Are there any scenic drives I can take from Palma airport to explore the island's landscapes?

Many visitors imagine the journey from Palma airport will be a straightforward dash to their hotel, but detouring along some of the island’s scenic roads reveals a wealth of rewarding landscapes. Rather than sticking to the Ma-19 motorway, consider taking the Ma-13 north through the Serra de Tramuntana. This winding route threads through pine and olive groves, past terraced fields, and offers stunning views of the mountains. Villages like Inca and Selva provide charming stops to sample sobrassada or a café con leche.

If your interests lean toward coastal scenery, driving up to Formentor peninsula or the beaches near Alcudia offers spectacular turquoise waters and hidden coves. The Ma-2210 between Port de Sóller and Fornalutx is celebrated for its hairpin bends and spectacular vistas over the bay. Alternatively, the stretch from Cala Llombards to Es Trenc on the southeast coast features some of the island's most picturesque beaches and tranquil salt flats.

For those who prefer public transport, the TIB bus network connects Palma airport to many towns, including Pollensa and Manacor, providing a scenic, relaxing way to take in the countryside without driving. The historic Soller train is another delightful option to glimpse the Tramuntana's foothills departing from the city just beyond the airport. Whichever way you travel, carving out time to explore the island’s diverse landscapes on arrival enriches the experience beyond the usual route.