November and December are the perfect months to explore the lesser known areas of Mallorca. Hire a car, hop onto a bus or use Mallorca's rejuvenated rail network to travel to some of the islands traditional towns and villages. Many visitors to Mallorca stay in the beach resorts either side of the capital Palma, the coastal areas in the north around Alcudia and Pollenca or the beach resorts on the east coast like Cala Millor or Porto Christo.

What many people don't experience are the many Monasteries located around the island. As well as the architectural interest and, for many, the spectacular panoramic views provided by their locations, several of the monasteries on Mallorca also offer accommodation. Examples of those allowing visitors to stay overnight include the Santuari de Sant Salvador Salvador near Felanitx, the Santuari de Nostra Dona de Cura at Randa and the beautiful Lluc Monastery in the north of the island. The monastery of Randa is reached after a 5 kilometre uphill drive and provides amazing views of Palma to the south and the sweeping bay of Alcudia to the north. The origins of the Lluc Monastery date back to the seventeenth century and, as well as providing accommodation, cafes and souvenir shops, it is also a convenient start point for a cross-country walk of 5 miles down the stunning Torrent de Pareis to the coast at Sa Collobra.

Also of interest are the many local fairs and markets that are held regularly across the island in the towns and villages. During December many of these will take on a Christmas feel, while some towns organise specific Christmas Fairs. One example is the Mercado de Navidad, or Christmas Market, in the Pueblo Espanol, Palma. This took place between the 3rd and 7th December during the afternoons and evenings. There will also be Christmas markets in Andratx, Santa Ponca and in Palma's Plaza Mayor square.

Flythomascook.com have flights to Palma de Mallorca throughout the winter from a choice of 7 UK airports.