Spain and its islands beat off competition from traditionally cheap locations like Turkey, proving to be the best value for a number of classic holiday purchases.
LONDON – Spain has been named as the cheapest holiday destination in Europe in the seventh annual Post Office report on holiday costs. Spain and its islands beat off competition from traditionally cheap locations like Turkey, proving to be the best value for a number of classic holiday purchases, such as a restaurant meal, a bottle of sun cream and a cup of coffee. In fact, worldwide, only Sri Lanka could compete when it came to the affordability of holiday essentials.
With prices so low, Majorca is the perfect holiday destination for those looking for a great value break. And with flights cheaper than those to destinations further afield, now is the ideal time to sample what the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands has to offer.
If you’re staying in Palma, the island’s capital, a trip on the vintage Soller Train is an exciting way to get to the lesser-known parts of Majorca. This railway connects Palma to the picturesque town of Soller, winding through the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and offering numerous photo opportunities along the way. The line commemorated 100 years of service last year, but don’t worry about missing out on the celebrations, as the Soller Tram, which links the town to its beautiful port – Port de Soller – marks its own centenary in October.
Not far from Soller on the west side of the island is the small coastal village of Deia, a long-time favourite with celebrities looking to get away from the hustle and bustle. The village’s low-key seaside charm has made it a hit with a number of A-Listers, who enjoy walking through the nearby orange and olive groves and taking in the views. When you’re not star-spotting, the scenic Deia Cove is the perfect spot to unwind, with steep cliffs sheltering its shingle beach.
The diminutive Banyalbufar is another of the west coast’s offbeat delights. With a population of around 600 people, it’s a far cry from Majorca’s busier tourist resorts. The sleepy town itself is great for those looking for a chance to relax, and the Torre de ses Animes watchtower offers a stunning view of the Balearic Sea.
