Your Travel Companion to the Jewel of the North of Mallorca
Located 10km inland and home to around 16.5k residents, the municipality of Pollensa comprises Puerto Pollensa, Cala Sant Vicente and Formentor. A stunning collection of postcodes by anyone’s standard, but at the top of the charm scale it has to be the town of Pollensa itself.
Enjoy this Guide to Pollensa, a town that is home to mainly local Mallorcans, but also a fair few Brits, Germans and plenty of mainlanders, some who settled here generations ago.
Pollensa Old Town, or Pueblo, remains one of the island’s most cherished gems. With its historic charm in its pretty, windy cobbled streets, with the vibrant culture of all the local fiestas and customs, and with its stunning landscapes, this quaint town offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, Pollensa promises an unforgettable experience. True it is very “Spain”, but this little town is more than that – Pollensa has its own vibe going on and it is this magic of Pollensa that people fall in love with. And many return year after year.
Guide to Pollensa, The Essentials:
The Calvari Steps
One cannot speak of Pollensa without mentioning the iconic Calvari Steps. This striking staircase, consisting of 365 steps, leads to a chapel at the top, offering panoramic views of the town and its surroundings. The effort is rewarded not just with breathtaking vistas but also with a quiet moment away from the town’s lively streets. Next to the chapel is a tiny cafe that sells cold drinks and ice creams and there is usually a busker playing Spanish guitar for your final climb at the top.
The Plaza Major
At the heart of Pollensa lies the Plaza Major, a bustling square lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, and historical buildings. It’s the perfect spot to sample Mallorcan cuisine, or simply people-watch. On Sundays, the square transforms into a vibrant market where locals and visitors alike can find everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts, offering a taste of the island’s rich traditions and flavours.
At the top of the square is the beautiful “Mare de Déu dels Àngels” parish church. Built in the 18th century, the high vaulted roof with rose window and side chapel with intricate wood carvings and decoration throughout make this a must-see. It’s also very cool inside which can be a welcome break from the market day heat.
Your Walking Guide to Pollensa
Cultural Tours
If you are in Pollensa in spring/early summer or autumn, book yourself onto a guided tour of the town. Over a couple of hours a local guide will take you on a walk pointing out things you’d never have known before. From architecture to the Knight’s Templar, from the Dominicans to the Dalai Lama, they’re all part of Pollensa’s rich history and these guided tours are fascinating. See details and how to book in the What’s On page.
Puig de Maria
Whether you’re in a finca outside of town, or a townhouse in the middle of the pueblo, the Puig de Maria is always in view. This hill, located just outside the town, offers a moderately challenging hike that is rewarded with stunning views of Pollensa and of the bay. The sanctuary at the top provides a glimpse into the past, with its historic building now serving as a simple hostel (refugi). Currently, at the time of writing, management of the Refugi is to be confirmed, this means no cafe at the top but you can of course still walk there just take your own refreshments for your arrival. It’s an ideal spot for sunset or sunrise.
A Foodie’s Guide to Pollensa
Pollensa’s restaurant scene is as varied as its landscapes. From traditional Mallorcan restaurants serving their excellent value menu del dias with local specialities like frito Mallorquin or Arroz Brut to modern deli-style cafes offering brunch, to cool tapas bars. There’s something to satisfy every palate at any moment of the day.
Don’t miss the chance to try an ensaimada, a sweet, soft, snail-shaped pastry and a staple of Mallorcan cuisine, ideally with a cafe con leche in the square. In the corner of the square, along from Can Moixet – a Pollensa institution, is Can Butxaca. A family run, firmly established ice cream maker, the cafe is a great spot for lighter refreshment with ice creams of all flavours and the best granizada out there.
Food lovers cannot miss the Sunday market. Packed with artisan stalls for holiday-makers to buy their souvenirs and gifts, it is the food market that pulls the regular crowd. Fruit and veg from local growers dazzle with colour and olives, bread, flowers, dried fruit and nuts fill in the gaps. In winter it is quiet and friendly, in summer it’s hot and crowded; bars and restaurants are jam-packed. The atmosphere, often with live music performed on the streets, is what makes it so worth the visit. Just plan to arrive early (before 9am) so you can find your parking spot.
Fiesta Guide to Pollensa
Pollensa is renowned for its vibrant festivals and cultural events, which are deeply rooted in the town’s traditions. One of the highlights is the annual “La Patrona” or Moors and Christians fiesta, which starts the last week of July and climaxes on 2nd August with a huge mock battle, which commemorates the actual battle between the relentless invading Moorish pirates and the local Christians. It’s a spectacular display of local pride, featuring parades, and fireworks, providing visitors with a unique insight into the town’s history and community spirit.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Getting There: Pollensa is easily accessible by car or bus from Palma. The drive is about 45 minutes up the MA13.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the best weather, avoiding the peak summer crowds while still enjoying the warm Mediterranean climate.
Stay Local: Consider staying in one of the town’s boutique hotels or traditional fincas to fully immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Pollensa Town, with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offers a slice of real Mallorcan life. You can experience the countryside like the outdoor-loving locals do and enjoy the holiday buzz of the busy Plaza Major, you can shop for real Mallorcan products in stylish boutiques or on the food market stalls on a Sunday morning. Whatever you choose to do, you know that it will be authentically Pollensa.