Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Therefore, TT_ invites locals and creatives to share their most cherished places at their favorite destinations. Today: MALLORCA through the lens of ELISE BAK, CONTENT CREATOR, PODCAST HOST, ENTREPRENEUR, and MOTHER of baby girl LILY. Cover image: courtesy of Elise Bak
Born on the island of Mallorca, Elise Bak was raised in The Netherlands. When visiting her home country with her mother, she immediately feels drawn to the island’s magnetic energy. “We moved to The Netherlands when I was a baby, so my childhood memories of the island start a little later. I remember strolling around the alleys of Palma, for example. It was fun,” she recalls fondly. “I feel at home at Mallorca,” Bak continues. “I’ve always felt drawn to Spain, but Mallorca hits differently. The island makes me feel at ease. It’s very peaceful.”
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MALLORCA THROUGH THE LENS OF ELISE BAK
As if living the life of a content creator, podcast host, and entrepreneur wasn’t enough, Bak became a mother in 2023. It changed her view of the island. “I went back there with my mother, and it felt like a full-circle moment. Making memories with my mom while carrying my baby was an experience that’s hard to express in words.” That last trip evoked some of her warmest memories on the island. “I spent a week with my mother, followed by a week with my best friends. We stayed at the beautiful Finca Casa Mana. It was slightly more relaxed than our usual getaways, but I was pregnant. Following this slow-paced life, driving around the island and cooking at home felt amazing.”
In Amsterdam, where Bak has lived for more than ten years, life flies by faster. Together with “The Gurnels,” she hosts a weekly podcast, creates content daily, runs a business, and cares for Lily with her boyfriend. Unsurprisingly, Mallorca’s “soft, balanced, warm, and magical energy” appeals to her.
BEST PLACES TO GO STRUTTING
“The north of the island offers the best villages for strutting. Deia and Valldemossa are my favorites.”
BEST PLACE TO RELAX
“I would also opt for the north! The beaches on that side of the island are serene. Try Numa Beach Club, and I’ve heard great stories about it.”
BEST SPOTS TO SURROUND YOURSELF WITH NATURE
“Discover the village of Fornalutx in the northwestern part of the island. In the south, visit Salines d’Es Trenc. It’s Mallorca’s most southern and salty place and a great place to spot flamingos! I also love Artà, which is on the northeastern coast. If you go there, stay at Finca S’Estelrica.”
BEST RESTAURANTS IN MALLORCA
“Nama Deia has a great Asian kitchen and stunning mountain views. Furthermore, I would suggest Terragust during the summer months. This place offers dinners on the farmland, with solely local produce. At last, Rigito Palma is an excellent Italian restaurant in Palma City.”
MALLORCA’S BEST COFFEE BARS
“Mallorca has great coffee places. As a coffee lover, I can’t go without a visit to Mistral Coffee, La Molienda, and Fika Farina.”
BEST BEACH CLUBS IN MALLORCA
“Caso Patro March is very idyllic. Don’t miss it! Furthermore, Beso Beach and Numa Beach are my favorites.”
MALLORCA’S BEST SHOPS
“Terra Origens is a beautiful concept store I always visit on the island. Another favorite must be De Moniö Deia, a hidden gem serving delicious food.”
WHERE DO LOCALS GO?
“That’s tricky. Mallorca has become very touristy over the years, and few places are left unnoticed. However, I guess Porto Colom is still quite relaxed. I also love to purchase on a terrace at Place de Sant Jaume and people-watch for the entire afternoon surrounded by locals.”
ONE THING NOT TO MISS…
“A couple! Cala Mondrago, Calo des Moro, and Cala Llombards! I would recommend following Marron Esmée. She lives in Mallorca and never disappoints in discovering the latest hotspots.”
