Discover the Beauty of Northern Mallorca

The northern region of Mallorca offers an enchanting blend of rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Let’s embark on a journey through picturesque towns and stunning landscapes, highlighting the unmissable destinations of Pollença, Port de Pollença, Cap de Formentor, Alcúdia, and other must-visit places.

Pollença

Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Tramuntana mountain range, Pollença is a true gem. The town’s blonde stone architecture evokes a rich historical ambiance, with 2000-year-old Roman ruins harmoniously mingling with a vibrant local scene. Explore the charming streets adorned with cafes and shops selling locally crafted goods, such as ceramics and jewelry.

At the center of Pollença lies Plaça Major, a lively square flanked by bars and restaurants that spill out onto the cobblestones. Sundays witness a vibrant market taking over the square, while the 18th-century Mare de Santa Maria dels Àngels church, boasting a stunning rose window, overlooks the square.

The image of the 365 steps leading up to El Calvari chapel is synonymous with Pollença. It’s worth the effort to climb them once during your stay, as the reward is sweeping views of the town, the Tramuntana mountains, the Puig de Maria, and the sparkling sea.

The unmistakable Puig de Maria dominates the landscape surrounding Pollença. A 330m peak crowned by the Santuari de la Mare de Déu del Puig, this site offers breathtaking vistas. Adventurous souls can embark on a hike (5.4 km return trip) to the top, where glorious panoramas of Pollença and the captivating Cap de Formentor await.

The Claustre de Sant Domingo convent houses the Tourist Office and the Museo de Pollença, showcasing archaeological finds and paintings dating back to ancient Rome. The nearby Joan March gardens feature indigenous plants, contemporary sculptures, and the medieval Desbrull tower. Though its name suggests Roman origins, the picturesque stone bridge, Pont Romà, is believed to be a medieval construction. Nevertheless, it holds great historical significance for the town, as it has provided locals with safe passage over the Torrente de Sant Jordi for generations.

Port de Pollença

A short distance from Pollença lies the charming Port de Pollença, a former fishing village adorned with whitewashed houses. Backdropped by the Tramuntana mountains, its beaches and sheltered promenades offer an idyllic setting. Nature enthusiasts will relish a visit to the nearby S’Albufera Nature Reserve.

Natural park of S’Albufera

For a striking contrast to the rocky coastline and arid landscapes, head to S’Albufera, the largest marshland area on the island. Its rivers, lagoons, and grasses provide a vital habitat for an abundance of bird species. Explore the walking and cycling trails and discover birdwatching hides, offering a unique opportunity to observe the rich avian life.

Cap de Formentor

No trip to northern Mallorca would be complete without a visit to the breathtaking Cap de Formentor. This rugged peninsula boasts awe-inspiring views from every angle and culminates in the iconic Formentor lighthouse. Embark on the 6 km scenic drive to the lighthouse, meeting mountain goats on your way, passing through pine forests, coves, and islets, with the panoramic Mal Pas viewpoint offering a must-stop spot along the way. Note that during the summer, the road is closed to public traffic during midday hours.

Cala Formentor

Cala Formentor is a stunning pine-clad beach nestled in a picturesque cove, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. At one end of the beach stands the tranquil Hotel Formentor, a renowned establishment that has hosted many celebrity guests such as Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Grace Kelly with Prince Rainier during their honeymoon in 1956. As one of Mallorca’s most exquisite natural beaches, Cala Formentor allures tourists with its fine sands embraced by lush woods and the majestic Tramuntana mountains. Do keep in mind though, that during the summer months, the beach is a very popular destination, drawing large crowds of visitors.

Alcúdia

Elegant and captivating, Alcúdia’s old town is a labyrinth of stone-paved pedestrian streets enclosed by medieval walls. Climbing these walls rewards you with splendid views of the town’s characterful landscape. Immerse yourself in the markets on Tuesdays and Sundays, savor tapas, coffee, or ice cream, and marvel at the impressive neo-Gothic church of Sant Jaume.

Ciutat Romana de Pollentia

The ancient Roman city that lent its name to Pollença actually lies closer to Alcúdia. Today, you can explore the excavated ruins of this once-thriving city and visit the Monographic Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts unearthed at the site.

La Victòria peninsula

Venture beyond Alcúdia to the Victòria peninsula, where you’ll find interesting sights and beautiful beaches. Art enthusiasts should visit the Museu sa Bassa Blanca, boasting contemporary art and a stunning sculpture park and rose garden. For outdoor enthusiasts, the peninsula’s peaks and pine forests offer walking and cycling trails, leading to the 17th-century La Victòria hermitage with stupendous views of Pollença Bay.

From the picturesque towns of Pollença and Alcúdia to the scenic beauty of Cap de Formentor, these unmissable gems in the north of Mallorca promise an unforgettable experience for every traveler. To book a luxury holiday villa in Mallorca, click here.