| The Balearic Islands sit in the
Mediterranean sea just off the northeast coast of mainland Spain;
floating in between Menorca and Ibiza, Mallorca is the largest. The
capital, Palma de Mallorca, is surrounded by rocky inlets and
harbours on the southern side, while most of the high-rise tourist
resorts line the east coast. Sa Dragonera is the large, uninhabited
island off the island's westernmost point. The northwest is defined
by the dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and Mallorca's
highest peak, Puig Major (1445m/4740ft). The northeast coast is made
up of two sweeping bays: the Badia de Pollen ça and the larger
Badia d'Alcúdia. The fertile plain known as Es Pla makes up a large
part of inland Mallorca.
Mallorca's flora and fauna is rich. Trees such as the Aleppo
pine, the evergreen holm oak and the carob tree are common, while
the dwarf palm mainly grows around Pollença, Alcúdia and Andratx.
Attractive orange and lemon orchards grow around Sóller. The tree
heather and wild flowers (hyacinths, violets, gladioli, etc) are
also stunning. Reptiles (snake and gecko), mountain goats, wild
sheep, rabbits and toads are all residents on the island. Birds of
prey, including ospreys, kestrels and the rare black vulture,
inhabit the mountainous northwest, and migratory birds flock to the
marshes in summer. The Parc Natural de l'Albufera and Cabrera Island
are both protected areas.
The Mediterranean climate of the Balearics keeps Mallorca's
winter comfortably mild (around 15°C/59°F). Summer temperatures of
around 27°C (85°F) are perfect for swimming (the water is also
warm) and other outdoor activities.
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