Top 10 European Holiday Destinations for 2013 Contents

Introduction La Gomera & El Hierro, Canary Islands, Spain

Santorini, Mykonos & Sifnos, Cyclades Islands, Greece Corsica, France Murcia, Costa Clida in Spain Crete, Greece Cyprus Istanbul, Turkey Barcelona, Spain Madeira, Portugal Mallorca, Spain

Introduction
My Native Guide - Top 10 European Holiday Destinations for 2013 First Edition Published in 2012 by www.MyNativeGuide.com Copyright 2012 Debbie Jenkins and Marcus Jenkins All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. All images copyright Marcus Jenkins, unless otherwise stated, used with permission. Smashwords Edition This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please tell them to go to Smashwords.com and download their own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of these authors. The Guide Our Top 10 Guides are written and edited by travel writers who have researched the market and spotted trends. These selected destinations might not be on everyone's top list, but they all have something unusual about them that makes you want to visit. We are a mapping company (www.mymappa.com) and use our knowledge of the most frequently downloaded and used maps to help us decide what destinations are currently popular. Each destination includes a list of website links to help you decide where to visit and to get the most from your destination, details about the location, a map link, a link to hotel booking, a photograph and useful contacts. Of course we've included the official tourist information pages, but we've also found quirky local writers, blogs and travel authors. You'll be better informed with our resources section for each destination! We've also included links for hotel searches and maps to save you time.

La Gomera & El Hierro, Canary Islands, Spain

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/katchooo/

Due to their southerly location the Canary Islands are a great place to visit in Summer or for some Winter sun with temperatures rarely dropping below 20C all year round. The islands are a result of massive volcanic activity, with Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain at 3,718metres the third biggest volcano on earth. The most well-known islands are Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and La Palma, but there are two lesser-known islands well worth a visit - El Hierro and La Gomera. The seven Canary Islands are an Atlantic territory of Spain on the west coast of Africa. La Gomera also known as the The Magic Isle is a walkers paradise. It is shaped like an orange that has been cut in half and split into segments. It's an island of wild beaches, volcanic rock formations, colourful houses on steep terraces, misty rainforest trails and deep gorges. It's not where you come for a typical beach holiday and was once a haven for hippies. Hike the mysterious Garajonay National Park or mountainous Cumbre de Chijere. Soak up the sun in Valle Gran Rey or on Puerto de Santiago's black-sanded beach. The port is quiet and sleepy, with few tourist shops, retaining a real old world Spanish charm. Popular with the yachting crowd, you come to La Gomera for the wildlife, not the nightlife. The local people have a unique way of communicating across the deep ravines by using a whistled speech called Silbo Gomero. This whistled language is indigenous to the

island and its existence has been documented since Roman times. La Gomera is reached by air (a small airport exists) or ferry from the other Canary Islands. La Gomera has been unspoilt by tourism due to the relative difficulty in accessing it - though for a 40 minute ferry ride the effort is certainly worth it! El Hierro is the smallest of the Canary Islands and is pretty much ignored by most tourists. The coastline is rugged and rocky, with plenty of coves. Again it's not your typical beach destination, but if you like diving you'll find plenty to see in La Restinga, Frontera and Timijiraque. Many of the trails and tracks that wind their way around the island have been restored and marked. Try the famous quesadillas, a sweet pastry based on cheese or anything using Gofio, a toasted cereal flour mixed with milk, water, soup or wine to make dough, or roasted with fat and almonds. For wildlife and rugged beaches, these two lesser known Canary Islands are a walker's paradise.
Map Location: -17.2360W, 28.1150N

Useful Web Links: Tourist Office Website Canary Islands Offline Map for Android Fun Things to do on the Canary Islands Local Travel Writer Spanish Website - All Things Spain El Hierro La Gomera Hotels on La Gomera Hotels on El Hierro Canary Nightlife

