Island discovery:
Villa Isabella is situated in quiet, peaceful countryside just 5 minutes drive from the town of Inca. Inca is in the centre of the island of Mallorca, and it is a perfect base from which to discover the rest of the island.
Palma is only 15 -20 mins drive on the motorway south of Inca. It is well worth a visit for shopping, or just wandering and taking in the atmosphere, lovely architecture, and numerous restaurants and bars. The cathedral and the old quarter are also not to be missed.
The mountains are also a very short drive from Inca, as it is closer to the west part of the island. The tramuntana, as it is known, is surprisingly higher than it looks for the size of the island, and takes the visitor to another world, far removed from the busy activity of the tourist beaches. Well worth a visit are the monastery of Lluch, Soller and Port of Soller, further south the charming village of Valldemossa ( where Chopin lived), and Deia. To the north is the historic town of Pollensa.
Beaches,Theme parks and Caves:
The beautiful 12km long, white sandy beach of Alcudia is only 20 mins drive from Inca. Here there are boat trips to Formentor, catamaran trips, a hydro park, horse riding, or pony riding for smaller children. The beach also has kite surfing, windsurfing, banana boat rides, boat parachuting - as well as crystal clear water for excellent swimming!
Other beaches include the Port of Pollensa, Ca'n Picafort, and Son Serra de la Marina in the north. To the east is Cala Ratjada, Cala Millor, and Santanyi ( a naturist beach). Near Palma are the beaches of Arenal and Playa de Palma. Family attractions include Marineland, Aqua City, Palma Aquarium, Kathmandu, and night shows such as Son Amar ( dinner and show extravaganza), and the Pirate Show - all a short drive from Inca.
Also worth visiting are the Caves of Drach, at Porto Cristo - the deepest caves in Europe, with spectacular caverns, and a floating music concert. Closer are the Campanet Caves, smaller, but very also very beautiful.
Markets and local fare:
Every Thursday morning, the town of Inca comes alive with the biggest market on the island. This bustling market attracts sellers and buyers alike, from all over the island, and there is a huge range of produce - great for a bargain, or just wander and be part of it.
Another market well worth a visit, is the farmer's market of Sineu ( 10 mins by car from Inca). This is held every Wednesday morning, and sells everything from live goats and puppies and kittens, to art and craft, to antiques!
Children especially enjoy seeing the animals. The neighbouring town of Campanet also has a market every Friday, and Alcudia every Sunday and Tuesday mornings.
As mentioned before, Inca is well known for it's leather industry, and there are many factory outlets selling shoes, bags, jackets and coats. 20 mins drive to the east is Manacor, which manufactures pearls ( it is home to the world famous Majorica pearls), plus ceramics, olive wood and liquor tasting.
