Majorca’s northeast corner is directly opposite the Brits’ traditional favourite resorts in the southwest. On one side, the Irish bars and high-rises of Palma Nova and Magaluf; on the other, the stunning coastline and ancient towns of Formentor and Pollenca.
For those who want all the benefits of the Balearics – sun, sea, sand and amazing scenery – but think the big resorts aren’t for them, this would be the perfect place to recommend.
The area around Pollenca is popular with the self-drive villa and private rental crowd, and is a warren of country roads and lanes dotted with houses ranging from traditional farmhouses to ultra-modern estates.
Whether your clients are an older couple looking for some peace and quiet, a young family after some security and a private pool or a large group of friends hoping to chill out for a week, the region offers a wealth of places to see and things to do.
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Pollenca
Pollenca is a delightful town, and on Sunday it bursts to life as traders from around the region arrive to sell their wares at the weekly market. At other times the streets around the main square are great for a quiet meander – and families with children can relax in the cafes as their offspring mix happily within eyeshot.
The main attraction is the 365 steps up to the chapel known as Calvary. In the heat of the day, the walk certainly isn’t easy and can also get very busy, so it’s worth advising your customers to try it out in the morning or towards the end of the day.
For those who prefer town to country, there are villa and hotel options in the old town itself, and those that choose this option have the added benefit of enjoying Pollenca’s restaurants and bars without needing a taxi or designated driver.
Port de Pollenca
Like the inland town with which it shares a name, Port de Pollenca is ideal for families. The beach is clean and safe, and handily located in the town if the heat of the sun gets too much for the little ones. There is also an array of restaurants along the bay offering great food in a prime location.
The seafront Pine Walk, which continues when the restaurants end, is a great way to build up an appetite. The pretty inlets of Cala San Vicente are just a few minutes’ drive away if you want a change of scenery – more adventurous clients could get there on foot.
Formentor
Tell clients planning to get out to the lighthouse at Cap de Formentor to leave early. The narrow winding roads along the headland can get congested but the journey is certainly worth it.
More easily accessible is Formentor Beach, which is also reachable by boat from Port de Pollenca. The beach is narrow, but the sea is calm and shallow, so it’s perfect for those with children.
For clients with a bit of money to spend, the four-star Barcelo Hotel Formentor has the perfect setting and view across the bay, and those not so lucky can always plonk themselves on the beach below the gardens and dream.
