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More and more people travelling to Majorca, after having soaked up the sun in the beaches of Arenal, are tempted to car hire Palma, and set out for pastures new. After all, the beauty of Majorca lies in more than just the luxury hotels and sunning by the sea- the island is something of a miniature continent that just begs to be explored.

The island of Majorca has been pushed and squeezed, and the crumpling has produced a varied landscape; the towering mountains of the north, the gentle central plains, with the main city of Palma on the west coast, and the soft limestone hills of the south. All of this is opened up to visitor by a dense road network; many lanes lead out from the 6 main roads, to small coves, lost monasteries and wonderful hilltop villages.

From Palma, the visitor is drawn across the central plains of Es Pla. This area is the main agricultural area of Majorca, and is bedecked by apricot orchards, vineyards, almond groves, and many pretty small villages. The whole landscape has it's rustic charm enhanced by hundreds of small windmills dotted around the fields. These serve a very practical need for water – much of this lies underground, and the windmills are needed to bring it to the surface, and irrigate the parched plains.

On the eastern side of the island, near the sweeping bay of Alcudia, is the National Park of Albufera de Mallorca, a wetland landscape of lagoons, sand dunes and pine forests. This is a natural wonder, formed over 100,000 years ago, and is a popular place for bird spotters and nature lovers alike. The nearby beaches themselves are excellent, but somewhat popular and crowded.

Moving inland, and to the north, the town of Pollenca nestles against the northern mountains of the Serra de Tramuntan. This town shows off the typically narrow streets and high fronts of the houses of Majorcan towns, and is home to a church built by the Knight's Templars. This 13^th century church is a must-see; but only after you have climbed all 365 steps to reach it!

Once you have headed into the Serra de Tramuntan proper, you will be gifted with a spectacular landscape of steep limestone mountains, wild pine forests and alpine grasslands- the mountains rise 1400m above sea level, and are often clad in snow from late autumn. Whilst wending through the steep passes here, do look out for the Lluc Monastery, which is over 800 years old. It is still populated by monks, who will provide a warm welcome for travellers who make their way here- you can even stay in a monk’s cell!

As can be seen, a wealth of experiences awaits those who are prepared to travel and explore a little more of this wonderful island- so make a beeline for the car hire Palma, and make your holiday one of unforgettable adventures.