Santorini, Mykonos & Sifnos, Cyclades Islands, Greece

Photo credit: Marcus Jenkins

Whether you want to enjoy a quiet beach holiday, go scuba diving, sailing or windsurfing, get married or party through the night, the Cyclades Islands have something for everyone. The Cyclades are a group of Greek Islands, in the southern part of the Aegean Sea. The archipelago contains around 2,200 islands, islets and rocks but only 33 islands are

inhabited. The Cyclades are best known for the islands of Santorini and Mykonos, but perhaps less well-known is the tiny island of Sifnos, our favourite. Santorini is a spectacular volcanic island, possibly one of the most beautiful and romantic places in the world, with an amazing landscape, unusual beaches and a vibrant night life. Crescent-shaped Santorini (or Thra) is actually a group of islands consisting of Thra, Thirassi, Aspronssi, Palea and Nea Kamni in the southernmost part of the Cyclades. The beaches are incredible with white, red or black sand or volcanic pebbles, spectacular rock formations and impressive lunar landscapes. Clifftop castles, vineyards and goatherds, Santorini maintains it's traditional aspect. Santorini is fast becoming a wedding and honeymoon hotspot. There are plenty of wedding planners who can advise you on a civil, Catholic or Greek orthodox wedding ceremony. Get in touch with your wedding planner well in advance of the date as different legal documents are required depending upon your countries of origin. Already married? Renew your vows under the Caldera setting sun. Mykonos is a popular tourist destination, with excellent beaches and the most vibrant night life. The island is a paradise for water sport enthusiasts attracting surfers and sailors from all over the world. There is a great choice of beaches for windsurfing for example Krfos, Fteli, Meyli mmos and Kalaftis, where surfing lessons are also available. Diving fans can do a little exciting exploration of the underwater magic of Mykonos. September is probably the best month for diving, as the water is warm and visibility is good down at the seabed. Our favourite of the Cyclades islands is Sifnos a picturesque, quiet traditional island, with good beaches and walks. There are 365 churches on this small island, one for every day of the year, hire a moped and go and find them all. Sample some of Sifnos exceptional dishes like chickpea balls, manora (cream cheese), mastlo (lamb cooked in red wine and spices) and honey pie. Discover fancy lounge bars and the hottest nightclubs on the island, and dance the night away! Apollona also boasts elegant hotels and homey guesthouses. Sifnos is less expensive than Santorini or Mykonos. Island hop and get the best of all worlds with high quality nightlife, superb beaches and wonderful watersports.
Map Location: 24.9199E, 39.3503N

Useful Web Links: Tourist Office Website Offline Map for the Cyclades Islands for Android Fun Things To Do in the Greek Islands Greek Travel Website Greek Travel Website Hotels on the Islands Tourist Office Website - Traveling to Greece Tourist Office Website - Cyclades Islands

Corsica, France

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ralfliske/

Corsica is the most mountainous of all the Mediterranean islands, with around fifty of its summits at more than 2,000 metres. It offers an extremely varied coastline with marinas, seaside resorts, beaches of fine sand and wild creeks. The inland is green and lush, with medieval villages, glacier moulded gorges and valleys, chestnut forests and waterfalls.

Along with the golden beaches Corsica is a haven for walkers and hikers, cyclists and horse riders. Corsica has one of the toughest hiking trails in all of Europe, the GR20. In fact, what a great year to visit Corsica, in June 2013, the seaside resort town of PortoVecchio will host the 100th Tour de Frances Grand Start with three stages taking in 500 kilometres of the islands beautiful landscape. Conditions for sailing and windsurfing are ideal, and the diving is reputedly some of the best in Europe. Beside sunbathing and swimming almost every beach offers opportunities to snorkel. Some more popular beaches will rent windsurf boards and kitesurfing boards. Scuba diving is available, particularly at popular beaches near islands and in major towns. Try Algajola a tiny,secluded village on the northern coast of Corsica with a castle, a few restaurants and small fishing port. Or the Scandola Nature Reserve in the west, with dramatic cliffs and rock formations formed by volcanic actiuvity and wind and sea, popular with hikers. In the south Bonifacio, a medieval village built over towering cliffs, with caves and inlets only accessible by boat and the steps of Monte Rastello leading up to a magnificent view of the medietrranean. Finally try the interior, Lac de Nino, at 1743 meters above sea level, a glacial lake reached only by foot where you can see wild horses and other animals. Driving in Corsica isn't for the feint-hearted, the roads are narrow and winding with breath taking views across mountains and out to sea. Visit Corsica any month except August, when the island is packed with French tourists and prices are hiked up, the hotels and villas are full and the roads are crammed. The rest of the year peace and tranquility reins and Corsica once again offers sport, leisure and relaxation. Useful Web Links: Tourist Office Website Offline map of Corsica Corsica Travel Guide Corsica Journeys Hotels in Corsica

