‘For me, Mallorca is home’: Paralympian shares her favourite ways to recharge on the Spanish island

Sitting in the sunlit, open forest deep in the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage location, I put my hands onto a large rock, breathe in the scent of warm pine, and hear distant voices from the choir in the nearby Lluc Monastery.

I have always been drawn to naturally beautiful places and spaces.

As a Paralympic cyclist I’ve often become too preoccupied with the busyness of life - organising myself around the events, demands and activities of each day. No one taught me how crucial time in natural spaces could be for my wellbeing and happiness. 

During challenging times, I’ve been compelled to halt the hectic schedules and pause to reflect on my circumstances, events and feelings. Mallorca is a place that helps me to do this.

Northern Mallorca, where mountains meet a striking coastline, has a relaxed Mediterranean culture and a stillness most palpable in the quieter autumn and winter months. The evocative and restorative effect of nature in this part of the island has been a source of energy for me for many years. It is a place of regeneration.

For me, Mallorca is home. But breaking routine and being in new environments is a wonderful way to address unhealthy habits, gain perspective on our lives and strengthen our minds and bodies. 

Inspired by my own experiences in Mallorca, I want to help others harness the island’s abundant restorative power - and getting active in nature here is a great way to do it.

So here are some of my favourite places in Mallorca to help you reconnect with nature, and your inner strength.

With its old squares, churches and cobblestone streets, Pollença old town exudes charm and is a special place to soak up the traditional culture of the island. 

I love relaxing in a cafe in the town's central