Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia aren’t the only worthy destinations to consider for your next trip to Spain. Just a short flight off Spain’s eastern coast in the Mediterranean are the country’s Balearic Islands, the largest of which is Mallorca. And the capital, palm-tree-fringed Palma de Mallorca, is a resort city in the truest sense, enjoying a pleasant climate and more than 300 days of sunshine per year.
Beyond its natural geographic draws like beautiful beaches, Palma de Mallorca offers plentiful options to fill the itinerary of any wellness-focused traveler. Between cultural attractions, a culinary scene full of plant-focused eateries and juice bars, and walkable neighborhoods with intriguing landmarks to explore, you won’t have a problem getting to 10,000 steps (if that’s your speed). There’s certainly no shortage of yoga studios or bike paths, either.
But before you jet off to Palma de Mallorca, read on for some specific healthy recommendations to fill your time in this under-the-radar sun-splashed wellness hotspot.
Where to sweat
On the boutique studio front, yogis should check out Zunray Yoga, tucked away on a side street in the city center. It offers a variety of classes in both Spanish and English so you can practice your postura del perro boca abajo or downward facing dog alongside locals, residents, and tourists. Ashtanga enthusiasts may prefer MYSORE Mallorca, and for barre devotees, there’s The Studio Lifestyle.
If you’d rather soak up the sun (with your skin, protected, of course) and get your sweat on outside, head to the waterfront promenade known as Passeig Marítim. The stretch from central Palma to Portixol is a great place to run, Rollerblade, and bike. (With its picture-perfect conditions and interesting mix of terrain, Mallorca ranks among the most popular destinations for cyclists.)
Where to refuel
It doesn’t get better than an energizing yoga session followed by brunch at La Molienda. The super-cute coffee shop focuses on local, seasonal, and organic ingredients. Fan favorites include the avocado toast, vegan banana chocolate chip bread, and yogurt with fresh fruit and granola.
Another grade-A option is Ziva To Go, a stylish wellness-oriented café set in a home-goods store. In this oasis where smoothies, protein balls, and striped pillows are all on offer, you can grab an acai bowl to enjoy on the outdoor terrace and then pick up some chic printed coasters to bring home.
For salads, sandwiches, ginger shots, and fresh-pressed juice, bop over to Simple Smart Food Bar, an aptly named fast-casual joint. Bonus: There are two locations in Palma de Mallorca, so you’re never far from a quick, healthy, grab-and-go bite. But whatever you do, be sure not to miss the OG veggie-forward eatery to open in Mallorca, Restaurante Bon Lloc, which has been serving plant-based grub since 1978. Newcomers and returning patrons flock here to fill up on fresh fare like raw cannelloni.
Finally, Compost still stands out among the health-food gems for its consistently delish vegan plates. Plus, it feels a bit more luxe for special occasions: Patrons can choose to order à la carte or opt in for the tasting menu. The warm environment is icing on the cashew-cream cheesecake.
Where to sleep
Soulful boutique hotel Can Bordoy has a reputation for relaxation. The ground floor houses a serene pool area and a lush garden. The guest rooms also have dreamy features worth noting, like an adjustable mattress and bespoke pillow menu to all but guarantee you get optimum sleep each night. Another reason to feel good about how good you feel staying here? The space has a no-plastic policy and is fueled by renewable energy.
The on-site spa is a Swiss-inspired subterranean sanctuary that resembles a castle-esque dungeon—only super chic. The stone keeps the space cool (in terms of both temperature and aesthetics) and quiet. It’s the perfect space to indulge in some well-earned pampering, like a foot and leg massage to reboot after all your walking.
Where to shop
A study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology touts the mood-boosting benefits of retail therapy, so why not treat yourself to a spree on Passeig del Born? Palma de Mallorca’s main shopping street showcases high-end designers and international retailers alike.
For more local-leaning buys, visit Mimbreria Vidal, a wicker-basket emporium and a destination in its own right. You can watch the master artisans at work while perusing hand-woven planters, beach totes, lampshades, and more. And definitely don’t pass up the chance to find crystals, incense, and organic body products at Temple to complete your wellness-rooted trip to the sunny Spanish city.
Want intel about other under-the-radar healthy travel spots in Europe? Here’s a guide to Munich and how to spend a long weekend in the Azores.
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