Murcia, Costa Clida in Spain

Photo credit: Marcus Jenkins

Spend a few days here in Murcia and you wont regret it; its a great example of Spain and all its character. Pretty much one of the few regions on the south coast that still retains real Spanish charm, whilst it hasn't been untouched by progress, it has mainly been undamaged. Murcia, covering 11,000 square kilometres making up 45 municipalities is home to just over 1 million inhabitants. It has an airport, which although called Murcia airport is actually 50 kilometres (30 miles) from the city in the coastal town of San Javier. Murcia is located on the Mediterranean Sea and forms a small sea of its own, known as the Mar Menor. Some of the beaches of the Mar Menor include: San Javier, Santiago de la Ribera, Los Alczares, and La Manga and are great for families with shallow waters and lifeguard services. If youre looking for more than a swim and prefer hiking aswell, we recommend the Natural Park of Calblanque in Murcia and the beautiful coves and coastal parts that surround this area. For the nature lover, there are a number of activities in the mountains of the Sierra Espua in the north of Murcia including guided walks, mountain biking and picnics. Or head further inland to the Valle del Ricote with the cliffs, rivers and mountains

to explore. With its large tracts of wilderness, mountains, coasts, cliffs and forests, Murcia offers unrivalled opportunities for treks, short half day walks or longer excursions. There is an extensive network of long distance walks throughout Spain, with a number crossing into Murcia. These are called the senderos de Gran Recorrido (GRs). We have the GR7 all the way from Andorra, as well as many shorter footpaths called the senderos de Pequeo Recorrido (PRs). Murcia is a mecca for golf lovers with more than 20 courses waiting for you. Prefer your activities a little wetter? Try scuba diving, water skiing or hire a jetski. Windsurfers will love La Mota beach, a completely natural course for speed, taking advantage of the wind without taking any risks. Throughout the year, early in the morning the Mar Menor is a mirror, where canoeing is a safe sport for any age. Murcia offers a good variety of sailing, with the shallow Mar Menor being great for beginners and the Mediterranean itself for the more experienced sailor. Many people come to Murcia for the relaxing thermal spas and mud baths, try these out for free along the coast or enjoy the luxury of a spa trip. All the spas offer great discounts at their hotels and for treatments if you book in advance. Foodies will be spoilt for choice, the two main cities, Murcia city and Cartagena city, are packed full of excellent restaurants serving well-priced Spanish traditional cuisine, including Murcian Pasteles de Carne (meat pies), paella, michirones (bean and meat stew) and cordiales (sweet pastries with marrow jam). Prices have remained steady over the last few years and bargains can be found here. Look out for accommodation on the golf course complexes, where you can often get a bargain villa rental including pool. If you want a hotel many offer deals for longer stays. Car hire and flights are relatively cheap. For beaches, adventure and of course, golf, Murcia has just what you need.
Map Location: -2.9903W, 38.8043N

Useful Web Links: Spanish Travel Website - Murcia Tourist Office Website Going Native In Murcia book from Amazon Offline Map for the Costa Clida for Android List of Offline Maps for Murcia area Hotels in Murcia region Blog About Murcia Region

