Balearics to Barcelona: A Chic Luxury Beach Holiday

The seriously gorgeous beaches and azure waters of the Balearic islands combined with the hip city of Barcelona make for a perfect stylish Spanish getaway. Our Europe Travel Experts have just returned from these sun-kissed shores and have hand-crafted this 10-night luxury escape based on their favourite spots, from luxury hotels to local eateries. We’ll start you off on the elegant island of Mallorca, where you’ll hole up in a chic room carved from a picturesque cliff-side at Cap Rocat. You’ll then fly across the Mediterranean to Ibiza and Formentera, home to some of the best beaches we’ve ever seen. The last stop is Barcelona; an eclectic mix of vibrant colours and cultures that you’ll take in with expert guided tours, helicopters flights and a sailing trip along the coastline. Pick up your passport, it’s time to head to Spain.

Majestic Mallorca

Your first three nights will be spent at the magnificent Hotel Cap Rocat, a former military fortress located in a secluded bay of Palma de Mallorca. Arrive in style with a private transfer in from Palma de Mallorca airport. The next few days are about relaxing, rejuvenating and reviving. Days here will be spent at leisure, admiring the unique architecture, soaking up the Spanish sunshine and swimming in the crystal clear the Mediterranean Sea. After a day of sunbathing or pampering, dine at award-winning restaurant The Sea Club, where you can wind down under the warm Spanish sun and enjoy delicious dishes cooked in a traditional Mallorcan firewood oven and grill.

We’ll arrange for you to take diving trips, visit the quaint street markets of Palma or head into the hills of Tramuntana for a cycling excursion. As the sun goes down you can retire to the former fortress halls at Cap Rocat. These areas have been transformed into pleasant lounges that are perfect for one last aperitif whilst the sun sets.

Balearic bliss in Ibiza

On arrival at Ibiza airport, your driver will whisk you away to the wonderful 7 Pines, your luxurious new home for the next three nights. This glamorous hideaway is the perfect place to enjoy Ibiza’s shoreline and explore the surrounding area.

The next day, we will arrange a private yacht excursion to Formentera. Beautiful white sandy beaches and clear waters will leave you refreshed and sun-kissed before heading for a gourmet lunch reservation at the renowned Juan y Andrea, a smart and fashionable restaurant on the most famous beach of Formentera. Indulge in fresh seafood and other grilled delicacies on the terrace or directly on the sand under the shade of the awnings. The yacht will stop at a number of deserted beaches where you can dive straight into the pristine water to cool off, or simply relax on the deck and take in the perfect views that surround you before heading back to the marina just in time for a glass of champagne under the sunset.

Hip happenings in Barcelona

On leaving Ibiza, we will fly you to Barcelona and the amazing Mandarin Oriental for four nights. Overlooking the prestigious Passeig de Gracia, take in some beautiful sunset views of the Catalan capital from the hotel’s spacious rooftop terrace. The next day, you can stroll the cobbled streets of Barcelona and explore the city’s highlights, including Las Ramblas and La Sagrada Familia with your local guide. Conclude your day at Gaudi’s newly UNESCO-listed La Pedrera and enjoy a glass of champagne whilst learning about the artist himself. Head back to the hotel where you can indulge in exquisite Catalan gastronomy at La Mesa by Angel Leon; an intimate dining experience at the Michelin starred chef’s table.

After a good night’s rest, you’ll explore Barcelona’s emblematic markets such as La Boqueria and Santa Caterina with an expert guide to learn more about Spanish gastronomy. Our highlight of this part of the trip is without a doubt the private helicopter tour where you’ll have the opportunity to view the spectacular sights of Barcelona from the sky.

Before bidding farewell to Spain, we’ve saved just enough time for one last guided tour through Barcelona’s charming old town where you can visit quaint tapas bars and the historic Gòtic and upbeat El Born quarters. End your trip on a high with a romantic twilight stroll along the Barcelona promenade, before flying home the next morning.