Property GuidePalma Old Town

Visitors to Palma's old town marvel at the ancient charm of the district. It's a wonderful area where you can casually wander round the old narrow lanes and alleyways, taking in the beautiful Renaissance mansions and courtyards, before stopping at a picturesque square and watch the world go by over a cafe con leche.

As a consequence of the rehabilitation of its Old Town, Mallorca’s capital Palma has become a new cultural destination over the last few years. This Mediterranean city has been subject to multiple architectural influences, favouring a key element common to many European cities: its history, heritage and relaxed atmosphere.

Fantastic local restaurants in Palma Old Town

Palma old town is justifiably famous for its superb restaurants. Whole books have been written about the city's dining scene, and it is a virtually impossible task to select the best. However, Simply Fosh run by the English Michelin star chef Mark Fosh, should be on everyone's list of favourites (971 720 114). Set in an ancient convent in the centre of the old town, you can choose to eat in the cool interior restaurant space or dine al fresco in the delightful courtyard. The Menu del Dia is exceptional value.

Our favourite places to eat in the Old Town are the restaurant C'an Carlos (+34 971 713 869), a small but much-praised stone and wood restaurant serving traditional Mallorcan dishes such as calamari with mushrooms and monkfish. Calle del Aigua 5, 07012 Palma. For modern tapas lovers try Ca'n Joan de S'Aigo on Carrer de Can Sanç (+34 971 710 759) – reportedly Palma's oldest cafe, dating from 1700.

Great golf just a short distance away

One of the great things about owning a holiday property in Palma old town is that you are never far from a golf course. In fact, there are quite a few excellent golf courses just several minutes drive from the old town. Son Vida golf course is regarded as being perhaps the most beautiful on the whole of Majorca (971 791 210 sonvidagolf.com/en). This challenging 18-hole, par 71 golf course is just a few kilometres to the north-west of Palma and offers the most spectacular views over Palma Bay.

7km west along the coast from Palma old town is Bendinat Royal Golf Club (971 405 200). Nestling in a picturesque wooded valley with lovely views over the surrounding countryside and Bay of Palma, the par 70 course offers 18 holes of superb golf as well as a driving range and splendid club house overlooking the golf course. Both golf courses have luxury spa hotels attached - just the ticket after strenuous 18 holes.