The Mediterranean’s sun-soaked Balearic islands are famous for their turquoise waters and charming villages, but beyond the tourist hubs lies a quieter, greener side.
Imagine waking up in a traditional finca surrounded by olive and citrus groves, fields full of wildflowers, and the crystalline waters of the Mediterranean coastline beckoning. Visit the Balearics out of high season (Spring or late Autumn are ideal) and discover a different side of Mallorca that embraces slow, sustainable travel.
If you yearn for more meaningful, immersive travel experiences – from hiking ancient stone trails to staying in eco-refuges and supporting the local community through mindful consumption – then consider a green travel stay on this most beautiful of the Spanish Mediterranean islands. Discover a slower, greener way to experience Mallorca – far from the tourist trail and in harmony with nature.
This mini eco-guide to Mallorca will take you through:
- Where to Stay
- What to Do
- Where to Eat
- Where to Explore
- How to Travel Sustainably
Where to Stay
Eco-Refuges & Rural Retreats
If you prefer no-frills accommodation, particularly if you are hiking the GR221 route, why not stay at the mountain refuges along the walking route. These refugi offer rustic stays along the Ruta de Pedra en Sec for hikers seeking low-impact adventure. The refugi can be popular, especially in the Spring or Autumn months when hiking is at its best, so book ahead.
Agriturismos also offer an unusual way to visit the island – with a farm stay focused on sustainable hospitality. Why not stay in a converted olive mill offering farm-to-table dining for example. Look for accommodation certified by EU EcoLabel, Green Key or Biosphere Tourism for verified sustainability.
Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Ecocirer Healthy Stay (Sóller)
Located in the heart of Sóller, family-run Ecocirer is a small-scale beautifully restored early -1900s townhouse, welcoming with a focus on sustainable living.
Finca Hotel Monnaber Nou (Campanet)
Situated near the Tramuntana mountains, this ecological rural hotel operates year-round. Set within a 150-hectare certified organic farm, Monnaber Nou offers panoramic views and a spa, blending sustainability and luxury.
Finca Can Feliu (Porreres)
This sustainable and eco-friendly finca hotel, nestled near the town of Porreres, features 10 rooms in a renovated Mallorcan finca. As the only eco-friendly hotel in Mallorca producing organic wine and olive oil certified by Demeter, guests can enjoy guided tours, wine tastings, and olive oil tastings on-site.
Son Bunyola Hotel & Villas (Northwest Coast)
Owned by Sir Richard Branson, this luxurious retreat is set within a peaceful nature reserve. The estate includes three villas and 27 individually charming rooms and suites. The hotel’s two restaurants offer delicious Mediterranean cuisine using primarily local produce, with plans to launch their own wine by 2026.
Sustainable Adventures & Experiences
Hiking the GR221 – The Dry Stone Route
The GR221, a long-distance ancient trail weaving through the Tramuntana mountains, coastal villages and UNESCO-listed landscapes of the island, is one of the most popular hiking trails on Mallorca. Stay at the refugi along the route, respect nature, and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding in Marine Reserves
The crystal-clear Mallorcan coast is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding adventures. Gently explore coves and coastline, paddle through the posidonia sea grass meadows, vital to marine biodiversity, leaving no pollution behind.
Cycling the Backroads
Extremely popular with cyclists, the island roads offer challenging and exhilarating cycling routes, or join an e-bike tour through vineyards, olive groves and small island hamlets.
Organic Olive & Wine Harvesting
Sign up for seasonal hands-on experiences like grape-picking or olive oil production with small-batch producers. Visit a biodynamic winery to harvest grapes and learn about natural fermentation techniques. There are many small, family-run vineyards on the island, often running tours. Here are a few suggestions, all committed to eco-tourism principles.
Vineyard & Ecological Winery Tours
Vins Nadal
Binissalem, Spain
A family-run winery offering guided tours that include wine tastings paired with Mallorcan tapas.
Can Pizà
Mallorca, Spain
An organic winery focused on sustainability, Can Pizà offers local wine tastings accompanied by a variety of tapas. Their limited production emphasises quality and environmental responsibility.
Es Fangar
Felanitx, Spain
As the largest organically managed finca in the Balearic Islands, Es Fangar produces certified organic and vegan wines. The estate includes a nature reserve and offers guided tours through vineyards, olive groves, and gardens, concluding with a wine tasting experience.
