10 incredible things to do in the Balearic Islands

Hikers rejoice! There are beautiful walks to enjoy at this UNESCO World Heritage site. The GR-221 (or Stone Wall Way) is the most popular hiking trail in Majorca and takes you through the entire Tramuntana (in about eight days).

Feast your eyes on some truly sensational stalagmites and stalactites at the Coves del Drac (or Cuevas del Drach). These beautiful caves even boast one of the world’s largest underground lakes.

This is one of the island’s most beautiful inland towns, with cobbled narrow lanes, a famous monastery and some lovely cafés and shops to boot.

You might have to share this charming beach with a few other sunbathers if you visit in the summer, but it doesn't matter: Es Trenc is worth it. With 3km of white sand and turquoise waters, this gem can’t be missed. Pack a good picnic, an interesting book, a towel and a snorkel and you’ve got the whole day sorted.

Birdwatchers love this place; you can spot herons, terns, cormorants and ospreys, especially during spring and autumn migratory periods. You don’t have to be a birdspotter to enjoy the great marked walks amongst the wetlands and the dunes.

Menorca’s second city has elegant manorial houses, grand churches, narrow cobbled streets and a friendly, lived-in atmosphere. Its beautiful harbour is hard to beat for a seafood lunch.

A focal point for the whole island, Ibiza Town’s dramatic floodlit bastions and walls are visible for miles around and make for an atmospheric backdrop to numerous events and festivals throughout the year.

One of Ibiza’s most scenic sections of coastline, the path runs past steep cliffs and through terraced fields reclaimed by pine forests. There’s also the chance for a dip in the sea (only for the brave though, it’s a steep walk down).

The finest beach in the Balearics, this sublime slender finger of white sand lapped by shallow translucent waters lies at Formentera’s northernmost tip.

Flat and with a good network of signposted cycle routes, Formentera is great by bike. Bikes are easy to rent and a great way to explore the island’s stunning coastal scenery.