Hauling crates of water through the underground car park, stacking them in the hire car and carrying them up three flights of stairs – on Mallorca, shopping for drinks can quickly turn into heavy lifting. On top of that, the tap water across much of the island is very hard and often heavily chlorinated, which
For the first time in decades, owners in Mallorca can officially legalise unauthorised buildings on rural land (suelo rústico) – but only until mid-2027. The Balearic “building amnesty” (officially: the extraordinary legalisation procedure under Decreto-ley 3/2024) is the one chance for many finca owners to turn illegal extensions, pools or entire buildings into fully documented,
Few Spanish tax rules have a more famous namesake: the Beckham Law (officially Régimen especial para trabajadores desplazados) got its nickname from David Beckham, who joined Real Madrid in 2003 and was one of the first celebrities to benefit from the then-new regime. The irony: professional footballers have been excluded since 2010 – but for
Building and Renovating in Mallorca – Key Regulations Anyone planning to build or renovate property in Mallorca must comply with strict building regulations. The Balearic Islands have their own rules that differ considerably from those in other countries. Without the correct permits, you risk heavy fines or even demolition orders. Building Permit (Licencia de Obra)
The Spanish Healthcare System for Expats Spain’s healthcare system (Sistema Nacional de Salud) ranks among Europe’s best. As an expat in Mallorca, you can benefit from high-quality medical care – provided you understand the system and know how to access it. Public vs. Private – Which System Suits You? Spain operates both a public and
Mallorca has a rich events calendar year-round – from traditional fiestas to music festivals and sports. Traditional fiestas Sant Sebastià (January): Palma’s patron saint – concerts, correfocs (fire runs), street BBQs Carnival (February): Sa Rua parade in Palma Semana Santa (March/April): Impressive Easter processions Sant Joan (June): Midsummer beach parties and bonfires Fiestas Patronales (Summer):
Mallorca’s weekly markets are an institution. Fresh fruit, vegetables, olives, cheese, textiles and crafts. Market days Day Town Note Monday Calvià, Manacor, Caimari Manacor: largest Monday market Tuesday Artà, Alcúdia, Santa Margalida Artà: very authentic Wednesday Sineu, Andratx, Capdepera Sineu: oldest market (with animal market!) Thursday Inca, Ariany, S’Arenal Inca: huge, also leather goods Friday
Away from tourist traps, Mallorca has fantastic restaurants frequented by locals and residents. Typical Mallorcan Celler restaurants: Traditional eateries in old wine cellars. Large portions, fair prices. Ca’n Torrat: BBQ spots where you grill your own meat. Chiringuitos: Beach restaurants with fresh fish. Menú del Día Best value! 3-course lunch + drink + coffee from
Mallorca is a hiking paradise. The Serra de Tramuntana (UNESCO World Heritage) offers spectacular routes for all levels. Top hikes GR 221 (Dry Stone Route): Famous long-distance trail across the Tramuntana. 8 stages from Port d’Andratx to Pollença. Puig de Massanella (1,365m): Highest accessible peak. Moderate, 5-6 hours. Torrent de Pareis: Spectacular gorge to Sa
Mallorca has over 200 beaches – but the real gems are known only to locals. Here are our hidden beach picks. Northeast Cala Mesquida: Large natural beach with dunes, less crowded Cala Torta: Dirt road access – almost deserted. Crystal clear water. Cala Varques: 20-minute walk from car park. Spectacular with caves. Southeast Caló des