Crete, Greece

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gqueen

Crete is a paradise for tourists seeking sunshine, beaches, and culture. There are mountain villages, long sandy beaches, rocky bays, beach-bars & nightlife. There are magnificent mountain ranges, water-sports, tranquil locations and clean seas. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and is in the Mediterranean Sea between the Sea of Crete and the Libyan Sea, south of the Peloponnese. Crete is approximately 260 km long and 60 km wide. The largest city is Heraklion (Iraklion or Candia) with the archaeological highlight Knossos, the famous Minoan Palace. Visit Chania which lies on the northern coast of Crete, an old harbour town with a little mosque that has been converted into an art gallery. Then drive the 30 kilometres up to the White Mountains which is great place for relaxing or walking and is also a good base to explore the regions attractions. Elafonisi has a beach that stretches for miles, with shallow water and white sand. Theres an island that you can safely wade out to. Elafonisi is very popular with the locals and can get busy at weekends, so its best to go during weekdays if possible. Watch out for the herds of goats as you drive up the mountain roads above Maheri whilst looking for the ancient Byzantine church of Agios Nikolaos, which is surrounded by

huge trees and a graveyard with rows of orange trees. Visit Hora Sfakion the tiny capital in the southwest with white houses and the ferry to and from the Samaria Gorge. For the sporty there's the five-hour descent of the Samaria Gorge near Hani, which is claimed to be Europes longest canyon at 16km, which begins in the forest at Xylskala then narrows to about 3 metres wide at the Sideresprtes, with cliff walls soaring upto nearly 300 metres. Crete is a wonderful combination of picturesque villages, stunning scenery and beautiful beaches.
Map Location: 25.1230E, 35.3336N

Useful Web Links: Tourist Office Website Crete Offline Map Explore Crete Crete Travel Site Hotels in Crete

Cyprus

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/madamkaterina

Beautiful beaches, unlimited watersports, all year round scuba diving, boating courses and trips - Cyprus is a waterbaby's dream. Cyprus is an island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey. Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and although the island is geographically in Asia it is politically a European country and is a member of the European Union. Since 1974, the

whole of Kyrenia district, most of Famagusta district, and the northern portion of Nicosia district are occupied by Turkish forces. The Republic of Cyprus administers Famagusta, Larnaca (Larnaka), Limassol, Nicosia and Paphos. Nothing beats Cyprus for a beach holiday, it has an expansive coastline with a wide variety of beaches to choose from, ranging from secluded bays, to lively resorts, sandy beaches and rocky coves. Relaxing in the sun is not the only reason to visit Cyprus. Theres loads of activities you could indulge in with water sports featuring strongly. Try the waterpark for thrills, or bungee jumping, snorkelling or diving in the warm crystal clear seas. Or windsurfing and sailing, coastal cruising and deep-water fishing. Clear seas and warm waters make Cyprus ideal for diving and the underwater coastal reefs teem with a wide variety of colourful fish, sponges, coral, sea anemones, octopus, mussels and the ubiquitous sea urchin providing a spectacular picture. Sea turtles can be spotted regularly, thanks to a turtle conservation project that has increased their numbers around the island considerably. The eastern coast is famous for its fine white sandy beaches and the deep water bays with rocky outcrops are perfect for snorkelling or diving. The long finely packed grey sands of the southern coast are great for winter walks or jogging and enjoy the secluded coves of the western coast when you want to be alone. Four large cities punctuate the island, with Lefkosia (Nicosia), the capital in the centre, and Larnaka (Larnaca), Lemesos (Limassol) and Pafos (Paphos) along the southern coast. They are busy modern commercial and business centres, with old town centres with picturesque historical buildings, where you can wander along narrow streets and browse through interesting markets and shopping centres. Enjoy the spectacular views from cliff top spots where the ancient Mycenaean Greek settlers built temples to their various gods, with pride of place to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Visit the Troodos Mountains, whose highest peak almost reaches 2000 metres and is covered in snow in the winter, where there's great walking and hiking along trails that go through scented forests of pine, past waterfalls and take in magnificent panoramic views across the island. Whether you're looking for a secluded bay to dream away the day or a lively resort to party through the night, Cyprus can indulge you.
Map Location: 33.0406E, 34.6900N

Useful Web Links: Offline Map of Cyprus Tourist Office Website Cyprus Newspaper Hotels in Cyprus

