When planning a family holiday, we knew this trip had to be extra special. It wasn’t just any holiday; it was a celebration of significant milestones—our first wedding anniversary, my parents’ wedding anniversary, my dad’s birthday, and, most remarkably, my grandparents’ 60th wedding anniversary. With such important events to commemorate, we needed a destination that would cater to all ages in our family, from the youngest at 25 to the oldest at 83, and also accommodate the mobility issues some of us faced.
The Perfect Destination: Cala D’or, Majorca
After extensive research and numerous discussions, we decided on Cala D’or, a charming coastal town on the beautiful Balearic island of Majorca. We wanted a destination that was both relaxing and accessible, offering something for everyone. Cala D’or’s stunning beaches, vibrant town, and serene atmosphere made it the ideal location for our family gathering. We chose to travel in early May, slightly out of the peak season, to avoid crowds and ensure a more peaceful experience. Additionally, a long weekend from Friday to Monday allowed us to balance work commitments with our desire for a memorable holiday.
Seamless Travel with British Airways
As loyal Executive Club members with British Airways, we booked our flights to Majorca in Club Europe, their short-haul business class service. This was our first time flying from London Gatwick since the pandemic, as BA had returned to Gatwick with their Euroflyer service. We had always preferred Heathrow for its convenience, but this time Gatwick offered the only flight to Palma, providing the perfect opportunity to try something new.
Upon arrival at Gatwick, we were pleasantly surprised by the new check-in area. BA had clearly invested in enhancing their operation here, with an intimate and modern Business & First Class check-in area. Despite the early morning hour, the check-in staff were incredibly helpful and attentive, making sure all our needs were met, particularly for the older members of our party who required special assistance.
After a swift journey through fast-track security, we headed straight to the BA Lounge. Given the early hour, we opted to relax with a cup of tea or coffee and some light pastries. The lounge at Gatwick was a revelation—it was more intimate and had a cosier, more premium feel compared to the Galleries Lounge at Heathrow, which tends to cater more to business travellers. Clearly, this lounge had been designed with holidaymakers in mind, offering a more relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Boarding was smooth, and thanks to our status, we were among the first to board the plane. Granny had booked special assistance, which made the journey to the gate and the plane much easier for her. We occupied rows 1 and 2 on the Airbus A321, and the in-flight crew were outstanding. The lead cabin crew member was friendly, knowledgeable, and exceptionally patient, recognising that some of the older members of our group needed a bit more time to make decisions and process information. The flight was on time, and after a few short hours, we arrived in Palma.
A Luxurious Stay at Our Beachfront Villa in Cala D’or
Our villa, a luxurious beachfront property overlooking Cala Gran, provided the perfect setting for our family celebration. The villa’s location was truly unbeatable, offering direct access to Cala Gran beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Cala D’or. The peaceful and private setting allowed us to unwind and enjoy each other’s company, while the proximity to the town centre meant that we had all the conveniences of shops, restaurants, and bars just a short walk away.
The villa was spacious and thoughtfully designed to accommodate a large, multi-generational family like ours. With five bedrooms, each offering either a stunning sea view or a view of the private pool, there was plenty of space for everyone to feel comfortable. My parents took the luxurious rooftop bedroom with its own private terrace, while Granny and Grandpa stayed on the ground floor, which was perfect for them given the ease of access. The younger members of the family took the first-floor bedrooms, which also offered breathtaking views of the sea.
The villa’s kitchen and living areas were perfect for our needs. The modern, light-filled space allowed us to gather together comfortably, whether it was for a family meal or simply relaxing in the evenings. My partner and I, both keen cooks, took on the challenge of preparing meals for the entire family. We crafted a menu that catered to the diverse tastes and preferences of three generations, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. We kept things simple yet delicious, with a variety of meats, salads, and breads, while also adding some more adventurous dishes that were a hit with the younger members of the group. From hearty breakfasts to leisurely lunches by the pool and elegant dinners on the terrace, every meal was a shared experience that brought us closer together.
One of the highlights of our stay was the villa’s infinity pool, which could be heated during the cooler months. Although it was early May, we were fortunate with the weather, and the pool was a focal point for relaxation and fun throughout the weekend. The villa’s large terrace, with its stunning views over the bay of Cala Gran, provided the perfect backdrop for our celebrations, whether we were toasting to my grandparents’ remarkable 60 years of marriage or simply enjoying the beautiful Majorcan sunset.
Exploring Cala D’or and Beyond
While the villa itself was a haven of tranquility, we were also keen to explore the local area. Cala D’or town was just a short, scenic walk away, offering a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and bars. Granny, who had always been hesitant about using a mobility scooter, was eager to explore Cala D’or as it was one of the few places she hadn’t visited before. We hired a mobility scooter for her, which cost around €60 for the weekend—a small price to pay for the joy it brought her. She relished the freedom to explore the town at her own pace, visiting local shops and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
For those of us who wanted to venture further afield, there were plenty of options. A ten-minute walk took us to the picturesque Cala D’or Marina, where we admired the stunning yachts and enjoyed a leisurely coffee at one of the waterfront cafes. A short drive away was Mondrago National Park, a breathtakingly beautiful area with pristine beaches and walking trails. Some of our party also took the opportunity to play a round of golf at the nearby Val D’or Golf Club, while others indulged in a spot of horse riding or scuba diving.
A Weekend to Remember
Our long weekend in Cala D’or was everything we had hoped for and more. The combination of a luxurious, well-located villa, seamless travel with British Airways, and the charm of Cala D’or itself made for an unforgettable family holiday. We celebrated our milestones in style, with the perfect balance of relaxation, exploration, and quality time together. Whether it was watching the sunrise over Cala Gran from the villa’s terrace, enjoying a homemade meal with the family, or simply soaking up the beauty of Majorca, every moment was special.
For anyone looking to plan a multi-generational family holiday, Cala D’or offers the perfect blend of accessibility, luxury, and charm. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant town, and range of activities to suit all ages, it’s a destination that truly has something for everyone. And when combined with the comfort and convenience of a stunning beachfront villa, it becomes a place where memories are made and cherished for a lifetime.
