Panoramic Coastal vistas

Gaze out over the sea from several spectacularly scenic hilltops, where you will tour a 14th-century castle and the former palace of an Austrian archduke.

After departing from the pier, you will soon arrive at Bellver Castle, a spectacular Gothic landmark from the 14th century. Its round design is unusual among Spanish castles, and although seemingly impenetrable, the fortress never served a defensive purpose.

As you ramble about the hilltop castle taking photos, you will appreciate the origin of its name, which means “lovely view” in Catalan. Few panoramas are quite so beautiful.

Continuing on, you will enjoy a picturesque drive inland, passing through Valldemossa, the island’s highest town. Still renowned for Polish composer Fréderic Chopin and French author George Sand spending the winter of 1838-1839 in a monastery here, the town has retained its atmospheric charm.

Nearby, you will find Son Marroig, the former palace of Archduke Luis Salvador of Austria. The estate is handsomely decorated with period furnishings and makes quite the setting for you to enjoy an aperitif under the Carrara marble rotunda that overlooks the sea. The oddly shaped rock formation that you will see jutting into the water is Na Foradada, which means “pierced rock,” a reference to the gaping 60-foot vertical hole in the center of the rock.

The panoramic view from the nearby Mirador de Na Foradada restaurant will be just as magnificent. Lunch will consist of a traditional mixed paella cooked over a wood-fired grill.