Istanbul, Turkey

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mossaiq/

Istanbul is a city which everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime, if only to enjoy the food. The blend of Eastern and Western culture, provides Istanbul with a unique identity. Its rich past coexists alongside its youthful exuberance. Although no longer the capital of Turkey, Istanbul still remains the country's cultural and business centre. It is set in a stunning location, surrounded by water, the narrow strait of the Bosphorus and the sea of Marmara separating Europe from Asia. As Byzantium, Constantinople and now, Istanbul, it has been the capital of three Empires, each leaving their mark in the form of stunning palaces, castles, mosques, churches and monuments. The Bosphorus divides the city into the European and Asian sides, linked by two magnificient bridges, spanning the continents. Many visitors don't visit the Asian side, except as part of a Bosphorus tour on a boat which zigzags from side to side, however we suggest you take a day at least to enjoy the enjoy Asian part of Istanbul. Most visitors on short city breaks stay in the old town (Sultanahmet and Laleli) as the vast majority of the sites which they will be visiting are in this area. Istanbul's most famous sites - The Blue Mosque, Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia), Topkap Saray (Palace) and the Grand Bazaar (Kapal ar) - are all within a 30 minute walk of each other. It is easy to get around on foot or by making use of the tram, which provides a regular service on the pedestrianised main street. Taxis are plentiful and relatively cheap and there are also dolmush and bus services for those who really want to explore.

There are a number of boutique hotels in the area of Sultanahmet, many of which are restored Ottoman wooden mansions. Those on a budget may want to consider the more modern and competitively priced hotels of the Laleli district. Some of Istanbul's finest, most luxurious hotels are located on the Bosphorus with stunning views over the straits, or in the modern business districts. The heart of modern Istanbul is Taksim Square and the streets around. Some of Istanbul's finest views can be seen from the Bosphorus river. If you have time it is well worth spending at least half a day viewing the sights and savouring the atmosphere. You can take a guided tour on a small boat, or Turkish Maritime Lines (TDI) runs a good value public ferry service which leaves two or three times a day and does the full round trip as far as Anadolu Kava, the nearest village to the Black Sea on the Asian side, and back to Eminn. It is a charming place, known for its fish restaurants, and the walk up to the ruined fortress overlooking the village, is well worth it for the stunning views. As you leave from Eminn you can benefit from some beautiful views back towards the old town with its evocative skyline of turreted roofs and minarets. Also look out for the stunning wooden Ottoman mansions, many of which have been renovated and form some of the city's most desirable residences. Set aside a day to visit the The Princes Islands in the sea of Marmara, just off the coast of Istanbul. The picturesque scenery of wooded hills, charming beaches and authentic Ottoman mansions make for a pleasant contrast to the city itself. Easily reached by ferry or hydrofoil. Byk Ada, or "Big Island" is the most popular with visitors. No cars are allowed but you can take a trip in a horse and carriage to visit the Monastery of St. George. And remember to visit a hamman (traditional Turkish bath) where for about 20 your skin will be scrubbed clean and the flesh prized from your body. You'll feel great afterwards! Istanbul was voted Destination of the Year at the Food and Travel Reader Awards by readers of Food and Travel magazine (www.foodandtravel.com). It really is a destination for foodies.
Map Location: 28.9840E, 41.0169N

Useful Web Links: Tourist Office Website Offline map of Istanbul Tourism Portal Istanbul Food Blog Another Istanbul Food Blog Hotels in Istanbul

Barcelona, Spain

Photo credit: Marcus Jenkins

There are hundreds of reasons to visit Barcelona any time of the year - it's the home of Gaud, it has great architecture and transportation system, the food is excellent, there's a 24 hour party scene, it's on the Mediterranean ocean with wonderful beaches and a spectacular port, there are markets and market squares, shops and galleries, exhibition centres and museums, the list goes on. Barcelona is Spains second city and the capital of Catalonia, with a unique combination of sun, sea and city. The city of Barcelona is made up of 10 districts and nearly 80 neighbourhoods, each with unique characteristics. Of course there are the obvious must see destinations - Parc Gell, Las Ramblas, the Gothic quarter, the Sagrada Familia, The Boquera market, Tibidabo, Camp Nou, Museo Picaso, Palau de la Musica, Casa Batlo and the beautiful beaches within walking distance of the centre. There are also a huge number of surprising things to do. Visit Parc del Laberint in the north of the city. The labyrinth park covers 18 acres and has a series of two-metre-high hedges to create a maze formation. Or learn to cook with Cook & Taste on Carrer Parads, which is in the heart of the historical city. Spend the weekend with the Davinci

