The Balearic Islands seldom see much rain between June and September, with the thermometer reaching 40 degrees Celsius. However, when the hot weather breaks, albeit just for a day or two, here are a few ideas on what to do when sunbathing is off the cards.

1. 1. Head for the hills. When the skies are grey, it is the perfect opportunity to use that rental car and explore the island. The 13th Century Sanctuary and Pilgrimage site at Lluc is only 25km from Puerto Pollensa. The spectacular setting in the heart of the Tramontana mountains and the exciting drive up, with arresting views, make this trip to Majorca's most sacred spot worthwhile. The ornately decorated Baroque-style church, housing the famous statue of the Virgin of Lluc, is genuinely splendid; the museum at the Cloisters, displaying a varied selection of archaeological and traditional artefacts, is also worth visiting. Lluc Monastery and the surrounding area of Escorca have several fabulous restaurants for a lunch stop. If you feel brave, continue down the Tramuntana to Sa Calobra, a hair-raising, hairpin driving experience not to be missed! For somewhere nearer but equally as beautiful, head around the bay towards Alcudia, follow the signs to Bonaire and take the short drive up to the Ermita de La Victoria, with splendid views out to sea all the way and a fabulous restaurant for coffee or lunch at the top, with numerous hiking options in the vicinity.

2. 2. Hit the shops. Alcudia and Pollensa and their respective ports have a fabulous selection of shops, from quaint boutiques in the villages, where you'll find local crafts,

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2. handmade jewellery, boho fashions and leather goods to larger stores in the Ports, stocking international and luxury brands, souvenirs, sporting goods, and perfumes for a fabulous day of retail therapy.

2. 3. Book an excursion. Mallorca is your oyster, with several companies offering coach trips all over the island to the Caves of Drach and Campanet, Palma City, Valledemosa and Soller, and Palma Aquarium, plus numerous boat trips. Be sure to be up early or book the day before. As a last-minute decision, hop on the local bus from Puerto Pollensa, which runs directly to Palma city centre several times a day.

3. 4. Take to the water. Temperatures in July, August and September rarely fall much below 20 degrees, even on cloudy days, with the sea even warmer with an average temperature of 26. If the skies are grey, but the waters are calm, Pollensa Bay has water sports options for all the family. From windsurfing to kitesurfing, pedalos, paddle boarding, diving and banana boating, there is something to suit all - or for something less active, take a glass-bottomed boat trip over to Formentor beach for a coffee.

4. 5. Storm watch. Puerto Pollensa's seafront is fabulous in the rain. On a thundery day, take a book and take shelter for a morning or afternoon at one of the bars along the Passeig, as lightning storms in Mallorca are not to be missed.