular castles in Europe, featuring a unique circular courtyard.
- Royal Residence: Used as a royal residence during the medieval period and later transformed into a military prison.
- Herbal Garden: Home to an extensive herbal garden showcasing various medicinal plants.
3. Capilla del Ojo
A unique chapel with a small window offering a breathtaking view of the sea.
- Sea View Chapel: One of the few chapels in the world with a direct ocean view.
- Romantic Love Story: Legend says it was built by a man for his beloved who died at sea.
- Architectural Masterpiece: Features an innovative design with a pointed arch and a barrel vault.
4. Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
A museum showcasing contemporary artworks by Spanish and international artists.
- Contemporary Collection: Houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artwork.
- Rotating Exhibitions: Regularly hosts temporary exhibitions featuring diverse artists and themes.
- Spectacular Views: Offers stunning views of the sea and the historic city walls.
5. Cova des Coloms
An ancient underground cave system featuring prehistoric cave paintings.
- Prehistoric Art: Features some of the best-preserved Palaeolithic cave art in Mallorca.
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours explaining the history and significance of the cave paintings.
- Underground Exploration: Offers a unique opportunity to explore an underground cave system.
6. Jardà Botà nic de la Universitat de les Illes Balears
A botanical garden showcasing the native plants and fauna of the Balearic Islands.
- Endemic Species: Showcases numerous endemic plant species found only in the Balearic Islands.
- Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts for threatened species and promotes sustainable practices.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about the importance of biodiversity and conservation.
7. Es Trenc Beach
A pristine white-sand beach with clear turquoise waters, surrounded by dunes and pine forests.
- Clear Waters: Known for its crystal-clear shallow waters perfect for swimming.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by natural landscapes, providing a peaceful and idyllic setting.
- Nudist Area: Has a designated nudist area for those who prefer to sunbathe without clothing.
8. Sa Riera des Capdepera
A secluded beach with turquoise waters and picturesque cliffs.
- Secluded Beauty: Located in a more remote area, providing a peaceful and undisturbed setting.
- Picturesque Cliffs: Features stunning rock formations and picturesque cliff views.
- Snorkeling Opportunities: Offers excellent snorkeling opportunities due to its clear waters and rich marine life.
9. Son Marroig Botanical Garden
A botanical garden featuring a vast collection of exotic plants from around the world.
- Exotic Plant Collection: Features an extensive collection of tropical and subtropical plants.
- Historic House: Includes a historic house showcasing its original architecture and decoration.
- Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Palma and the Tramuntana Mountains.
10. Sa Dragonera Nature Reserve
A nature reserve featuring unique rock formations, diverse wildlife, and stunning views.
- Rock Formations: Features impressive volcanic rock formations and caves.
- Marine Life: Supports a rich marine ecosystem, including various bird species and dolphins.
- Hiking Trails: Provides hiking trails that offer stunning panoramic views of the island.
11. EcoMuseu de S'Hort del Rei
An eco-museum showcasing traditional agricultural practices and local flora and fauna.
- Traditional Farming: Demonstrates traditional farming techniques used in Mallorca.
- Local Biodiversity: Highlights the importance of preserving local flora and fauna.
- Educational Activities: Offers educational activities for children and adults.
12. Es Refugi de la Porrassa
A cave system that served as a refuge during the Spanish Civil War.
- Historical Significance: Served as a refuge for Mallorcan farmers and peasants during the war.
- Cave Exploration: Offers a unique opportunity to explore the cave system.
- Geological Interest: Showcases various geological formations and fossils found within the caves.
13. Cova del Grau de Granada
An underground cave system featuring prehistoric art and stalactites.
- Prehistoric Art: Features numerous prehistoric paintings and engravings.
- Stalactite Formations: Showcases impressive stalactite formations within the cave.
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours explaining the history and significance of the cave.
14. Es Caragol d'es Coloms
A unique sculpture of a giant snail located in the heart of Palma.
- Giant Snail Sculpture: One of the largest snail sculptures in the world, standing over 20 meters tall.
- Art Installation: Created as an art installation by the renowned artist Jaume Plensa.
- Landmark and Meeting Point: Has become a popular landmark and meeting point for locals and tourists alike.
15. Cala Torta
A secluded cove with turquoise waters, picturesque cliffs, and a small pebble beach.
- Seclusion: Located in a more remote area, providing a peaceful and undisturbed setting.
- Clear Waters: Known for its crystal-clear shallow waters perfect for swimming.
- Picturesque Cliffs: Features stunning rock formations and picturesque cliff views.