Photo Essay: Palma de Mallorca

While many consider Spain’s Balearic Islands to be a party destination, our visit to Palma de Mallorca proved that there’s a lot more there than clubs and techno music. In fact, the culture is filled with food, history, art and literature … with amazing beaches peppered in. We visited Palma in the summer of 2010, and have plans for returning for a more extended exploration soon.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, or La Seu, which features work from Barcelona’s beloved Antoni Gaudi, served as the main attraction in our view from the amazing shared terrace at Hostal Apuntadores.

Our postcard view from the terrace at Hostal Apuntadores.

Palma is a beautifully put-together city.

The Cathedral, lit up at night, is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the city.

The Continental Cajuns never miss an opportunity to mug for our own cameras … roundabout mirrors are our favorite!

There are no words to describe the shades of blue and green you’ll see when you visit Ses Illetes.

Ses Illetes wins our vote for best beach ever (at least, so far!).

Ses Illetes offers beautiful Mediterranean access with much less crowding than many other beaches close to Palma. It’s only a few minutes away by bus.

The Cathedral, up close and outside.

The intricacies of these stained glass pieces will blow your mind.

The size and scope of this church definitely reminds you of how small we all are.

Light filters into the cathedral through the many stained glass windows, casting beautiful colors across the vaulted ceilings.

The cathedral, simply put, is awe-inspiring.

Close up of stained glass in La Seu.

Passeig des Born is THE place for cafe life, day and night.

We ate at Pizzeria Giovanini several times and were never disappointed.

Hostal Apuntadores is a great value.

Barry at one of our favorite hangouts along Passeig des Born.

Great Catalan beer.

The city is filled with long, winding side streets, and the occasional steep set of stairs. They’re always worth climbing.

Coffee is never a bad idea when people watching.

The Forn des Teatre is a must if you’re in Palma. Make sure to try their ensaimada, a delicious pastry that’s ubiquitous in the city but best tasted here. Right around the corner, there’s also a gelato shop that’s out of this world.

The city of Palma is absolutely gorgeous, especially in the area near Passeig des Born.

Can’t get this stuff in the states … there’s a version by the same name, but it’s from the Philippines and doesn’t taste nearly as good.

Me being silly in the old-fashioned elevator in Hostal Apuntadores.

Senora Antonia, the lively widow we met at our favorite cafe, was celebrating her 80th birthday with a dozen or so of her closest friends.

Locals celebrating as their soccer (or football!) team won a major game.