Less than two hours by plane from major French cities, Mallorca, the largest island in the Balearic archipelago, offers much more than its image as a tourist destination. By moving away from the hotel complexes, breathtaking landscapes can be discovered, both on land and at sea.
Reserves to Discover
Majorca is home to six protected areas, including the El Toro marine reserve in the southwest, the Sa Dragonera Natural Park, and the Cabrera National Park. Access to the latter is regulated and requires a permit, but it is renowned for its exceptional underwater biodiversity. Here, you can encounter groupers, barracudas, moray eels, and gorgonians, as well as beautiful seagrass meadows of posidonia.
A Troubled Underwater Architecture
The waters of Majorca are dotted with caves, tunnels, arches, and canyons, shaped by time. These majestic underwater landscapes, combined with the clarity of the water and the rays of the sun, create enchanting atmospheres.
Caves to Explore
The island is teeming with underwater caves accessible only by diving. Among them, La Cueva de la Catedral, located near Palma, is a must for experienced divers. For those who prefer to stay on land, the Drach Caves, on the eastern coast, stretch nearly 1,200 meters. Discovered in the late 19th century, they house Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world.
Photo: Panther Media Global / Alamy.
The Wrecks of Palma
Although Majorca is not a dedicated wreck diving destination, enthusiasts can explore four large wrecks near the port of Palma. Located between 20 and 28 meters deep, these intentionally sunk cargo wrecks from over 50 years ago provide a rich habitat for Mediterranean fauna, from scorpionfish to damselfish, nudibranchs, and sometimes barracudas. Visibility can vary at this site.
Accessible to All Levels
Diving in Majorca offers a variety of sites suitable for all skill levels. The calm, shallow waters of the protected coves are ideal for beginners, while experienced divers can enjoy drop-offs, caves, and canyons.
Photo: Dominique Barray
In Particularly Clear Waters
Outside the heavily frequented tourist areas in summer, the waters of Majorca are remarkably clear. Divers can expect visibility of around 30 meters, and the coves with light sandy beaches display postcard-worthy turquoise hues.
An Ideal Snorkeling Destination
Snorkeling in Majorca is an experience not to be missed. The calm, clear waters, rich in small rocky bottoms and seagrass, are teeming with fish from the very first meters. Sheltered coves like Cala Llombards or Cala Pi offer perfect conditions for snorkeling.
Coves for the Sweetness of Life
The coves of Majorca are small inlets with turquoise waters, surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean pine forests. Each cove presents a unique setting, between fine sand and steep rocks. Among the most beautiful are Cala Varques, Cala Mondragó, and Cala Deià. These places are often quieter than the large tourist beaches, ideal for a moment of escape.
Photo: Helmut Corneli / Alamy.
Trying to Spot Dolphins
Common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted off the coast of Majorca, particularly around the Cabrera reserve and Cape Formentor. Although it is rare to see them while diving, they sometimes accompany boats. Dedicated excursions also allow you to go meet them.
An Exceptional Historical Heritage
Majorca has a rich historical heritage, with remarkable sites such as the Palma Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Bellver Castle, unique with its circular plan, and the Roman ruins of Pollentia. The landscapes and villages of the interior, such as Valldemossa and Sóller, add to the charm of the island.
Practical Information
- Time Zone: None
- Currency: Euro
- Water Temperature: 19 °C in May, 26 °C in August, 22 °C in October
- Entry Requirements: Passport or ID card (Spain is a member of the European Union)
- Best Season for Diving: From April to October
- Equipment: A 5 mm wetsuit is sufficient from late spring
- Diving Level: Accessible to all levels depending on the sites
- Health: Universal vaccinations recommended
Photo: Helmut Corneli / Alamy.
Conclusion
Majorca is a top destination for diving and nature enthusiasts, offering a unique combination of underwater landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, this Balearic island will captivate you with its hidden treasures and relaxing atmosphere.
This article, originally written by Isabelle Croizeau for our print edition, has been adapted for the web.