The Balearics is an archipelago off the Mediterranean east coast of Spain. The best-known islands are Majorca (Mallorca), Menorca and Ibiza. Between them they offer beautiful weather and stunning landscapes. With a little exploration visitors will find craggy cliffs, secluded coves, white sands and beautiful olive groves. The Islands share a strong heritage with both Spain and the UK, with Menorca being a UK dependency for most of the 18th Century. Majorca is the most developed of the main islands, and has the city of Palma, with its many high-rise hotels and numerous bars. It is very busy in peak periods. Menorca is quieter and has more discreetly situated resorts outside the main towns. Both islands suffer from a reputation of raucous nightlife behaviour by young visitors but there are some lovely old towns, pretty coves and peaceful places to visit and spend time in.

Ibiza has a well-deserved reputation as a clubbers’ paradise. It is a unique place with much of the nightlife confined to the south of the Island. In contrast the north is quieter and quainter, with many historical places and features to enjoy. Formentera is a much smaller landmass and is quieter than the other islands. The excellent beaches are the main attraction for holidaymakers. The warm turquoise sea, the white sand and the cloudless blue skies make for great family holidays. Formentera does retain a rustic charm, however, it lacks the cultural interests of the other islands.

Visitors have plenty to do, as there are regular ferry trips between the islands. The beautiful cathedral in Palma makes for an interesting cultural trip, and the Castell San Felipe on Menorca, which was an Anglo-Spanish fort and one of the largest in Europe, is certainly worth visiting. Ibiza Town is a UNESCO world heritage city and using it as a base to explore the island on a scooter is a particular highlight. The extraordinary Necropolis del Puig des Molins, which is a well preserved Phonecian burial ground and temple, is another popular tourist sight.

Although the main islands can be busy and are somewhat expensive during July and August, the weather remains excellent from April to September. There is also so much more to this area of the world than just sun, sand and booze. Explore the islands and the stunning beauty you will find will pleasantly surprise you.