You will, of course, forgive me.
I am not venturing to pull off some questionable impression of the Italian officer in Allo Allo, but have, in fact, been moved to discourse on my recent visit to Majorca.
What I have started to do is to split my holidays into several three day superbreaks rather than one long respite – and so, in common with many others at this time of year, I thought that a timely Superbreak might be long overdue. Scanning the net for some of the many short break specialists, I chanced upon just the right one. After finding the perfect site it took only minutes to find the perfect getaway on the pages therein – Majorca.
Majorca is a most wonderful island, because everything you could want is to be found there: whether you like rugged mountain scenery, long golden beaches, pine forests or lively nightlife, this is the place for you.
I had chosen to stay in Palma, the capital, and take in the atmosphere of this richly cultured but vibrant modern city. Setting out from my Superbreak hotel, I headed for, perhaps, the most prominent feature of Palma, the Cathedral.
Palma Cathedral is set high on a hill overlooking the sea, it is a breathtaking Gothic masterpiece, begun in the 11th century and not finished until nearly 400 years later. A tour of the interior will reveal not just the usual splendid chapels and alters, but also the indescribable beauty of the two main stained glass windows. Twice a day, once at sunrise, and once at sunset, the sun pours through these opposing portals and floods the interior with a maelstrom of living colour. Once seen, this sight is NEVER forgotten.
Descending the Cathedral hill, I was instantly in the heart of the ‘old quarter’. This area is a rare treat for visitors; it is laid out in medieval style, with narrow, winding streets littered with restaurants, cafés, taverns and shops. It was in one of these cafés that I decided to stop for a break. The café I had chosen was a real gem. The place was mainly frequented by locals, but I was welcomed warmly and dined on local fare; cuttlefish, potato salad, asparagus and, of course, a beer. Perfect.
Wishing to fall in with local customs and, no doubt, persuaded by the effects of the beer, I repaired to my Superbreak hotel for an afternoon siesta. By the time I awoke, it was eight o’clock – perfect for heading out. Normally, nightlife in Palma only starts at around eleven O’clock, but I had a special place in mind and wanted to get in early.
ABACO, in the old quarter, is a very special place - from the outside all that is visible, is a small sign and a large set of doors. Once through the doors, though, you walk into a huge interior where a mixture of baroque, rococo, and old Spanish décor merges to form a backdrop of decadent fantasy. ABACO is the premier cocktail establishment in Majorca and the drinks are served in large ‘goldfish bowl’ glasses. Be aware though, it is really not possible to get through many of these cocktails and still expect to be able to walk – you have been warned!
With the night over, I once again made the short journey to my hotel. This had been an outstanding first day and I still had two more left. In my mind I was already planning for the next day, but more than that, I was definitely planning to have another Superbreak in Palma.
If my description of Palma has sparked your wonderlust, then check out
a Palma Superbreak and satisfy the craving!
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