Majorca, Spain

Searching for a slice of paradise? Majorca, the largest and most varied of the Balearic Islands truly has it all. Aside from plentiful secluded coves and abundant golden beaches, the largest island in the Balearics has become well-known for designer shopping and luxury leisure facilities.

From cosmopolitan shopping malls to high-brow fashion boutiques, Majorca has a shopping scene to satisfy the most exquisite tastes of the many millionaires who have set up home on this beautiful island. The capital, Palma, is as well known for its range of designer outlets as its variety of grand hotels. With the lure of all-year sunshine and an eclectic mix of influences, Palma and its surrounding areas take luxury holidays in Spain to a new high.

Prefer to holiday off the beaten track? Palma's gentle neighbour, Valldemossa may have all you need. Bursting with culture, the quaint cobbled streets of Valldemossa have banished cars giving the town a timeless quality. A busy Sunday market offers traditional local fayre and a charming pebble beach provides the perfect backdrop to a relaxing day in the sun. Outstanding views and fine food are complemented by luxury leisure facilities such as the three expansive golf courses found at Son Vida while a range of sumptuous spas and Turkish baths are available for those seeking deeper relaxation.

One of the most bohemian resorts in Majorca is Deia, resting in a verdant valley beneath the Puig del Teix mountain range. This charming coastal village that combines rustic nature with historic culture has become a retreat for many of the rich and famous, drawn to its bustling narrow alleys, wealth of galleries and quaint restaurants. The houses in and around Deia are largely stone built restored farmhouses set amid popular hiking trails. Nearby Cala Deia boasts a relaxing rocky cove with an inviting range of waterfront seafood restaurants while the beach at Llucalcari affords natural mudbaths along with spectacular scenery.

Elsewhere, Port d'Andratx houses some of the best restaurants and bars in Spain and an exclusive yacht club is the jewel in the crown of the Balearic Islands. This cosmopolitan port town hosts an enchanting market along with contemporary art and many of the island's alluring designer shops. Nearby Puerto Portals is also famous for its high-end luxury and glamorous marina where you can enjoy fine dining while watching some of the most exuberant yachts and a glorious sunset. Many of the hotels and houses in both these resorts offer panoramic views of the harbour while luxury villas and penthouses are scattered along the coast.