August Recommends: Things to do in Pollença

The town radiates typical Balearic charm and you can expect to see narrow streets, cobbled roads, and sandstone houses - all in perfectly matching blonde shades with green and blue shutters. The lifestyle in Pollença is so admirable, as soon as you step out you will see the locals with smiles on their faces as they stroll around the town.

The area has long-standing traditions and has so many historical stories rooted in its history. The name of the town, Pollença is a Catalan name, the Spanish version is Pollensa and you can see both spellings used locally. Despite its small size, Pollença offers plenty of things to do and has a rich historical and cultural heritage hence it attracts visitors from far and wide.

Historical attractions

One of the most visited places in Pollença is the Roman Bridge (Pont Romà), it’s one of the most preserved pieces of evidence of Roman dominance on Mallorca that you can explore.

Other famous landmarks are the Mare de Deu dels Angels church with a famous rose window and the Convent de Sant Domingo. You can also find some wonderful ancient monasteries dotted around the surrounding countryside.

If you’ve carried out your own research before arriving in  Pollença, you would’ve most likely read about Cap de Formentor, also known as the ‘meeting point of the winds’. This northernmost tip of the island has a historic Formentor Lighthouse that was opened in 1863 and remains active today. The road that leads to the lighthouse is simply amazing. Enjoy the endless views over the cliffs, and sandy beaches surrounded by blue Balearic waters.

Lifestyle

Mallorquin love coffee and we recommend visiting Plaça Major on Sunday mornings, it’s filled with market stalls, local cuisine and delicacies and the locals love to come together here after church on Sundays. This is an authentic experience of the relaxed local lifestyle.

Only a short drive to the north, you will find the stunning Port de Pollença (also known as Puerto Pollensa). This relaxed and friendly coastal village is known for inspiring Agatha Christie to write a novel. Backed by mountains, you will be fascinated by the beauty of this town - there is no high-rise building in sight due to the strict building regulations in the area - take all the magnificent mountain views in. This idyllic town used to be a simple fishing port so expect to eat delicious seafood in the laid-back atmosphere.

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Restaurants

Pollença is all about the local lifestyle. The most luxurious restaurants won’t be found in Pollença but a plethora of local restaurants with exceptional food.

Restaurant Celler el Molí - a stone's throw away from the river Torrent de la Vall d’en Marc - highly regarded by the locals, delicious Mediterranean food.

Pastelería Can Xim - the perfect spot if you’re after a quick lunchtime pastry - sweet or savoury, all homemade.

Restaurante Grill Mares - authentic Balearic cuisine with friendly service, generous portions and fresh local ingredients. Beautifully interior designed to the local standard.

Restaurante M - Excellent food with great prices, argued as the best restaurant in Pollença! The gazpacho with strawberries and truffle risotto are a must-try.

Port de Pollença has a surprisingly diverse selection of restaurants for its small size.

Restaurante Bellaverde - a fully vegetarian and vegan restaurant, an impressive menu from curries to burgers and salads - all full of fresh flavour. Atmospheric courtyard setting with a list of local wines.

Zarzales Restaurant - Hidden away from the main road, this family-run restaurant is full of charm and delicious flavours. Great for tapas, wine or just for a coffee.

Little Italy Puesto Pollensa - Perhaps the best pizza in town with a magnificent seaview. Make sure to book beforehand to get a table. A big plus for their gluten-free pizzas.

‍Abbaco - One of the newest restaurants in the port - modern and fresh flavours. Beautiful seaview from the beach-facing terrace. They also offer a vegan tasting menu.

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Activities

This mountainous island is a paradise for hikers at all levels - the Pollença area has 23 picturesque trails. It is one of the best ways to explore the island and see its true Balearic beauty.

Easy hikes and walks:

Santuari Puig de Maria – Blick auf Pollenca Loop from Pollença - 2.7km

1. Ruta de Pedra en Sec - Variant al Puig de Maria - 5.1km
2. Cala Murta - 4.7km
3. Pollença - l'Assarell 13.4km

Moderate hikes:

1. Boquer Valley - 5.1km
2. Puig de l’Aguila - 5.8km
3. Cala Sant Vicenç - 4.7km

Advanced hikes:

1. La Mola - Puig de l’Aguila - 7.1km
2. Lluc - 18.5km

We also recommend trekking in the scenic Torrent de Pareis - it’s the most well-known walk in Mallorca. The route follows a magnificent 5km canyon, starting from the Lluc area through Serra De Tramuntana mountains all the way to the crystal clear blue waters in the bay of Sa Calobra.

Another popular walk near Pollença is the Pine Walk route, which goes round the stunning coastline of Port de Pollença. Enjoy this relaxing walk full of sunshine, beautiful quiet beaches and waterfront.

Port de Pollença is a great spot for watersports. Spend a day out and head out for a diving trip to see sea caves in the turquoise water, book a boat trip with your family to take in the beautiful views or head out paddle boarding. For more adventurous visitors, Port de Pollença is a great spot for cliff jumping and windsurfing.

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