An Insider’s Guide to Pollença, Mallorca

Shop

Pollença Market

Each Sunday, the centre of Pollença comes alive with over 300 market stalls – a cornucopia of regional foods, crafts, textiles and everything in between. Shop like a local while sampling seasonal fruits, regional cheeses, olives, oils and spices – many grown and produced in the fertile fields surrounding Pollença. Then find a table at one of the many shaded al fresco dining spots off the main square, and relax into a late-afternoon lunch.

‍

Teixits Vicens

Take a piece of Pollença home with you – Vicens’ traditional, handmade Mallorcan ‘Cloth of Tongues’. Family-run Teixits Vicens, artisan textile and craft workshop since 1854, preserves and reimagines the rich decorative heritage entwined in Balearic culture. Book a guided workshop tour and truly immerse yourself in Mallorca’s storied artistry.

‍

Rocaia

Curated by Pollença local Cati Bennàssar, Rocaia is home to a considered collection of effortless and functional apparel, gifts and homewares. Run by the same family for twenty years, the boutique spotlights local, fair trade and sustainable brands and designers from the region. Peruse simple, organic separates and zero-waste small goods – but be sure to save enough room in your suitcase.

‍

La Coquette

Tucked away on a sleepy side street near the Santa Maria de Pollença, La Coquette is a tempting treasure trove of women’s clothing, footwear and take-home trinkets. The boutique owner champions a sunkissed Spanish aesthetic, with traditional textiles, prints and embroideries abundant on the rails and tables.

‍

See & Do

Relaxation

Renowned for its beaches, Mallorca is a popular destination for those seeking a rejuvenating escape. As the island’s most iconic bays can be crowded, August recommends visiting the more secluded coves via a day spent on the water.

‍

Discover even the most remote of bays with Blauxell Boat Rental – well-priced service in the heart of Pollença. Choose from a full or half-day cruise with the whole family in tow, and enjoy drinks, refreshments and the very best of the island accompanied by an expert guide.

‍

For a tranquil day trip, head to the shores of Soller’s Caleta de Frares at dusk to experience one of the finest sunsets on the isle.

‍

Adventure

For some, a trip to Mallorca is all about adventure – spending days exploring every corner of the island before returning to the comfort of home. For avid cyclists, the 32 km Puerto Pollença - La Victòria route takes in a curve of coastline between Pollença’s picturesque port and the rugged peninsular of La Victòria – with breathtaking views along its entirety.

‍

For those who prefer on-foot exploration the Ruta de Pedra en Sec - Variant al Puig de Maria traverses Serra de Tramuntana’s arid, otherworldly landscape – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover ancient relics, historic architecture and expansive views over the Mediterranean Sea. Why not take a traditional Mallorcan picnic and spend the entire day immersed in the island’s captivating natural beauty?

‍

Dine

Pinseria Ocho -1907

Part of the Pollençian fabric since 1907, Pinseria Ocho spills over the picturesque terraces of family-run Hotel Juma onto Pollença’s main square. Owned and lovingly renovated by the Cifre Ochogavia for over two centuries, Pinseria Ocho delights with locally caught mussels and Cajun-spiced jumbo prawns. The star of the menu, however, is the pinsas – cloud-like pizzas made from sourdough.

‍

La Placeta

In the centre of Pollença old town, locals and visitors alike convene at La Placeta to indulge in some of the island’s most delectable paella, served straight to the table from the pan. Other while other standout dishes include salt-baked fish and steaks grilled over fire for a distinctly Mediterranean flavour.

‍

Stay Restaurant

Bright, contemporary interiors meet sweeping seascapes at Stay Restaurant – commanding one of the best views of Port de Pollença. A mainstay of Pollença’s gastronomy scene since 1989, Stay’s three-course lunch and dinner menus celebrate Mallorca’s vibrant fare. The real draw, however, is the tapas. From luxurious lobster caldereta to sepia a la marinera – squid, ‘seaman style’ – sink into conversation over a dish or two, or three. Or sit back and indulge in a vista-induced daydream.

‍

Abbaco Restaurant

After a few days of holiday indulgence, Abbaco Restaurant offers a much needed nutrient dose in a nature-inspired space. Vibrant bowls of salad accompany fresh sashimi, while the traditional dish, paella, is served with a contemporary, colourful twist. Leave feeling satisfied and nourished – the perfect spot for a light weekend lunch.

‍

La Trencadora

Set away from the bustle of Pollenca’s main square, La Trencadora is beloved by locals for its insouciant atmosphere and simple Italian-focused fare. The melt-in-the-mouth lamb shank is divine, as is the fresh fungi pizza, and a good selection of local wines complements the delectable repertoire of dishes. Spend a romantic lunch or dinner immersed in the luscious surrounds of the leafy courtyard.

‍

La Mar Dolça

Set on a pretty Pollença crossroad and frequented by cyclists riding Mallorca’s undulating trails, La Mar Dolça crafts artisanal coffee and unctuous patisseries with an unexpected Argentinian twist. The fresh-baked croissants – oozing with butter – and moist carrot cake pair perfectly with the daily decoctions of coffee. For those who want to savour a true regional delicacy, though, the Mallorcan almond cake is a must.

‍

Pack

Packing for a Mallorcan escape means mixing practicality with style. Put your swimsuit in first and make sure it accompanies you everywhere, so you’re always prepared for an impromptu dip. Sunscreen is another must, alongside flip-flops for sandy strolls and a cap to offer some much needed shade from the Balearic sun. A chic sarong takes you from day to night, while a Spanish phrasebook comes in handy for conversing with ease.

‍

‍‍