Palma Nova

Holidays to Palma Nova take a softly-softly approach with a Blue Flag beach, family-friendly activities and a nightlife that’s fit for the kids. Then again, you’ve got the clubs of Magaluf just next door.

Brit winner

Palma Nova is a real family favourite on Majorca’s south-west coast. It was one of the first purpose-built resorts on the island and it’s earned its stripes with a seafront promenade packed with Brit pubs and bars. The resort has nabbed a great location, too. It’s just 15 kilometres from the capital, Palma, and a 10-minute walk to joined-at-the-hip neighbour, Magaluf.

Blue Flag beach

Palma Nova scores highly on the beach front – it’s got 3 that run the length of its horseshoe-shaped bay. In the middle you’ve got the Blue Flag star, Playa Palma Nova. It’s a 500-metre sweep of fine white sand that gently shelves into the sea, and the water is nice and shallow for kids. Watersports get a good look in here. And the promenade runs all the way to Magaluf.

Family-friendly resort

Palma Nova plays to families. Restaurants will happily serve up kids’ dishes, while the beach has a small play area for little ones. In the resort, you’ve got Golf Fantasia, a trio of mini golf courses set round caves and waterfalls. And just up the road there’s a go-karting track and waterpark.

Close to Palma

Around 30 minutes’ drive and you’re at the island’s capital, Palma. You’ve got a lot to pack in here. There’s the Gothic cathedral for starters, and after that there’s the nearby La Llonja district, with its tapas bars and restaurants. Designer boutiques tick off the shopping. And there’s the swanky marina for yacht-watching over cocktails.