PUERTO de POLLENSA
Area: Majorca
Country: Spain


Location:
Near NE tip of island at Cape Formentor (12 miles). 38 miles NE of Palma and airport. 3º miles NE of Pollensa. 5­ miles NW of old town of Alcudia.

Telephone code from UK:
34

Position:
Facing S across wide Bay of Pollensa, on broad coastal plain backed by mountains.

Description:
Stretching for around two miles along the edge of a crescent-shaped bay, Puerto de Pollensa is an established resort with several hotels dating back to pre-war years and a port which has succeeded in keeping much of its character. The generally low-rise town also has the considerable benefit of a 1»-mile seafront promenade, much of it pedestrianised, attractively lined with palms and pines and offering good views across the bay to the rugged headlands. The little square set back from the marina has been paved, planted and equipped with old-fashioned lamps and there are numerous pedestrianised lanes full of bars and restaurants _ all of which contributes to the resort's relaxed, pleasant atmosphere.

Suitability:
A firm favourite with more mature visitors, although all ages will appreciate finer points of scenery, good beaches and agreeable ambience. Ideal family resort; on the quiet side but not without nightlife.

Accommodation:
Near-equal mix of apartments and hotels, most of which fall into mid-market, 3-star range. Many have distinctive character of their own, so breadth of choice is quite wide. Some apartments and hotels situated along main road and pedestrianised section of promenade.

Shopping:
Small selection of shops along promenade, concentrated near marina and extending to streets behind. Good shops for leather, footwear and Lladro porcelain plus usual seaside souvenirs and selection of basic food stores. Wednesday market on the square; Sunday market in old town of Pollensa.

Beach:
Long, narrow strip of fine, white sand, artificially enlarged near marina to create wider beach. Sea is usually calm, sheltered by headlands and sand slopes gradually into clear water. Sun loungers and sunshades for hire although they are expensive.

Entertainments:
Daytime: boat trips, pedallo hire, walking tours, horse riding, bike rental, diving and windsurfing; golf course a few miles inland. Nightlife: varied choice of bars, some with live music; one disco.

Eating:
Good choice along seafront and in streets behind; besides varied local fare, there are Chinese, German and Italian options.

Public-transport:
Service to Alcudia and Ca'n Picafort every 15 minutes; regular services to Palma, Cala San Vincente, Formentor and Soller. Main bus stop at marina, with further pick-up points along Alcudia road. Taxis available. Car and moped rental, although beware _ roads have deep potholes and are not particularly well maintained.

Local-excursions:
Half day: Cape Formentor; old town of Pollensa; Roman remains and timeworn streets of Alcudia; bustling modern resort and water park at Puerto de Alcudia. Full day: scenic drive to Lluc monastery; Soller with scenic tram ride to Puerto de Soller; little towns of Deya and Valldemosa; Thursday market at Inca. Palma, Caves of Drach and further destinations can also be covered in a long day.