Family getaway to Pollensa, Mallorca
Puerto de Pollensa
If you’re planning on a late summer getaway to Mallorca with a young family, you cannot beat Pollensa. Situated in the quieter Northern tip of the island, away from the package holidays and high-rise hotels of the southern towns, Pollensa is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. The old town is full of attractive narrow streets and has an impressive main plaza lined-with cafes, restaurants and bars.
A few kilometres away is Port de Pollensa with has some lovely beaches and a great selection of beachfront and harbourside restaurants and bars. The region is famous for its’ mountainous landscape, popular with cycling enthusiasts who flock here for the incredible cycling routes. Each time we have visited Pollensa we have stayed in both by the beach and close to the Old Town. Both are lovely and have their merits, which we will cover below.
The Old Town:
Pollensa Old Town
The old town is a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets and locally-run cafes and shops. Find your way to the impressive Plaça Mayor (main square) which is surrounded by a plenty of restaurants and cafes, perfect for a spot of breakfast, lunch, tapas or an evening meal. As the night falls, the square becomes quite busy with young children playing, whilst their parents enjoy a sundowner. The Old Town is lovely for an evening stroll to work off that paella and share an ice cream. Just off the square are the famous Calvari steps; climbing to the top is challenging but certainly worth the effort. You will be rewarded with spectacular views of Pollensa and there is a charming little cafe at the top of the steps for much needed refreshments.
The old town
The Calvari steps
365 steps later…
Plaça Mayor
During our first visit we stayed with family, renting a large, rustic villa on road Ma-2202. There a many rental villas and apartments in the neighbouring roads of the old town. Ours was a 5 minute drive to the old town and although close enough to walk, the surrounding roads are not exactly pedestrian-friendly. Not ideal for young children or a buggy!
Port de Pollensa
Sunset over Port de Pollensa
Port de Pollensa, is a straightforward 20 minute drive north from the busier tourist town of Alcudia. It has a fantastic stretch of sandy beach with small playgrounds at either end, toilet facilities and cafe’s. Even in the height of summer, we found there was plenty of available sun loungers (rentals) and space. There are number of restaurants and convenience stores along the seafront, plenty of which offer takeaway services, if you don’t want to give up your spot on the beach! Our favourite restaurant by the beach is Swing; a family-run restaurant with friendly staff, plenty of outdoor seating (including high chairs) and a fantastic menu of tapas, fresh seafood and of course, paella. There are no ugly high-rise hotels here, but plenty of discreet holiday rental apartment buildings, ideally situated for families.
The beach at Port de Pollensa
Paella Marinera @ Swing
When you reach the north end of the beach, you’ll find the marina with luxury yachts and sail boats bobbing on the sea. The pedestrianised waterfront is lined with cafes and restaurants to cater for all tastes. Most have plenty of outdoor seating where sea views can be enjoyed. Our favourite breakfast spot is Cappuccino Grand Cafe, an upscale, bistro vibe adjoined to Hotel Sis Pins. Grab a table on the terrace and enjoy the sea views, while sampling the extensive menu. Good quality pastries, sandwiches, some healthy options and every type of eggs you can hope for. Their Eggs Benedict is the stuff of dreams.
Port de Pollensa
Cappuccino Grand Cafe
Overall, Pollensa is a lovely part of Mallorca for holidaymakers of all ages and particularly ideal for families with young children looking for a more serene experience. We preferred staying close to the beach, for its’ amenities but the old town also has so much to offer, with a bit more of an authentic feel. It’s easy to see why people return here year after year, and we hope to visit again soon.
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