Bodega Can Majoral
Algaida, Spain
This family winery is committed to organic farming, producing wines that respect the terroir and biodiversity of Mallorca. They offer personalised tours and tastings, providing insights into their sustainable practices and wine-making philosophy.
Es Verger
Esporles, Spain
A small, privately owned winery with 7 hectares of vineyards managed organically. Es Verger produces approximately 15,000 bottles per year, including reds, a rosé, and a sweet white wine. Guided tours and tastings can be arranged to experience their award-winning wines.
Farm-to-Table: Savouring the Island
There is a real commitment to farm-to-table dining on the island, with a range of restaurants embracing a slow food and eco-conscious ethos. A few stand-outs include:
Mallorca, Spain
Founded in 2020 by Michelin-trained chef Andy Ciempiel, this establishment highlights fresh, seasonal produce sourced from local Mallorcan farmers, offering an authentic farm-to-table experience.
Terra Restaurant at The St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort
Mallorca, Spain
Embracing a farm-to-table philosophy, Terra offers dishes that celebrate the island’s rich culinary heritage, utilising fresh, local ingredients in a luxurious setting.
La Farm
Mallorca, Spain
La Farm combines culinary excellence with a commitment to local and seasonal diversity, offering a unique dining experience that respects both producers and the environment.
Caimari, Spain
Located in the village of Caimari, Ca Na Toneta is renowned for its dedication to local, organic produce, crafting menus that reflect the seasons and the island’s culinary traditions.
Palma, Spain
Chef Santi Taura’s restaurant focuses on traditional Mallorcan cuisine, sourcing ingredients locally to preserve and celebrate the island’s gastronomic heritage.
Selva, Spain
Set in a renovated farmhouse, Sa Duana offers a menu that showcases the best of Mallorcan dining, featuring dishes prepared with fresh vegetables and the finest local olive oil.
Each of these restaurants provides a unique opportunity to savour Mallorca’s local flavours while supporting sustainable and ethical dining practices.
Where to Explore
Visit the weekly farmers’ markets that showcase artisan products like cheeses, honey and olive oil, almonds or heritage tomatoes. Most towns hold a vibrant market where local artisans and producers share their products. Perfect for putting together a picnic before a mountain or coastal hike!
For something special, why not join a food tour or a cookery workshop with Mallorca Farm Food, Taste of Mallorca, SAtelier Mallorca or La Vida en Verde to delve into the history of the island’s cuisine. Go wild foraging with a local expert, in search of wild herbs, and edible flowers. Take part in a locally-sourced cookery workshop. Go on a farm visit. Led by locals, these out-of-the-ordinary experiences can provide a deeper, more mindful, travel experience.
Explore Off-the-Beaten-Track Locations
Hidden Coves & Quiet Beaches
Discover lesser-known beaches reached by footpaths—head out early to the wilder east coast in search of caletas like Cala Brafi or Cala Pilota avoiding overcrowded tourist spots.
Hilltop Villages & Forgotten Hamlets
Explore untouched villages where life moves at a gentle pace like mountain village Galilea or windmill-filled Montuiri —perfect for cultural immersion.
Wildlife Sanctuaries & Nature Reserves
Go birdwatching or visit the flora trails in protected parks like S’Albufera wetlands reserve.
Eco Tip: Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to reduce tourism pressure.
By choosing to stay in eco-friendly accommodation, taking part in low-impact activities or supporting local artisans, you can enjoy a sustainable stay in Mallorca.
IMPORTANT TO NOTE: Mallorca is perennially popular with tourists – once home to cheap package beach holidays – the island is now rebranding as a destination for slow travel, keen to attract travellers who wish to enjoy a more eco-experience of island life. It is important to understand that the island is currently overwhelmed with tourists in the peak summer months (18.7 million visitors came to the island in 2024 on an island with a population of under 1 million inhabitants), and understandably there is a level of discontent amongst some sections of the local population – 2024 and 2025 saw protests through the high season. So travel out of season. Opt to use public transport. Stay in eco-accommodation. Be a mindful hiker or cyclist, respecting the natural landscape and resources, and invest in the local community.