Art School in the Gothic Quarter and learn how to paint a self portrait. Join Michelinstarred restaurateur Carles Gaig on his gourmet bus and enjoy the best views of Barcelona with a haute cuisine dinner. Barcelona is the ultimate designer city where the glamorous Passeig de Grcia is home to top-name brands such as Chanel, Valentino and Burberry. For boutiques, vintage stores and antique shops go to Las Ramblas. And it's got to be El Born for trendy designer wear. Remember to get your Barcelona Card and discount passes for public transport before you get started. Whether you're visiting Barcelona for business or pleasure, on a budget or with an unlimited gold card, there's something for you.
Map Location: 2.1753E, 41.3812N

Useful Web Links: Tourist Office Website Offline Map for Barcelona for Android Fun Things To Do In Barcelona Blog about Barcelona All About Spain Hotels in Barcelona A Tourist Guide Barcelona For Idiots Guide Parc de Laberint Cookery Classes Wekend Art Courses Gourmet Bus

Madeira, Portugal

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mal-b/

Are you looking for a few days of relaxation and comfortable living? Then catch a plane to Madeira. Madeira is a refined and sophisticated holiday destination, set in a spectacular landscape with a wonderful climate. The top-quality hotels and excellent service mean that everybody feels comfortable and welcome. Youre sure to be tempted by the massages

and modern therapies on offer. Why not treat yourself to a dip in one of Madeiras spas? Does all that sound a bit boring? Do you fancy a crazy downhill bike ride or canyoning? Rafting, wind surfing or paragliding. Then catch a plane to Madeira! Madeira is a Portuguese tropical island in the Atlantic, west of the Mediterranean. The Laurisilva Forest, in the Madeira Natural Park, is the largest evergreen forest in the world. There are plenty of beaches scattered around its coastline. Among the more notable of these is Calheta which is one of the top resorts in Madeira and great for a variety of water sports such as canoeing and windsurfing. For golf fans Madeira Island has Palheiro Golf Course at Funchal, while the Santo da Serra overlooks the bay of Machico. Owing to their proximity to the sea, most restaurants specialise in fish and shellfish dishes, of which grilled limpets, octopus and shrimp dishes, tuna steaks and black scabbard fish fillets are just a few examples. Another irresistible meal is the beef kebab, on laurel wood skewers, served with fried corn and the typical bolo-do-caco, with garlic butter. Homemade couscous, wheat soup, homemade bread made with sweet potato and meat marinated in garlic and wine are also very popular dishes. Mangoes, bananas, avocados and passion fruit are used in a great variety of puddings, souffls, mousses and ice creams. Madeira Island also boasts a rich confectionery tradition, with special emphasis on the most typical Madeira confection, the traditional Honey Cake, a true Christmas symbol in Madeira. Tartlets made from fresh ricotta are also very famous. Try the famous poncha, made with white rum, bee honey and lemon. Or sample the Madeira Wines, which can be enjoyed served as aperitifs or along with your main course. Catch a plane to Madeira and enjoy luxury, great food and adventure. Madeira really does have it all.
Map Location: -17.0582W, 32.8505N

Useful Web Links: Tourist Office Website Madeira Offline Map Portugal Tourism Site Madeira Tourism Site Madeira Blog Travel Video Blog Hotels in Madeira

