Pollensa is a town on Mallorca that lies 58km north-east of the capital Palma, at the foot of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range. Unlike some of its neighbouring coastal towns, which cater more for package holidaymakers, Pollensa has a traditional and old-fashioned air about it, and some truly authentic Spanish accommodation. Tourists have been visiting the town since the 1920s and many of the seafront hotels and other buildings are from that era, unlike the more common concrete blocks seen in most other places. The climate in the area is typically Mediterranean, with hot summers, especially in July and August, and mild winters. The resort doesn't have the kind of attractions you might get in the noisier, more crowded places, so if you're looking for water parks or kart tracking, you might be better off elsewhere. However, if you seek a relaxing break in beautiful and serene scenery, and some quiet time by the villa pool, this may be just the place for you. The old town of Pollensa has a market square, Placa Major, at its centre, where many of the locals gather to sell and buy produce at the weekly market. At one end of the square is the Nostra Senyora dels Angels, aa 13th century church founded by the Knights Templar on the site of a former Greek Temple.
Apartments and villas in Pollensa
As with much of coastal Spain, Pollensa boasts a huge variety of accommodation for holiday seekers. From traditional Spanish villas to modern open-plan apartments or charming guest houses, there is something to suit everyone.There are a number of pleasant, small commercial accommodation options, including La Moraleja, the Son Brull Hotel and Spa and Hotel Daina, but if you are looking for more of an interesting option though, Wimdu has you covered. For a unique and local experience, take a look at the many villa and apartment rentals available in Pollensia. From a rural villa to a beachside apartment, there is something to suit every budget. Your host may even have some great insider tips on the area to impart, and can tell you where to buy your local breakfast items and groceries. So if you’re looking for a quiet stay in a quaint Spanish village, renting a Wimdu villa in Pollensa will have you feeling like a local in no time - and probably get you looking at how to secure your own apartment in the area for a more permanent retreat!
Things to See and Do
1)Take a trip up to the old lighthouse on the Cami Vell del Far. This is a good 3-4 hour hike along a number of different paths so make sure you take a map and plenty of water, and wear good hiking shoes - and make sure you leave a towel by the front door of your apartment for when you get in (or a bikini by the pool!)
2) Grab a seat in one of the cafes on Placa Major square and watch the colourful hustle and bustle on market day.
3) Climb up to the Puig de Pollensa, a medieval monastery that is atop a hill of the same name. The monastery dates back to 1348 but the last nuns left in 1988 and it is since being used as a hostel with moderate prices.
4) Head up the 365 steps from the town to the El Calvario chapel at the top. On Good Friday there is a procession going down from the chapel to the town below.
Pollensa´s Food Delights
The Balearic Islands are rediscovering their traditional cuisine, with items such as Langosta a la parrilla, (spiny lobster with the local home-made mayonnaise) and many pork-based dishes on the menu. The restaurants Bar Nou and La Posada are both recommended for their fine Mallorcan food. For some fine dining (dress accordingly) book a table at Clivia, one of the more high-end restaurants in the town. Lobster, sea bass and shoulder of lamb feature on the menu. If you’re planning more of a self-catered affair back at the villa, check out the delicatessen shop Ensenyat, and for excellent local pastries, head to a typical panaderia on the Plaça Vella. The local speciality is an ensaimada, a spiral shaped yeast bun, that tastes delicious with morning coffee. Very good ice-cream is sold in many flavours at a stall in the Gelats Valls on the main square. There are also a number of great supermarkets out of the town where you can stock up on everyday supplies - perfect if you’re staying in a self-catered Wimdu villa.
Getting To and Around
The airport at Palma is quite a drive from Pollensa, heading first to Palma and from there towards Inca direction until you reach the Palma-Alcudia highway. Driving conditions in Pollensa are not good, so it is advised to move around the town on foot. There is an incline towards the direction of El Calvario but otherwise the town is easily navigated.