Just a short flight away, with Mediterranean temperatures and charming beaches, it’s easy to understand why Mallorca is one of the UKs’ top holiday destinations. The largest of the Balearic Islands can however leave you stuck for choice on which area to spend that precious holiday time. Look no further! The North of the Island will not disappoint. With beach favourites such as Playa de Muro, family friendly resorts such as Puerto Pollensa and Alcudia, and only a 45 minute drive from Palma international airport, what more could you want?
Not sold? Take a more in depth look at what you can expect…
Pollensa
Pollensa allows you to see the true Mallorca; it truly is the perfect Mallcoran town. With its must see traditional markets held in Pollensa square (situated within the old town), they run from around 8:30am to 1:00pm on a Sunday. Allowing you to shop till you drop for your all your family’s wants and needs!
It’s likely that after the hustle and bustle of the markets a good recharge will be required. Take a seat within one of the many cafes situated within the square and enjoy a truly delicious café con leche (coffee with milk), while the kids enjoy a locally produced ice cream from the ice cream stall.
Insiders tip: Here you’ll find the best ice cream on the island but be warned; the decision can be tough with 30 flavours to choose from.
Later on, if you fancy a bit of site seeing the Calavri steps are a must see, all 365 of them! With a special place in the heart of many, the spectacular views make the climb worthwhile; just ask the thousands of people who visit yearly for the Easter parade. Situated on the steps are the homes of privileged residents, and some of the quaintest boutique stores.
Insiders tip: Treat yourself to some unique jewellery from ‘Itsi Bitsi’.
The outskirts of Pollensa Town will leave you captivated, with many hidden hotels, café’s, bars and restaurants, all worth a second glance.
Insiders tip: Enjoy an evening meal in Terncadora andil Giardino.
Puerto de Pollensa
Situated around the Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains, Peurto Pollensa is a remarkable location for all kinds of holiday. Although very less hectic than the south of the island, there’s something to offer everyone. Concentrated around the eye-catching marina, it can keep you busy for hour’s day dreaming about which yacht you would prefer to own.
Insiders tip: Dine in style at the high end restaurant Stay, situated within the marina. With breathtaking beaches either side of the marina, it’s heaven for all you sun seekers.
If you prefer a little more to do, the range of water sports activities are second to none, from scuba diving to jet skiing, windsurfing to pedaloes, parasailing and canoeing, you’re sure to be kept busy.
If relaxation is more your fancy, a key attraction within the port is the pine walk; you’ll be spoilt for choice on places to eat, drink and shop along the way. With many cafes’ such as Cappuccino and Café 1919, you’ll not need persuading to sit down and have a drink with cake, while taking in the stunning scenery around you. And the same goes for your evening meal, although if you’re worried about cost, there are good restaurants available for all budgets and tastes!
The port will keep you busy during the day and night, and always has a calming, relaxed atmosphere. The evenings, that bring cooler weather, are the perfect opportunity to have a look through the plentiful array of shops, whereas the children may prefer to stare in amazement at the many sandcastle displays showcased on the beach in the evening.
Insiders tip: Try the meal of the day at Tango, 3 courses with plenty to choose from for only €16.90. Plus the food is amazing.
Insiders tip: Fancy a drink? Many of the cafes also double as bars, although it may not be full of boozed up Brits; there are plenty of places to choose from, such as the Marina Café.
Alcudia
The walled town of Alcudia will you give you an interesting and historic twist to your holiday, being the oldest town in Mallorca. With the opportunity to walk around the wall above the town, it gives you the chance to view some very memorable sights of the ancient town. Situated within the walls of the town, a market is held every Sunday and Tuesday morning, with plenty to purchase from fresh fruit to jewellery, clothing to souvenirs.
Continue wandering through the beautiful narrow streets, which often lead to lovely squares with relaxing atmospheres. Here many people like to take a seat and watch the world go by.
The historic feel of the town continues on either side of the walls. On one side are the ancient ruins of the City of Pollentia, where entrance is €2.00 per person and you’re able to view the site freely. Continue through to the Monographic Museum that contains many Roman exhibitions to fill you of knowledge on the remarkable sites just viewed. Or take a look to the other side, home to an accent traditional bullfighting ring. Although Mallorca is not a main venue for bullfighting it’s still a key tradition of Balearic culture. A fight is held at the venue twice a year but is available for viewing throughout the rest of the year.
Insiders tip: Take a boat trip from Alcuida to Formentor but more on Formentor later…
Puerto Alcudia
Long stretches of sandy beach with mountain drop backgrounds are one of the many benefits to visiting Puerto Alcudia. It’s perfect for families as the beaches here are long and wide, with shallow waters.
Insiders tip: There’s a small playground situated at the end of the beach to help keep the children busy.
With the beach being one of the main attractions, many hotels, cafes’ and restaurants’ are situated along the beachside and offer a range of amenities suitable for all. The harbour, with enviable yachts moored along the coastline is also a key attraction for the Port. There are rumours that Michael Schumacher likes to keep his Yacht here, the ‘Smooth Operator’ as they call him.
However, if this isn’t your style, it’s likely you’ll be able to find something within the many shops here, from Mango to Pandora, and plenty of souvenir shops open until late. Why not finish your day/night in one of the many cafés with a Chocolate Caliente (traditional hot chocolate, thick enough to stand a spoon in).
Insiders tip: Take a long walk along the beach path in the evening and take in the stunning sandy beach whilst enjoying the sunset.
Formentor
Here you will find a little piece of paradise in the form of a secluded beach in the north of Mallorca. Formentor has only one hotel, the Barcelo Hotel Formentor, a 5* property concealed at the back of the beach.
The beach offers crystal clear sea and fine white sand, generally what makes it truly one of the most fantastic beaches in Mallorca. Although secluded, there is plenty of transport available. One of the most popular is a boat ride from other parts of the island, such as Alcudia. This trip allows you to see more of the beauty that is Mallorca and offers a full day on one of their finest beaches.
Insiders tip: Bring lunch with you as the only food available can be a little on the expensive side.
Other transport options are buses and cars for hire, which allow you to take a journey through the 13.5 km windy roads and mountains, catching spectacular views on route.
Insiders tip: Parking costs €6 for the day.
So now you have read about some of the treasures within the north of the Mallorca, why not plan your next holiday there. It’s guaranteed that the island will offer you a fantastic break and will capture your heart as it has done with many. Treat yourself and enjoy the magnificent, much loved island!
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