Pollenca
A town of some 10,000 residents nestled in the foothills of the tramuntana mountain range in Northern Mallorca, about 7km inland from the coastal town of Puerto Pollensa. The picture-perfect historic centre features a number of café lined squares linked by quaint cobbled streets and traditional stone houses.
Pollensa is not just a tourist destination, but a vibrant town inhabited mostly by Mallorcans but with quite a large ex-pat community including a fair few Brits, Germans and mainland Spaniards. Overall Pollensa exudes a relaxed and affluent atmosphere with an emphasis on quality.
Everything you need to know about Pollenca
Pollensa has a rich history that dates back to Roman times, when the original settlement of Pollentia was located at nearby Alcúdia. The town was later influenced by Moorish rule before its Christian reconquest in 1229 under King James1 who granted it to the Knights Templar. You can still visit the original Roman bridge to the west of the town.
Pollensa Town, or Pueblo, remains one of the island’s most cherished gems with its charming historic cobbled streets, vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural landscapes; whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, Pollensa promises an unforgettable experience. The town is home to many cafes, restaurants and traditional bars, but doesn’t really cater to late night revellers.
Who visits Pollensa? Pollensa attracts a more mature, affluent cohort of visitors than some other areas of Mallorca, predominantly from the UK, Germany, France and Scandinavia with many returning year after year.
Cami Vell de Pollensa – an easy going stroll into the countryside along the valley starting near the pont roma which can be extended to climb up to Lluc (this part is quite challenging)
Puig de Maria – a more challenging uphill hike to the sanctuary at the top of the “Puig de Maria”
Puig de Santuiri trail – a short, easy to moderate route just north of the town, leading to panoramic views
Cala Bóquer via the Boquer Valley – the walk is moderately demanding but well within reach for regular walkers, valued as much for its sense of space and solitude as for the simplicity of its natural setting.
Calvari steps – climb all 365 steps to get a breathtaking panoramic view of Pollenca, a step for each day of the year.
Conservation Foundation (BVCF) were responsible for the recovery of Black Vulture across Mallorca and are now looking to showcase and educate the public on Black and Griffon Vulture protection in Mallorca in a safe and controlled environment, with Ariant being one off the best places in Mallorca to see Vultures along with a whole range of other bird species. Be guided by and hear direct from the teams involved in the Black Vultures recovery and who manage Ariant as they guide you around the reserve as you watch wild vultures on the wing, in one of the most pristine and beautiful landscapes on the island.
Places are limited for each session, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.
To book click here
Must see in Pollenca
Calvari steps and chapel
Rising above the town on a steady sequence of stone steps, the Calvari leads to a small 18th-century chapel and one of Pollença’s most recognisable viewpoints. More than a lookout, it remains part of the town’s religious and cultural life, particularly during Holy Week, when the steps become the setting for long-established local processions.
Mare de deu dels angels
Dominating the Plaça Major, the parish church of Mare de Déu dels Àngels has shaped the civic and social life of Pollença since the 18th century. Built on the site of an earlier temple, its restrained exterior and spacious interior reflect the town’s long-standing religious traditions and its role as a regional centre rather than a resort destination.
Stroll the charming cobbled streets
Narrow stone streets wind outward from the Plaça Major, forming a townscape shaped more by daily life than by design. Largely unchanged in character, these streets reveal small squares, historic façades and the unhurried rhythm that defines Pollença beyond its landmarks.
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.
The restaurants surrounding the Plaça Major reflect Pollença’s quietly evolving dining scene, where long-established names like Can Moixet, Onze and Club Pollença sit comfortably alongside newer, more contemporary openings.
Whilst it is wonderful to enjoy the atmospheric hustle and bustle of the main square, in recent years many of the more interesting and enterprising restaurants have begun to open in the surrounding streets. Quality offerings such as Can Mir, Respira and Urban Bites signal a broader, more outward-looking approach to food that still fits the town’s unhurried rhythm.
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.
