Secluded bays, secret beaches, and wildlife trails: enjoy natural beauty in the Balearics
Explore the hidden natural worlds of Ibiza, Formentera, Majorca and Menorca
The Balearic Islands of Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera, have rightly been top holiday destinations for decades. A mixture of stunning whitewashed seaside towns, crystal-clear waters, idyllic sandy beaches, coastal walks, mountain trails and hidden bays has kept the Mediterranean archipelago popular with nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
To help you find your ideal Greek island holiday this summer, travel experts Jet2holidays offer great-value breaks in more than 50 amazing destinations, including 21 in Greece. Hotspots and hidden gems, all boards and budgets, flexible stays and fab flight times – there’s something for everyone. With just a £60pp deposit*, 22kg baggage included and flexible monthly payments** to help spread the cost of your well-deserved holiday, it’s never been easier to get your next Greek getaway booked.
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Here’s our pick of the best the Balearics has to offer, for those wanting to swerve the busy parties and bask in nature instead...
Amazing activities in Majorca
Rugged mountain peaks and lush countryside has made Majorca a paradise for mountain bikers, hikers and horse-riding enthusiasts. The island’s perfect size and good quality roads means you can base yourself almost anywhere – opt for the tranquil, four-star Iberostar Cala Domingos, situated next to a peaceful sandy cove with pedalos in Calas de Mallorca, and smack in the middle of hiking trails all along the east coast of the island. It’s a short drive to the Boquer Valley in the north east where you’ll spot birds including blue rock thrushes, warblers and wrynecks among the olive trees.
Leave your flip-flops behind for the hike from Port de Pollença to the sea at Cala Boquer, the secluded rocky bay, surrounded by limestone cliffs, has crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Sign up for family-friendly, beach life at the VIVA Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa (main image, above) in the quiet northern town of Cala Mesquida, close to the The Tower of Albarca, which is the starting point for one Majorca’s top mountain biking routes.
Secret swims in Menorca
The most northern of the Balearic Islands and also the greenest, Menorca’s unspoilt beaches, craggy clifftops and rare flora and fauna are UNESCO-protected. Hikers can spot Sardinian warblers or Egyptian vultures on the coastline by following parts of the famous 186km-long Cami de Cavalls path encircling the whole island.
Book into the all-inclusive Globales Cala’n Blanes hotel on the west of the island, which has direct access to the beach, or just a 20-minute drive away, head off the beaten track and seek out Cala Mitjana, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches and walk up to the tree-covered cliffs for fantastic views.
For a touch of luxury, check into the Melia Cala Galdana on Menorca’s stunning south coast. Located at the base of the Algendar Gorge means there’s an abundance of high, pine-covered cliffs for coastal walks. The stylish hotel provides incredible views of the sandy cove and has two bars and four restaurants where you can sit and soak it all in.
Wildlife wonders in Ibiza
Peace, tranquillity and wildlife might not be the first thing that jumps to mind when you think of Ibiza, but it’s there! Head to Santa Eulària for bird spotting on the steep walk to the hilltop Puig de Missa church, once there, enjoy panoramic views across the whole island. If you’re after swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing away from the crowds, surround yourself with pretty coves, shimmering turquoise water, rock pools and towering cliffs at the northern beaches of Es Portitxol and Cala d’en Serra and stay for a front-row seat for one of Ibiza’s famous sunsets.
Base yourself at the newly refurbished, adults-only TRS Ibiza Hotel, a short walk from the breathtaking azure waters at Cala Gracio beach. Unwind after early morning hikes next to the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool or get some recovery time at the Zentropia Spa. Choose from five bars and three restaurants as part of the All Inclusive Plus offering. Keen to explore? The hotel is just 1.5km from San Antonio’s famous restaurants, bars and clubs.
Hidden gems in Formentera
Just a 30-minute boat ride from Ibiza Town, the island of Formentera is the perfect day trip or short break to enjoy a more laidback vibe. Avoid the crowds and head to El Tiburon beach on the north of the island for pale blue waters for snorkelling and shelter under the pine trees at the hottest time of the day. Playa Tanga beach is also nearby and offers a long stretch of powdery white sand and has easy access to bars and restaurants. The best way to explore the hidden coves and tiny islets is through hiring a kayak or paddleboard or joining an experience from Es Pujols.
Jet2holidays, the UK’s number one tour operator, offers package holidays you can trust where everything’s included. With you every step of the way, Jet2holidays has an incredible range of great-value, expert-rated getaways for all types of holidaymakers, across more than 50 stunning destinations. From the five-star luxury of Indulgent Escapes by Jet2holidays® to the compelling cities of Jet2CityBreaks, VIBE by Jet2holidays for Insta-worthy stays that suit your style to family-friendly Jet2Villas, the boxes are ticked for every age, budget and interest. What’s more, with holidays secured for just £60pp deposit* and flexible payment options**, plus a host of perks like 22kg baggage and return transfers included††, it’s easy from start to finish. It’s all ABTA and ATOL-protected too, so you can enjoy sunshine with peace of mind. To find out more and book with the best, head here.
*On bookings made ten weeks or more before departure. **Terms and conditions apply. Please visit www.jet2holidays.com/part-payment for details. †Based on 4 people. On all holiday departures until 31 October 2025. T&Cs apply. See http://Jet2holidays.com/promotions#60OFFMYJET2SALE ††Transfers are not included as standard on Jet2CityBreaks. Jet2Villas packages include car hire instead of transfers.