The Balearic Islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera are hot property at the moment, and for good reason, being some of the few foreign holiday destinations that UK citizens can still travel to without quarantining.

Getting off the beaten track in Mallorca and Ibiza can be hugely rewarding. Mallorca isn’t all gold-sand beaches and all-inclusive resorts, Ibiza isn’t all super clubs and bars, and Menorca isn’t crowds of tourists and hot weather. There are secluded villages still practicing traditions as old as time, hidden coves hiding secret little beaches, dramatic mountains and rugged sea cliffs.

So to get you inspired for a potential trip to the Balearics, the team at Not In The Guidebooks have pulled together some experiences and activity holidays that get you off the beaten track in Mallorca and off-grid in Ibiza, so that you can experience these beautiful islands like a local.

Activities in Ibiza

Known as party destination number one in Europe, Ibiza is also an island of serious beauty, as well as a rich culture and fascinating history, all just waiting to be discovered if you just stray off the beaten track.

Morning Food Tasting Walk

On this food walk around the lesser-visited spots on Ibiza, you’ll get away from the tourist traps and discover a bit of real, authentic Ibizan culture and cuisine.

Explore the magical, quiet old town neighbourhood of Ibiza, wandering the cobbled alleys and shady stairways to discover the oldest bakery in Ibiza, atmospheric tea shops and bustling, colourful food markets.

As you explore the backstreets of the new town, you’ll get off the beaten track and experience proper local life, visiting the spots the residents go every day. You’ll also taste incredible authentic local food, from cheeses, jamons, pastries, and more, and try Ibizan food as it is supposed to be.

Guided Hiking Experience

Alternatively, you could escape from the town and head out to discover the other, often underappreciated side to Ibiza – its magical natural landscapes.

Exploring trails that only the locals know, you can choose from a number of routes based on your fitness, the distance you want to walk, and what you want to see and do whilst out making the most of the secret caves and beaches, the rugged sea cliffs and rolling hills, natural springs and herbs growing in wild spots.

You’ll discover parts of Ibiza that many tourists simply don’t get to see, thanks to an expert local guide who is passionate about exploring the very best trails on the island and sharing them with you, so that you get to experience Ibiza like a local.

Activity Holidays in Menorca

Menorca is Mallorca’s smaller, calmer brother, boasting gorgeous sleepy towns and harbours, turquoise bays and white-sand beaches, is the preferred destination for visitors who’d rather be reaching for the swimming trunks than the lasers.

Learn Spanish and Cooking in Menorca

Take the opportunity to really immerse yourself in Menorcan culture, on a Spanish and cooking holiday that combines free time to explore with laid back language lessons and cooking sessions with a local professional chef.

Learning the language of a place is a great way to get to know local culture and the local people, and on this holiday you’ll join a small group each morning in a sociable, friendly Spanish class that caters for everyone from beginner, to advanced.

You’ll also get the chance to join a local chef in cooking up some regional specialties, so you can take home a taste of Menorca with you. This is a top activity holiday for solo travellers, as each activity is organised in a group, helping you to socialise and explore the beautiful island with new, like-minded friends.