Europe with a Toddler : Mallorca and Ibiza

Here's a long overdue post on the island portion of our Spain travels last summer!  After a few wonderful days in Madrid, we hopped on the Disney cruise ship and headed off toward Mallorca - the largest island of the Balearic islands archipelago in Spain.  The ship docked in the capital, Palma.  And, my oh my, it was lovely!

First, we visited Bellver Castle - a 14th century fortress that overlooks the sea and the city of Palma.

The gothic architecture was so beautiful.  Fun Fact:  It's one of the few circular castles in Europe.

And, the view wasn't too shabby either...

After a little walk-about, we headed back toward town and the most spectacular Cathedral de Palma.

It happens to be the closest cathedral to the sea, which made for a pretty point of interest as the ship pulled in and out of port.

The surrounding gardens were so vibrant and lush.  I preferred the exterior architecture and beautiful gardens to the interior of the cathedral, which happened to be a little too gaudy for my tastes.  (which is funny because Gaudi just happened to design the interior renovation of the church!)

I hate to say it, but I actually prefer the look of this cathedral to the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.  It was much more detailed, more light-hearted in appearance, and grand.

The rose glass windows inside were quite spectacular.

After our visit to the cathedral, we snacked on a tasty local pastry called an Ensaimada with fresh ice cream. It was light and fluffy and sweet and HUGE.

It's made with pork lard instead of butter, which is likely why it's so delish.  Oink oink!!

Our parting shot of Palma, Mallorca looked like this...

After we departed from Mallora, the ship headed for Ibiza - the techno and night club capital of the world.

While I wasn't terribly stoked to rub shoulders with the typical glow stick swirling clientele, we figured we'd hop ship in the morning.  Most party people would still be hung over then anyways.

Who would miss a morning view of this??

 I was pleasantly surprised to find a quaint little town with lively cafes and boutique shops.

 Fish sticks anyone?  (or that's what it reminded me of...crazy American)

We had a great morning just walking around, taking a selfie here and there.

They had cool old cities walls and a fortress to visit, but we didn't make our way there because we had to get back to enjoy the cruise ship swimming pool and meet a princess or two.

Priorities, I tell ya...but I'd say it's worth a few sightseeing sacrifices when you go on a Disney cruise with an almost 4-year-old.

Some things are never worth missing! ;-)  Speaking of unmissable, the next travel post will feature our time in Barcelona...