If you’re looking for a more genuine Mallorquin experience then you need only walk afew hundred metres away to discover “old school” bars such as La Goretta, La Trobada or Bar Mercat
Pollença offers a lovely mix of charming guesthouses, boutique hotels, and self-catering villas perfect for families, couples, or groups. From traditional fincas and rustic villas nestled in olive groves to elegant town centre stays, this area suits all travel styles. Pollenca does not boast an extensive list of hotels like other locations but here are a few good suggestions:
SON BRULL
A sanctuary of relaxed luxury, the 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana.
CAN AULI
A nature retreat in Pollença, where craftsmanship and local art cultivate the soul. Every detail carefully cultivated to meet your needs.
ST JORDI
A family-run boutique hotel in the heart of the historic town of Pollenca. Each room decorated with the classic Mallorquin taste.
Didn’t find the perfect match? Check out some other options…
Mallorca has a long tradition of artisan crafted goods including items made from olive wood, lace, cultured pearl jewellery, leather goods, woven baskets, shoes, ceramics, glassware and textiles. Although many of the more traditional items are now only really produced as souvenirs, some crafts continue to go from strength to strength.
Every Sunday, Pollenca hosts a beautiful market throughout all of the streets. Offering local produce, souvenirs, handmade gifts and many more delights. Many of the local cafes and restaurants booming with the smell of fresh pastries and coffee, an idilic way. to finish the week.
The market usually starts at 9am but be sure to get there sharply to get a parking space. Below is a few of the most notable local products to keep and eye out for.
Visit A Vineyard
Although better known for its mountains than its vines, the land around Pollença supports a small but established wine culture shaped by inland soils and a cooler northern climate. Vineyards such as Can Vidalet and Can Axartell reflect a measured approach to winemaking, where landscape, scale and process take precedence over volume. Their presence adds another layer to Pollença’s agricultural identity, rooted in place rather than production.
A Scenic Drive Through The Mountains
The road from Pollença into the Serra de Tramuntana winds steadily through pine forest and limestone ridges, offering a slower way to experience the northern landscape. Passing high ground and open viewpoints, the route towards Lluc Monastery reveals long views across valleys and peaks, with the monastery itself marking both a destination and a natural pause in the journey. More than a drive, it reflects the enduring relationship between road, landscape and settlement in this part of Mallorca.
Golf around Pollença is shaped as much by setting as by the game itself. Courses such as Pollenca Golf and Alcanada Golf Club, set between coastline and open landscape, offer a measured pace and long views rather than spectacle. Within easy reach of the town, a day on the course sits comfortably alongside Pollença’s quieter rhythm, balancing activity with time spent outdoors.
Pollenca is easily accessible by car from Palma De Mallorca International airport. There is a good quality motorway for most of the route and the drive will take about 45 minutes up the MA13. Alternatively take the bus from Central Palma which takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can catch a ferry to Alcudia from other Balearic Islands, Barcelona or Toulon in France, and then take a bus, taxi or hire a car.
Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to all the commonly asked questions about Pollenca.
What is Pollenca known for?
Pollenca is known for its artistic and cultural heritage, and dramatic mountain settings. It is also famous for the Calvari Steps, traditional festivals, and its long association with artists, writers, and musicians.
What is the difference between Pollenca and Port Pollenca?
How long should you stay in Pollenca?
Most visitors stay in Pollenca for 2 to 4 days, which allows time to explore the town itself and visit nearby beaches, mountains, and villages. Pollenca also works well as a longer base for travelers who enjoy slow travel or outdoor activities. Pollenca also hosts a number of great restaurants to work your way through!
When is the best time of year to visit Pollenca?
The best time to visit Pollenca is April to June and September to October, when the weather is warm, the landscape is green, and crowds are lower. Summer (July and August) is hotter and busier, while winter is quieter and cooler, appealing to walkers and cyclists.
What is Pollenca like compared to other Mallorca towns?
What beaches are closest to Pollenca?
Pollenca is nestled nicely in the northen peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana, meaning there is a great versatility in nearby beaches. A 10 minute drive away you have Cala Sant Vicenç, which offers 3 different beaches, 1 sandy, 1 rocky and 1 somewhere imbetween the two. Of course you then have Puerto Pollenca with long stretches of sandy beachfront, tranquil water and great nearby ammenities. A little more of a drive away there is also Playa de Formentor which provides a sandy beach surrounded by pine tree’s providing dappled shade.
There are of course a few secret beaches for the more adventurous.