Mallorca, Spain

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/machbel/

So why visit Mallorca? Because theres so much on offer in a relatively small place stunning rugged mountains and dramatic sea cliffs, over a hundred beaches and hidden coves, historic valleys with ancient olive terraces, citrus groves and almond orchards, picturesque villages with authentic Spanish life. Mallorca (Majorca) is the largest of the Balearic Islands and includes the Serra de Tramuntana (Soller, Lluc), Palma de Mallorca, Pla de Mallorca, Raiguer, Migjorn and Llevant. Youll find mountains, plains, caves, coves, marinas and the long sandy beaches that first made it famous, all on an island thats less than 100km long. Mallorca's main and largest city is Palma de Mallorca, small enough to walk across in an hour, big enough to support Michelin-starred restaurants, boutiques and art galleries, a thriving musical scene that embraces jazz, folk, rock and classical and festivals to keep you busy all year. Mallorca has wonderful beaches including: Magaluf Beach, in Megaluf city, Es Trenc Beach, Es Carbo Beach, Cala Figuera Beach, Son Serra De Marina Beach, Formentor, Cala Sant Vicenc (Cala San Vincente Beach), Cala Murta Beach, Port De Valldemosa and Port De Soller. Mallorca's hotels range from unique historic buildings that have been converted to provide every modern convenience, to beautifully charming converted farmhouses in the countryside. If renting a villa in Mallorca is more your thing, then you won't be

disappointed, there are literally thousands of villas in Mallorca to choose from. It's true that some of Mallorca's coastline has been taken over by holiday resorts but these do tend to be very self contained and are easily avoided and are particularly well geared up for families. There are vast stretches of beach, particularly in the south, where there has been no development. Sailing is of course a big thing in Mallorca. It hosts many an international regatta each year and there are many top class marinas and yacht charter companies all around the coast. For those less able sailors, there are day or half-day boat trips available at various locations around the island. The stunning scenery thoughout the island is ideal for enjoying outdoor pursuits. You can find protected Natural Parks in all four corners of Mallorca, as well as the rugged and beautiful Tramuntana mountains that run down the west coast. Walking & hiking are popular activities with a wide variety of well maintained paths & clear signage suitable for all abilities. Cycling is massive in Mallorca, it's a well-established destination for the professional road cycling teams during the off season and there are plenty of routes to choose from. The warm & dry climate is perfect for golfers and there are around 20 golf courses throughout the island. Come to Mallorca to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle in luxury all year round.
Map Location: 2.9526E, 39.6306N

Useful Web Links: Tourist Office Website Offline map of Mallorca Blog about Mallorca Guide to Mallorca Books About Mallorca - Anna Nicholas Hotels in Mallorca

And Finally...
We hope you enjoyed your guide and have a wonderful time wherever you go. We'd love to hear from you, so get in touch and let us know how you got on. About The Editors Debbie Jenkins is an entrepreneur, author and publisher and was a life-long city dweller who always longed for a place in the countryside. Her greatest excitement is in owning trees - hundreds of them! She's learning to ride a horse and to show jump, loves doing acrylic paintings and spends most of her time caring for her ever-growing chicken, cat and dog colony! Her co-author and husband, Marcus Jenkins is a consultant software engineer specialising in the map and navigation fields and developing apps for smartphones. He travelled extensively in his youth, giving him a taste for living abroad. He enjoys hacking in metal with his lathe and mill in his spare time, usually with Randy the cat watching. He's learning to play the bass guitar and enjoys driving his boat in the Med. Originally from Birmingham in the UK, they emigrated to Spain in 2005. The authors Cave House is in the mountains near Corvera, 1 km away from a small village called La Murta, with a population (including them) of 101 people. The village is tidy and peaceful

and inhabited by dedicated farmers. They serve on the village fiesta committee most years. They write books, guides and smartphone apps for travellers. More For You! For loads of articles, notifications of new books and photos head on over to www.MyNativeGuide.com and remember to sign up to get notified of new titles as we add them. Follow us on twitter - https://twitter.com/mynativeguide or make friends at facebook www.facebook.com/MyNativeGuide If you want some great offline maps for your Android phone go to www.mymappa.com and dont pay for roaming charges as you travel around the world. If you enjoyed our book please add a book review to amazon.co.uk or amazon.com this would really help us and help other people who are also looking to enjoy the area. Thanks in advance for doing so!