UK and Europe (Coastal) - 30 December 2012

This voyage is a chance to sail among the diverse and fun Balearic Islands. 

Each of the four islands, floating serenely in the glittering Mediterranean, could be said to have a theme. Mallorca is the senior island, combining a little of everything, from spectacular mountain scenery and hiking through to enjoying the seaside. Ibiza is synonymous with clubbing, the island that gave Europe the rave. Menorca is a haven of tranquillity – splendid isolated beaches and coves, and prehistoric monuments standing as taciturn reminders of how small we are in the grand scheme of things. And tiny Formentera, a chill-out island, where some people lose themselves for weeks on end.

Quite which islands you will visit will depend on the weather and wind direction, but wherever you end up, there is intrinsic beauty. Beyond high-rise resort hotels, bars and more popular beaches are Gothic cathedrals, Stone Age ruins, fishing villages, spectacular walks, secluded coves, endless olive and almond groves and citrus orchards. 

Mallorca or Majorca, the oldest of the islands, is the perfect destination for those looking for a little bit of everything. Palma is famous for La Seu, its vast cathedral originally built on a previous mosque. Although construction began in 1229, it did not finish until 1601 and local architect Antoni Gaudí was drafted in during a restoration project in 1901. The Parc de la Mar (Park of the Sea) lies just south overlooked by the great building which sits above it on the city's stone foundations. Between these two are the town walls. Here there is a vast blue and yellow canopy strung over a lower area, shading rows of wooden benches.

For travel, accommodation and other information, please see the following:

The Palma website (http://www.palma.com/) provides useful information about Palma and accommodation options should you require it. It also provides a map and details of visitor attractions.