Around one-fifth of Mallorca's hotels stay open in winter

What happens to Mallorca's hotels when the season ends?

As the beaches become emptier and parking becomes easier, not all accommodations close. About one-fifth of the hotels on Mallorca plan to stay open in the coming winter months as well. That may seem small, but it's enough to keep village life going in some places through the quiet season.

Where does the offering remain?

Especially in places like Sóller and the Bay of Palma, many properties stay open longer than before. Locally, you hear that some properties close only in mid-November and start welcoming guests again in March. That's practical: the departures of summer guests shift, receptions stay staffed, and the local bakery continues to have work.

Who is Mallorca attractive to in winter?

The target group is clear: older travelers, often under the Spanish Imserso program, seek quiet, moderate temperatures, and structured programs. But it's not only retirees — in conference halls you meet delegations, in halls small sports teams, and in theaters cultural groups. You can tell: the island is leaning more toward congresses, sport and cultural tourism in the off-season.

Early mornings on the Passeig Marítim have then a different atmosphere. At 8 o'clock, some guests with time sit for coffee, read the newspaper and exchange travel plans. This isn't mass tourism, but a reliable tempo for cafes, taxi drivers and bus connections.

What does this mean for the industry?

The hotel association FEHM describes the extended season as a fixed part of the yearly business now. For hoteliers this means: rethink staffing, adjust offers (breakfast times, cultural packages, transfer services) and master the balancing act between costs and benefits. Some properties even open earlier in spring than before, because hiking and cycling groups return.

For the service sector, the effect is mixed. Fewer guests mean lower overall turnover, but those who do come bring steadier bookings and often also demand for activities outside the beaches — museums, concerts, exhibitions.

My impression after several winters on the island

As someone who walks around here more often in November, it strikes me: the city centers breathe, while corners where hotels are open stay lively. It is no longer the full winter slumber of the past. The island is changing slowly, not rapidly — and for some that is quite pleasant.

Short conclusion: About 20 percent of the hotels ensure that Mallorca remains accessible during the winter months — for seniors, conference and sports groups. Extending the season helps some regions and requires the industry to come up with new ideas.