FROM the beaches of Majorca and Menorca to the party vibes of Ibiza and its pretty sister Formentera, Brits in their millions flock to the Balearics.
But recent in the islands’ hotspots, and the trend for discovering off-the-beaten-track destinations, mean it’s a great time to seek out hidden gems there.
Visit in June and September for cheaper prices, sunshine without the fierce heat and, of course, more room to move.
Lisa Minot discovers the best of the Balearics, beyond the crowds.
IBIZA
THE nature reserve of Els Amunts in the north-west of the island stretches from Sant Antoni de Portmany to Sant Joan de Labritja and takes in wild forests, unspoilt coastlines and quaint villages.
Stroll between pine, juniper, olive and carob trees or wander the quiet coves such as the Cala d’Abubarca bay.
For beaches without the crowds, lay a towel down on the pebble and sandy shore of Cala d’en Serra, overlooked by colourful fishermen’s huts. Or head to Cala Xarraca, a golden beach backed by pine forests and rugged red cliffs.
Head inland to the hamlet of Balafia to discover its tiny group of houses and defence towers dating back to Moorish . Or discover nearby Sant Llorenc and the Can Pere Mosson country park, criss-crossed with walking trails, picnic areas and viewpoints.
The nearby town of is home to the impressive Can Marca caves. Dating back over 100,000 years, in the more recent past they were home to smugglers and pirates.
Don’t miss the impressive light and sound show in the waterfall cave or the views of from openings in the cliff side.
GO: For a true away-from-it-all stay, the Can Marti Finca in Sant Joan de Labritja ticks all the boxes.
Set in a pine valley, it features the island’s first natural swimming pool, in lush gardens. The six rooms are spread across the 400-year-old farmhouse. Stays from £133 per night. See canmarti.com.
MAJORCA
RUSTIC charm meets natural beauty in the municipality of south-west .
The ancient town itself sits in the valleys of the Tramuntana mountain range and is home to a host of art galleries within its quaint, narrow streets.
At the heart of the medieval old town is the fortified church of Santa Maria. The church offered sanctuary to locals when pirates attacked.
Grab oranges, almonds and olives at its Wednesday market or visit the Centro Cultural Andratx, one of Europe’s largest contemporary art centres.
Base yourself in the charming fishing village of Sant Elm for easy access to the hiking routes in the Tramuntana mountains as well as the coastline.
Relax on the sandy beaches of Sa Gran and Sa Petita or the pebbles of Cala es Conills and Cala en Basset.
The village also offers superb views to the little island of Sa Dragonera, named after its quirky shape. The uninhabited Sa Dragonera is a protected nature reserve, home to more than 360 plant species and native animals.
You can discover it with day boat excursions, with stops for swimming plus time to explore the museum or stroll the island itself.
GO: The 4H Universal Hotel Aquamarin has stunning views across the Mediterranean sea to the island of Sa Dragonera and bills itself as one of the first beach club hotels on the island. Double rooms from £199 per night. See universalbeachhotels.com.
MENORCA
THE quieter sister of Majorca has always been a better place to avoid the crowds and embrace nature.
You can do this at . The rich, wetland ecosystem covers more than 5,000 hectares, supporting migratory , rare plants and marine life.
The park’s guest centre offers guided tours to visitors wanting to discover the vast landscape of unspoilt beaches and lagoons perfect for snorkelling and kayaking.
The park is also the gateway to the Cami de Cavalls, a 185km walking path that encircles the island, ideal for hikes in and .
The little village of Es Grau is worth a visit, with white-washed homes tumbling down to the calm waters of the little bay and several lovely cafes and bars on the waterfront.
From here you can also take a boat (11 euros) to the tiny island of Illa d’en Colom.
Totally undeveloped, it has dense, lush vegetation and there are a handful of good beaches to explore, including Arenal d’en Moro and Tamarells Beach.
GO: For a relaxed, tranquil stay for the whole family, Finca Na Bona sits inland near Mahon on a sprawling, ten-acre estate with lush gardens, a private pool and stunning views of the countryside.
The villa sleeps 14 in seven bedrooms and is 4km from Es Grau. Prices from £3,533 for seven nights in June. See airbnb.co.uk.
FORMENTERA
IBIZA’S little sister has always been the go-to for a quieter, more relaxed stay.
Cala en Baster is a rocky cove known for its impressive snorkelling opportunities. Here, caves cut into the limestone cliffs by fishermen for their boats offer welcome shade, while the shallow, crystal clear waters are perfect for spotting marine life.
It remains blissfully uncrowded year-round, making it perfect for early-morning strolls or a sunset retreat.
For a more unique experience, head to Faro de Barbaria, Formentera’s most famous lighthouse.
It is located at Es Cap de Barbaria, the southern-most rocky outcrop of Formentera and the closest geographical point in the Balearics to the coast of Africa.
The lighthouse sits 100 metres atop a vertical cliff, surrounded by dry scrub and grasses that sway in the strong winds. Nearby is Foradada, a barely visible natural cave that is accessible via a tiny tunnel.
The town of Sant Ferran is great if you are looking to escape the crowds, with its pretty church and ancient square.
Once a stop-off for those on the hippy trails in the 1970s, the Fonda Pepe bar and restaurant is still serving up traditional food at great prices.
GO: For a budget stay, the Hostal Bon Sol offers simply furnished rooms with air conditioning in the town of Sant Ferran. Prices from £96 per night. See hotelbonsolformentera.com.
