The Quiet Resort of Puerto Pollensa on the Island of Mallorca
Located on the northwest coast of Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands, Spain, the tranquil resort of Puerto Pollensa is a popular and attractive resort. Protected by Cap Formentor and the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains, Puerto Pollensa enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters that make it a perfect location all year round.
The resort has not been affected by development like many of the other popular Majorcan towns and retains much of its original fishing village charm. Attracting families and older generations, it became a holiday destination as early as the 1920s, when wealthy British citizens began looking for holiday homes away from the cold, wet UK winters. Cheaper flights and increased leisure time made the city even more popular during the 1960s and 1970s and a good variety of privately owned hotels and rental accommodation appeared to meet demand.
The nearby historic town of Pollensa (Pollença) was built inland from the port to protect it from the attacks of the Berber Pirates that plied these coasts many centuries ago, it has a history that goes back to the Roman occupation of Mallorca (Mallorca) although its Pont Rome (Roman Bridge) was probably built much later. Pollensa was named by settlers from nearby Alcudia after their former capital, this occurred during the 14th century.
The old town has a number of interesting places to visit, including the Calvari Church with its old wooden cross, located up 365 treacherous steps, lined with cypress trees, the old Jesuit convent that now functions as the town hall (Ayuntamiento), the old Plaza Mayor (Plaza del Pueblo), where local residents can be found enjoying coffee at the outdoor cafes, the Municipal Museum situated in a former Dominican convent with its displays of prehistoric sculptures dating back to pre-Roman times in Mallorca and some attractive churches, including the Parroquia de Nostra. Lady of the Angels dating from the thirteenth century.
Puerto Pollensa itself has the well-known Pine Walk, possibly the most beloved part of the complex, fronting a sheltered part of the great Badia de Pollença. The charming old fishing port now boasts numerous colorful luxury yachts moored alongside wind-warning Majorcan fishing boats that have plyed their ancient trade in the surrounding waters for many centuries. The beaches of Puerto Pollensa are safe and clean, although they have not yet obtained “Blue Flag” status, they are ideal for families, and there are also other smaller beaches nearby, not too crowded or noisy. The resort also has excellent water sports facilities for those with a little more adventure in their blood, as sunbathers watch with interest as they skillfully practice their sports some distance from the sandy beaches. Market day in Puerto Pollensa is on Wednesdays in the main church square, a popular place to pick up fresh produce or maybe a gift or two.
Puerto Pollensa is located on the MA-2200 between Alcudia and Pollensa, about 58 km from the capital of Mallorca, Palma. The trip from the airport takes about an hour and a half.
