Off-Season Mallorca: Son Net’s Guide to Early Spring Adventures
February 5, 2025 by Hidden Doorways
As winter fades, Mallorca awakens in soft hues of pink and white, its rolling hills blanketed in delicate almond blossoms. Before the summer crowds descend, early spring offers a rare glimpse of the island’s quiet beauty—a time for open trails, golden light, and leisurely afternoons in Palma’s historic heart. At Son Net, a storied estate turned intimate retreat, guests can embrace the season’s magic through cycling, hiking, and cultural exploration, all with the Tramuntana Mountains as their backdrop.
Hiking & Cycling Through Blossoming Trails
By late February, Mallorca’s countryside transforms into a dreamscape of flowering almond trees, earning its nickname as the “snow of Mallorca.” Son Net curates guided hikes through the island’s scenic hills, where the scent of fresh blossoms mingles with the crisp Mediterranean air. A three-hour trek reveals quiet valleys, charming stone villages, and panoramic viewpoints perfect for capturing the island in bloom.
For cycling enthusiasts, Son Net’s premium routes offer everything from gentle coffee rides through Esporles to more challenging climbs up Valldemossa’s winding roads. Ride through Calvià’s sun-dappled landscapes, explore Palma’s old town on two wheels, or take on the legendary Banyalbufar and Estellencs challenge—each route unveiling a different side of Mallorca’s natural beauty. Some routes, like Valldemossa and Banyalbufar, require good physical fitness and prior cycling experience.
Palma’s Art & Culture, Without the Crowds
Spring is the ideal time to explore Palma before the summer heat drives visitors to the coast. Wander its cobbled streets, where Gothic spires and Moorish courtyards tell stories of centuries past. Son Net arranges curated art tours led by private consultants, providing access to carefully selected galleries and collections that showcase Mallorca’s vibrant art scene.
Beyond the galleries, guests can step into the heart of Mallorca’s rich history by visiting the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, a stunning fortress that once served as a residence for Moorish and Spanish royalty. Stroll through the labyrinthine streets of the old town, where hidden courtyards and centuries-old stonework tell tales of the island’s past. For a deeper dive into local culture, explore the Museu Fundación Juan March, home to an impressive collection of 20th-century Spanish art. Stop at a traditional café to enjoy an ensaïmada, a flaky, sugar-dusted pastry beloved by locals, or visit a historic market to see fresh Mediterranean produce at its finest.
A must-visit is the Palma Cathedral, its stained glass casting kaleidoscopic reflections across the sandstone walls, followed by a leisurely stop at one of the city’s historic cafés. With mild temperatures and fewer tourists, early spring invites travelers to experience Palma at their own pace—whether browsing local markets, discovering tucked-away boutiques, or savoring traditional Mallorcan cuisine.
Savoring the Flavors of the Island
At Son Net, farm-to-table dining is woven into the fabric of the experience. Guests can enjoy olive oil tastings at an ecological finca, sip local Malvasia wines from the estate’s private vineyard, or partake in a hands-on Mediterranean cooking workshop in Palma, where a local chef guides participants in preparing traditional Mallorcan dishes.
For a truly indulgent experience, a vintage Land Rover excursion winds through ancient olive groves, leading to a secluded tasting of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and regional wines. The setting—beneath towering pines with sweeping views of the countryside—feels like a secret invitation to the island’s most authentic flavors.
A Spring Retreat at Son Net
Nestled in the Tramuntana foothills, Son Net is more than a hotel; it’s a window into Mallorca’s soul. Originally a 17th-century private estate, its ivy-clad façade and tranquil gardens whisper of a bygone era, now elegantly revived with interiors by Spanish designer Lorenzo Castillo. The property’s 31 rooms and suites blend classic architecture with contemporary comfort, including elevated touches like four-poster beds, private terraces, or direct access to semi-private pools.
After a day of exploring, retreat to the newly redesigned spa for a botanical-infused treatment or relax by the pool with a cocktail crafted from garden-fresh ingredients. As the sun sets over the valley, casting long shadows across the vineyard, it’s easy to understand why early spring is Mallorca’s best-kept secret.
For travelers seeking adventure, culture, and serenity wrapped in one, Son Net’s early spring escape is an invitation to experience the island at its most enchanting.
