Last updated on May 11th, 2025
The Balearic Islands are known for their slow-like-honey vibes: dreamy beaches, haute-hippie hangouts, cerulean blue waters, rustic fishing villages and dreamy long-lunching scenes. But the islands also have a wilder side, where everything is open to adventure in every direction.
It’s time to discover rugged interiors, sun-soaked cycling routes, soaring coastal views, subterranean caves and SUP hotspots. Wondering how to enjoy an active holiday in the Balearics? Water babies, nature lovers, thrill seekers and two-wheel enthusiasts will find plenty of ideas to keep the adrenaline pumping all summer long.
Majorca
Tramuntana Mountains
Majorca’s ruggedly outdoorsy Tramuntana Mountains stretch nearly 90 kilometres and are home to a feast of age-old olive groves, bright blue lakes and vertiginous peaks. It’s here you’ll find breathtaking hiking trails on spectacular routes including Alaró, Deià, and Selva. The Tramuntana Mountains also offer up beautiful easy-ride cycling routes and far more challenging unpaved roads. Imagine hairpin turns through Mediterranean pine forests and kilometres of daring descents accompanied by jaw-dropping views of the coast.
Dive into the blue
Majorca is a dream for those that love to swim and snorkel, but what if you fancy trying out something new on the water? This island has you covered with everything from wakeboarding and windsurfing to flyboarding and jet skiing.
Cave boating
If you’re looking for a thrilling subterranean adventure packed with fairytale castles of stalactites and stalagmites, head to Majorca’s famous caves. In Porto Cristo, you can cross the spectacular Drach Caves by boat and soak up an illuminated mini classical concert underground.
Menorca
Albufera Des Grau Nature Park
Despite its quieter reputation, Menorca is bold in its beauty, beaches and outdoor adventure. For nature lovers, this boomerang-shaped island is a dream of dusty tracks, native wildlife, limestone cliffs and azure waters. Take a trip to the north coast for the impossibly pretty wildlands of Albufera Des Grau Nature Park where you can kayak through secret coves, hike drop-dead gorgeous trails, visit sustainable farms and go on naturalistic tours.
Climb the island’s highest peak
There is just one peak on the almost flat island of Menorca, but it is definitely worth the easy climb. At the top of Monte Toro, you’re rewarded with alluring panoramic views across the whole of the island. Sunset here is particularly spectacular. At the summit, you’ll also be able to explore the ruins of the Gothic church and the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Sail away the day
Menorca’s natural bay, calm waters and blowing Tramontana winds give you all the magical ingredients for a smooth day of sailing. Rent your own boat, take lessons with a sailing school or time your holiday to coincide with one of the island’s lauded regattas such as the Copa del Rey’s Vela Clásica Menorca, which is held every August.
Ibiza
The high energy island of Ibiza has it all; seafoam colours, cool hangouts, bohemian vibes, picture-perfect towns and a hotbed of stunning beaches. Outside adventure beckons, with plenty of pursuits under the Mediterranean’s glorious sun.
SUP
Stand up paddleboarding is a great way to experience the offshore adventure of Ibiza. A newbie to the sport? Learn the basics of balance with expert instructors at SUP training schools. Already know the ropes? Then get ready to paddle across the west coast’s stunning coves followed by magical sunset excursions.
Fly high over the water
Prefer to get your thrills and spills without touching the ground? With the help of high-pressure water jets, flyboarding excursions on Ibiza allow you to levitate over the Mediterranean. Or, if you want to enjoy a breathtaking birds-eye view of this paradisiacal island, strap yourself into a harness on a parasailing trip and soar hundreds of metres over the sea.
No matter which way you slice it, the Mediterranean is ripe for action and now is the perfect time to get out there and enjoy a Balearics holiday that sizzles with adrenaline-fuelled adventure.
