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IN THE second half of the year, the holiday hot spots of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera offer a more authentic glimpse into island life, where art, tradition, outdoor adventure and gastronomy take centre stage. It’s a time to explore the rich culture and standout calendar dates that define the islands in their truest form.
With pleasant temperatures, fewer visitors and a packed calendar of annual festivals, the Balearic Islands (AETIB) have rounded up the best activities to enjoy on each island during the second half of the year.
Gastronomy in Mallorca
Mild in taste and of excellent quality, Mallorcan olive oil comes from centuries-old olive trees that still stand in the mountains of the Serra de la Tramuntana. This year, Aubocassa will be celebrating its 30-year anniversary, offering tours of its olive groves and olive oil tastings for 30 euros per person, while Finca Sestablit is offering visitors the opportunity to take part in the olive harvest before a traditional Mallorcan meal at the Finca for just 35 euros per person.
Food lovers can also head to Cala Rajada for the annual Mostra de la Llampuga, celebrating the arrival of the seasonal mahi-mahi fish, locally known as llampuga. Local chefs showcase creative seafood dishes alongside artisan markets, traditional music, cultural performances and the ever-popular giant community paella that rounds off the festivities.
Outdoor Adventure in Menorca
For travellers hoping to embrace the island’s wild side in cooler climes, discover rural Menorca through the Camí d’En Kane route. This dry-stone path was built by the British governor Sir Richard Kane in the 18th century with the intention of facilitating communication between the military on the island.
Menorca is a great destination for cyclists, with the two most important towns, Ciutadella and Mahón, only 50 km apart. Six routes run across the island to connect both villages, and cyclists should be sure to stop off at Ferreries to visit the ruins of the Castell de Santa Àgueda, enjoy a coffee at the white village of Es Mercadal, and explore the narrow, medieval streets of Alaior.
Nature in Ibiza
A must-see sight in Ibiza in October is Ses Salines Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site separating Ibiza and Formentera with ancient salt mounds, where visitors can spot hundreds of pink flamingos as they stop on their migratory journey south, as well as over 200 other bird species. With the summer heat subsided, autumn is the perfect time to get out the binoculars and enjoy a moment of peace in the great outdoors.
Snorkellers can also take to the waters of Ses Salines to explore the large Posidonia oceanica sea grass meadows which cover the seabed. This marine plant is of great ecological value and grows only in the Mediterranean, cleans and oxygenates the water, and contributes to the natural dynamics of the dunes.
Local Festivals in Formentera
Every year on October 12, celebrations are held in the town of La Mola in honour of its patron saint, Our Lady of the Pillar. Beginning with mass, the parishioners of La Mola then take all the saints of the parish in procession, led by the image of the Virgin, through the streets of the town centre. The celebration continues with the traditional peasant dances and the people gathered sharing typical liquors, orelletes and other typical delicacies of the island.
Creativity also flourishes during Tardor d’Art Formentera, the island’s annual contemporary art festival. From October 5-17, exhibitions, installations, photography, performances and workshops take place in galleries and outdoor spaces across the island, bringing together Balearic and international artists to explore themes including sustainability, identity and island heritage. Visitors can meet artists, participate in discussions and experience contemporary art set against some of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular natural landscapes.
Whether discovering world-class art, celebrating local traditions or enjoying exceptional seasonal cuisine, autumn and winter 2026 reveal a quieter, more authentic side of the Balearic Islands—one that rewards visitors looking to experience the destination beyond the peak summer season.
The 'Travel' Life of Brian 