Arguably the most dramatic region of Mallorca, the northwest dazzles with contrasts. Within the 80-kilometre long Serra de Tramuntana mountain range are the prettiest age-old villages of Banyalbufar and Valldemossa; pristine coves like Llucalcari and Port d’es Canonge, and, at the southern end, the delightful resort of Port de Sóller. Pictures, not words, do this part of the island justice.

Port de Sóller

Like the vintage San Francisco-style tram running by the beach, the resort of Port de Sóller retains a joyfully old-school air. Set around a horseshoe-shaped bay and surrounded by the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, the scene is endless days of children playing on the sand, the sound of gently lapping waves, and the pleasant buzz of café and restaurants lining the walkway. Sóller’s port has escaped mass tourism, instead working its own chic character – complete with world-class hotel and spa, the Jumeirah.

Port de Valldemossa

Some seven kilometres from Valldemossa town lies the little harbour of Port de Valldemossa. After a series of hairpin bends, the winding Ma-1131 – giving tantalising glimpses of the sea – leads you to this unspoilt lunch spot with its one simple fish restaurant.

Sa Calobra

Sa Calobra is famous amongst the international cycling community who travel from across the globe to tackle its switchback ascent, but its two beaches are no less breathtaking. The first, set between steep cliffs where the five-kilometre-long canyon Torrent de Pareis opens up to the sea, is reached by walking through rock tunnels from Sa Calobra. The second, lesser-known beach, found in front of the little village, has the advantage of a few cafés and restaurants. Both boast spectacular aquamarine waters.

Port d'es Canonge

There’s a reason you won’t find a crush of bodies on the sands at Port d’es Canonge: six kilometres of the 12-kilometre drive from Esporles comprises one 180-degree bend after another. Once there, the driver is soothed by the sight of an authentic little fishing beach, still very much in working use, and red-hued cliffs tumbling down to the sea.

Llucalcari

Tripping down a shady path to a hidden beach always feels like a mini adventure. The one at the tiny hamlet of Llucalcari is perfect: old stone steps beneath olives and pines ending in a pristine cove with crystal clear, shallow waters. While everyone has heard of neighbouring Deià, three kilometres away, fewer have discovered this charming spot.