These days you're far more likely to see Majorca written as Mallorca but, while the pronunciation remains the same it's a sign that other things have changed too. This particularly applies if you have a stereotypical image of the island.

As I sipped a glass of fine Cabernet Sauvignon against the scenic backdrop of the island's Son Bordils wine estate, which dates back to the 15th century, it was about as far removed as I could get from the sangria-fuelled parties in grotty nightclubs I remembered from many years ago.

You'll still find wall-to-wall bars and chips-with-everything cafes in Magaluf, but there is so much more to this island than that.

With virtually year-round sunshine and 325 miles of coastline, it is easy to see why the island has been one of Spain's major tourist destinations since the 1960s. But the island was discovered by travellers long before then and this year the tourist board celebrates its 100th anniversary.

My first port of call was Port de Pollensa, on the north eastern side of the island. Wherever you go it's very easy to get around Mallorca as it's only 60 miles across at its widest point.

Car hire is relatively inexpensive or there are plenty of guided excursions and cyclists abound.

Hotel Illa d'Or is one of the Reis de Mallorca properties and, like the other hotels in the group, the perfect antidote for anyone who has endured holidays in characterless concrete clad hotels.

Whether you want to reside in an Art Deco dome, a rustic retreat or a cool townhouse you'll find a property to suit.

Illa d'Or has been enchanting visitors for the past 76 years and one of its illustrious early guests was Agatha Christie.

It provided the inspiration for the fictional hotel in her short story Problem in Pollensa, published in 1936.

Many first time visitors are surprised by Mallorca's varied landscape.

The north coast is the place to go for really dramatic scenery, the south coast is dominated by the capital Palma and beautiful sandy bays whilst the contrasting tranquil interior is home to small villages, farmland, olive groves and almond orchards.

It was near Inca, in the heart of the countryside, that we stopped off at the Son Bordils estate to taste the locally-produced wine.

Visitors are always welcome, although if you're part of a large group it's best to call in advance.

The vineyard was replanted in 1991 and produces ten varieties of quality red, white and rose wines, which you'll find in many local restaurants.

La Reserva Rotana is a fantastic rural retreat just perfect for escaping the crowds. Set in the middle of a 500-acre working farm, it's popular with celebrities although discreet staff avoid any name dropping.

The 17th century manor house is now a luxury hotel where original stone walls, works of art and sculptures are features in all the individually-designed bedrooms.

To get the best of both worlds you can always take a two-centre holiday. Our trip ended in the elegant port city of Palma.

The massive cruise ships disgorge their passengers on one-day stopovers so it is worth straying off the well-trodden tourist route.

Tucked behind familiar fast food restaurants and well-known high street names is the Old Quarter.

Get lost in the labyrinth of streets interspersed with washing hanging from windows and elegant courtyards.

Stop off at the Ca'n Joan de S'aigo cafe in Calle de Can Sana, the oldest ice cream parlour in Mallorca famous for wonderful hot chocolate and traditional pastries. But whatever you do go to Mallorca and be prepared to see a different side of the island.