Late April/ early May is a great time to visit Mallorca, with average temperatures of 19C, a daily average of 10 hours of sunshine, Easter over, crowds gone.

The northern Sierra Tramuntana mountains, in North West Mallorca, provide a spectacular backdrop for this relaxed bird watching and nature holiday based in the sleepy resort of Port de Pollenca. The town, once a fishing port, is situated on the sheltered bay of Alcudia and offers beautiful sandy beaches, pine and palm lined pedestrian walkways and plenty of cafes and restaurants.

Mallorca is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in birds. Any Mediterranean island is likely to be good for birds during migration times in spring or autumn when migrants are passing between Europe and Africa and may need to rest en route. However, most Mediterranean islands are relatively dry and unattractive to ducks, terns, gulls, herons, egrets and wading birds whereas Mallorca has the fabulous marsh of Albufera, probably the best wetland site on any Mediterranean island. In addition, Mallorca is home to birds such as Black Vulture, Eleonora’s Falcon, Audouin’s Gull, Moustached Warbler and Marmora’s Warbler which are all very rare or difficult to see in the rest of Europe.

For birdwatchers wishing to visit Mallorca, Port de Pollenca makes the perfect base as it is close to the Albufuera marsh, the mountains in the north of the island and the seacliffs of Formentor. There are also several great birdwatching spots within walking distance of the town, including the Boquer valley which is great for migrants.

During the holiday, we have an optional day out to Palma with free time for sightseeing, shopping or a lazy lunch. There will be plenty of time too, to soak up the sun, sample local foods and wines and just relax in good company. There is also a free day on this holiday when you can either do your own thing or do a half day trip to the spectacular Drach Caves (not included). The caves are some of the largest in Europe and contain a striking underworld full of stalactites and stalagmites. An underground river leads to a huge lake-filled cavern where you can listen to a classical concert played from aboard a boat.

Our hotel is made up of beautiful, spacious apartments where you will have your own suite with a lounge area with fridge, etc. The pool is wonderful and it should be relatively quiet at this time of year. It was a real hit last year.

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Single ensuite suite £1290 Twin shared ensuite suite £200 discount per person Price includes: Half board 4* hotel accommodation; Day trip to Palma; Transport to walks; Airport transfer meeting certain flights (TBC) Not included: Flight to Palma; lunch; personal expenses; insurance; optional cave trip

Hotel Playa Mar y Spa is located just 50 meters from the beach in a quiet area of Puerto de Pollenca. The complex has two swimming pools (one outdoor and one indoor), gardens with olive trees and views over the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. The 4-star hotel has a total of 168 suites distributed in three-storey buildings surrounded by gardens. Family friendly, it should however be fairly quiet in April outside the traditional school holidays.

Madeline Holloway is a natural history expert and freelance ecologist with a hugely impressive knowledge of birds and nature. She has been a walking guide for over 15 years and her enthusiasm for her subject is infectious. Be prepared to end up on your hands and knees magnifying glass in hand!

This holiday is very much about bird watching and nature and less about covering a lot of miles. The pace will be leisurely giving you the best chance to spot the wildlife and admire the flora and fauna.

The nearest airport is Palma in Mallorca and there will be a private transfer meeting certain flights. We will aim to provide a transfer for flight arriving at a similar time from at least London and Manchester. Flights TBC.