Once popular for ‘sun, sand and sangria’, a different kind of tourism is now taking off in Mallorca with an increase in independent travellers looking to explore the island’s hidden cultural gems – and what better way to find them than armed with the brand new, full-colour Step by Step Mallorca from Insight Guides (pub. 4 January 2012, priced £8.99,www.insightguides.com). Discover the best of Mallorca following a series of tailor-made walks and tours written by local expert Tara Stevens, giving an insider’s take on this stunning Balearic island.

Part of Mallorca’s renaissance is down to the cultural charms of the capital Palma, where several routes are recommended taking in the historical, artistic and gastronomic charms, including a foodie tour exploring the fresh produce markets and the city’s best deli. Whizz through the south west where mass tourism meets the glitzy jet set and leads to sleepy inland villages. Explore Tramuntana, delving into the lives of previous residents Frédéric Chopin and Robert Graves. Relish the Modernista architecture of the island including the cathedral at Sóller, where even the railway station has its own art gallery.  Explore the glorious beaches of El Trenc, with craggy mountains, picturesque fishing villages, and secret coves.

Step by Step Mallorca has a fresh, contemporary design and beautiful photography. The variety of tours will appeal to all tastes and ages and includes hotspots for families, as well as relaxed, slow-paced villages and hip rural towns to kick back in. The 14 walks and tours are of varying lengths, each with easy-to-follow maps and hand picked places to refuel and shop en route. Most of the tours take just a day, such as visiting the caves and grottos of the east, while an overnight is recommended on the journey from Andratx to Banyalbufar.  And if choosing a tour is tricky, a preface highlights ‘recommended tours for….’ all interests from the great outdoors, to literature and wine, plus family adventures.  

The Guide acts as an informed friend with boxed highlights pinpointing not-to-be-missed experiences such as hiking in Sóller, water sports in the bay of Alćudia, and the wetlands of the Parc natural de Mondragó.   While the Only In Mallorca section highlights the famous sites such as the harbour at Cala Figuera, the remote monasteries of Mallorca’s hinterland, and the stunning village of Deià.  Our local writer also gives hot tips on best spots to shop, eat and drink - both during and after the tours.  Lunch stops can range from an up and coming beach shack, through to gourmet restaurants or sometimes the address is simply the unofficial meeting place for people in the area.   

Additionally the Guide provides the low-down on the island’s geography, history, food and drink, shopping, entertainment, and outdoor pursuits. There is also a pull out map with each tour clearly marked and colour-coded.  All tours have clear instructions, with start and end points and approximate timings. Plus there is a Directory section providing an A-Z of practical information from climate to transport, as well as accommodation, restaurant and nightlife listings for all budgets. 

Insight Guides’ Step by Step Mallorca is available from www.insightguides.com and all good book shops priced £8.99.