Even for seasoned travelers, the charms of Spain and its natural beauty come alive by yacht. The Balearic Island archipelago, located in the western Mediterranean Sea off Spain’s eastern coast, is home to three major islands (Majorca, Minorca, and Ibiza) and several small islands such as Cabrera and Formentera. This sunny, seaside locale offers heavenly beaches and coves, varied gastronomic offerings, charming towns, and several archeological and historical sites with a rich cultural heritage that defines the flavor of each island. From the Canary Islands to the Balearics, discover the Top 7 sailing destinations in Spain.
Palma de Mallorca, Majorca
Ibiza, Spain
Puerto Banús, Spain
Cádiz, Spain
Seville, Spain
Motril, Spain
Valencia, Spain
Palma de Mallorca, Majorca
Palma de Majorca enchants visitors with its cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that presides over the destination. Visit the Old Town and admire the Royal Palace of Almudaina, before strolling along the promenade and dining on tapas and imbibing on sangria. Valdemossa, a beautiful mountain village in the Tramuntana Mountain valley outside of Palma, is steeped in old-world charm and a rich blend of olive and almond trees. It includes such notable gems as a thirteenth-century monastery where musician Frederic Chopin drew inspiration.
Ibiza, Spain
Discover the isle of Ibiza, home to quiet villages, secluded beaches, and quiet sandy coves backed by pine-clad hills. Explore the many hiking and cycling trails that show off the spectacular natural features of the island, or visit the local wineries, many of which offer tours and tastings, such as the award-winning Can Rich Winery. Popular open-air market items include produce, handicrafts, and the island’s signature hierbas, a herb liquor produced on the island from its indigenous plants.
Puerto Banús, Spain
Nicknamed “the Monte Carlo of Spain,” Puerto Banus sits pretty on the Spanish Riviera, in a sheltered harbor where super-yachts drop anchor and your SeaDream yacht drops its signature marina platform and water toys. Once an active fishing port, the marina is defined by its beautiful beaches and upscale beach clubs, luxury boutiques, and upmarket bars and restaurants. From Puerto Banus, venture off the beaten track to Ronda, one of Spain’s oldest cities, located high in the Andalusian mountains, for exclusive wine-tasting experiences.
Cádiz, Spain
This old walled city's history and charm have been inextricably linked with its maritime adventures since time immoral. Dramatically situated on a slice of land surrounded on three sides by the sea, Cádiz launched two of Columbus's four voyages to the New World. Reportedly the oldest city in Europe still standing, its many watchtowers stand guard over the Old Town, where stunning beaches and incredible natural parks are just a stroll away. From Cádiz, travel to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art to spy the famed Andalusian horses.
Seville, Spain
Home to some of Spain’s famed traditions like flamenco and bullfighting, this picturesque town is known for its enticing mix of Moorish, Christian, and Jewish architecture and history, as well as some of the most delicious tapas found in southern Spain. This beautiful city boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Seville Cathedral, Alcázar Palace, and the Archivo de Indias.
Motril, Spain
Boasting one of the loveliest yachting marinas, Motril and the Costa Del Sol coastline is known for its calm, azure waters and for being the favored spot for snorkelers and divers on Spain's southern coast. Boasting lovely beaches and a stunning mountain background, Motril offers guests seaside golf, plenty of sunshine, and a rich cultural center.
Valencia, Spain
Founded by the Romans in 130 BC, Valencia is one of Spain's oldest settlements. Known as the City of the Holy Grail and the cradle of paella, the Old Town showcases vestiges of an ancient path: Valencia Cathedral, which sits on a site once occupied by a mosque and a Roman temple, dates from the 13th century. Nearby, the UNESCO-protected Lonja de la Seda, a former silk exchange, is one of the most treasured gothic buildings in Europe. Beyond architecture, Valencia’s rich history can be felt in every detail, from Moorish-influenced recipes like paella and orxata de xufa (a non-alcoholic drink made from tiger nuts) to ancient techniques and folk music.
Are you ready to experience the quaint towns and playful yachting harbors of Spain & the Balearic Islands? SeaDream provides you with an intimate view of these destinations unlike any other boutique travel line. Click here to check availability and reserve your next voyage.