Backroads of Mallorca Cycling (accommodation)

Es Passarell, Felanitx

Es Passarell is in the depths of the lovely Mallorcan countryside down an unsurfaced track between the two market towns of Porreres and Felanitx in the south east of the island, just 40km from Palma.

Joy and Spencer Rennie have owned and run Es Passarell for the past three years and make charming hosts. They are a mine of information on the local area and will make appointments for you to do the bodega tours in Porreres and Petra if you would like, as well as advising on local bus times to Palma and walking options. You can even volunteer to take the two Labradors Tess and Penny for a walk if you would like.

It is typical of a Mallorquin farmhouse (or finca), and was constructed in the C19. The main farmhouse has 2 levels, and the walls are very thick to keep the house warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

All the rooms here are very individual and charming in varied ways and no two are alike. All of them apart from the two 4 poster rooms on the second floor, (6 and 9 which are among several available for an upgrade price), have their own terrace, and there are large shady public terraces both to the front and the back of the house which are ideal for breakfast and dinner.

Around the farmhouse are orange groves – fresh oranges are squeezed for breakfast when they are in season, and ranks of carob trees also surround the house.

Hotel Catalonia Majorica, Palma

The 4 star Catalonia Majorica is well situated in Palma Bay with wonderful views over the sea to the famous cathedral. The hotel was fully refurbished in 2000 and combines elegant style with modern features.

All rooms enjoy beautiful views, and most of them have a terrace. They are also fully equipped with heating, air conditioning and a ceiling fan, satellite television, direct dial telephone, mini bar and en-suite bathroom with hairdryer.