Less than a mile from the beach resort that shares its name, the walled town of Alcúdia, nestled in the foothills of the Tramuntana Mountains on the island of Mallorca, offers a very different kind of escape. Traditional Mallorcan dishes are still served in the town’s gastronomic restaurants, and walking around its maze-like streets is like turning the pages of a history book — from its beautifully restored 16th-century casals (mansions) to a 14th-century library, from the medieval walls built to keep out invaders to the Roman city that is still being excavated on the outskirts of the town. Located on a peninsula between two large bays, Alcúdia is surrounded by countryside and coast suited for both hiking and cycling, and the sandy, family-friendly beach of Port d’Alcúdia is less than a 30-minute walk away. If that’s not enough for you, one of Spain’s best golf courses lies just 10 minutes down the road.

If you’re not hiring your own car, it’s best to arrange a transfer or take a taxi for the 40-minute journey from Palma Airport (PMI), as the airport bus service will only take you to the Port d’Alcúdia resort and not the city (though there is a regular local bus that connects the two). Also, hiring a car will give you the freedom to explore the whole island, especially during the off-season, when buses run fewer services. Cycling is a major activity, and rental bikes are easily available in Alcúdia. You can also rely on good local taxi services.

Mallorca gets very busy in high summer (July and August), when temperatures are at their highest; May and June can be preferable for those wanting a less intense experience. Spring, between March and May, is an attractive time to visit, with mild temperatures and few crowds. There are also some excellent local fiestas and ferias during that period, including April’s annual Nautical Fair, where the humble cuttlefish is celebrated in all its gastronomic glory. Autumn enjoys similarly balmy weather and coincides with Alcúdia’s September jazz festival. Winter can be cold and rainy, although at least you’ll get the beaches to yourself. Whatever season you choose, make sure you check out the food and crafts market on Tuesdays and Sundays — it’s a big part of local life.

Roman Theatre

The ruins of the city of Pollentia, on the southern edge of town, trace back to the 2nd century BCE, when invading Romans made this their capital. Decades of excavations have uncovered an entire neighbourhood, including a forum and this eye-popping 2,000-seat theatre.

Playa de Alcúdia

You’d be remiss to come to Mallorca and not make the most of its beaches. This one boasts the longest stretch of golden-white sand on the island. It’s safe, clean, and a perfect place for families, popular for its many watersporting activities. It rarely feels overcrowded, but if you want a little more peace and quiet you can always travel further down the coast to Playa de Muro.

S’Albufera Natural Park

For something further off the beaten track, S’Albufera Natural Park, a few miles south of Alcúdia, is a 4,000-acre wetland site, world famous for its bird-watching. With footpaths, cycle trails, and plenty of hides, it’s a real retreat into nature, surrounded by waders, warblers, wagtails, and some very rare birds of prey.