© James Bennett
© SeeMallorca.com
© James Bennett
© James Bennett
© Jose Rains
© James Bennett
© James Bennett
© James Bennett
© Jose Rains
© SeeMallorca.com
© SeeMallorca.com
© Jose Rains
© Jose Rains
© Jose Rains
© Jose Rains
© SeeMallorca.com
© SeeMallorca.com
© SeeMallorca.com
© SeeMallorca.com
© SeeMallorca.com
© SeeMallorca.com
Attractive rural town in Mallorca, in the north-west of the island
At the eastern end of the Serra de Tramuntana, tucked between two hills, lies the ancient rural town of Pollença (also written Pollenca or Pollensa). An enchanting Mallorcan town packed with ancient blonde stone architecture, Pollenca doesn’t feel like many of the other towns which have surrendered to tourism. Although tourists have long been attracted here, Pollensa has learned to accept and adapt to tourism without losing its soul.
The town’s residents are primarily islanders, making it a popular retreat amongst those looking to escape the more touristy beach resorts in favour of a more cultural Mallorcan experience. Café culture is king here; if you want to join in, we recommend visiting on a Sunday morning when Plaça Major is filled with market stalls and the locals congregate after church to relax in the cafés. There are a few boutique hotels in the town while luxury retreats and large scale villas can be found in the lush countryside and hillsides near the town.
Pollença is a town rich in history, its many points of interest attract visitors from far and wide. Some of the highlights include an ancient Roman bridge or ‘Pont Romà’, the 18th century Mare de Deu dels Angels church with a famous rose window and the Convent de Sant Domingo. There are also wonderful ancient monasteries dotted around the surrounding countryside.
Pollenca's port, Port de Pollença lies a few kilometres to the north. It has glorious beaches and a further selection of restaurants and cafés to enjoy.
Although the majority of the buildings in Pollenca were built in the 17th and 18th centuries, this is a town rich in history dating back to medieval times.
In 123 BC, the Romans landed in Mallorca and set up base close to Alcúdia. Their settlement was named Pollentia, from which Pollenca later got its name. This was a time of peace on the island, until 440 AD when vandals caused destruction and those who survived the attack fled the island.
Pollenca, as we know it today, was founded in the late 12th century by the Arabs. After King Jaume I conquered Majorca (1229 to 1231), Pollenca was gifted to the Knights Templar. They began to build the church in the main square, Parròquia de la Mare de Déu del Àngels (Parish of Our Lady of the Angels), however due to a spat with the King of France during the 14th century the knights fled the island.
From this time onwards, there were continued attacks on this part of the island by pirates, as a consequence watchtowers - such as the Atalaya de Albercutx - were built along the coast. The most famous attack took place in 1550 when Joan Mas led a small band of locals armed only with sticks to fight off the Moorish bandits. This is celebrated with La Patrona Festival each August. The Jesuits arrived in Pollença and in 1697 constructed the iconic church, Monti Sion, situated close to the foot of the Calvari steps.
Until the early 1900s, Pollença was mostly an agricultural town, with little activity along its coast. Things began to change when artists were drawn to the area’s natural beauty, helping to put Port de Pollença on the map. A group of painters, both local and Catalan, played a big part in this creative movement. Tourism took off in the 1960s and now makes up most of the local economy. Even so, the town has kept its traditional charm, with quiet lanes, neat little squares and a well-kept, authentic feel.
Pollença town is filled with history. The Pont Romà on the edge of town is one of the oldest landmarks, once part of an ancient aqueduct, though the bridge seen today dates from the 15th century.
The main square, Plaça Major, is home to the 18th-century Mare de Deu dels Angels church with its remarkable rose window. Among the town's many other historic buildings is a former Jesuit convent which is now the town hall. From here you can climb the 365 cypress tree-lined steps to reach the Calvari church with its ancient wooden cross and views of Puig de Maria and to the Bay of Pollença and over the plains of Majorca. These steps are the scene of a moving procession each Good Friday when a figure of Christ is removed from a cross and carried down the steps by torchlight.
The Convent and Cloister of Sant Domingo is one of the town's defining features. Built between 1588 and 1616, the Baroque cloister, famous for its four arched corridors will take your breath away. It has been hosting Pollenca’s annual Classical Music Festival since 1962, and the convent hosts the wonderful Pollença Arts and Crafts Fair as well as the wine fair.
The Santuari del Puig de Maria is a 330m high hillock on which a Gothic-style fortified monastery sits. First occupied by nuns in 1371, it was abandoned for many years. It has now been restored and you can stay in simple rooms if tranquillity is what you seek. You can access it by following a tiny lane (cars not recommended) which goes off the main road from Pollenca to Palma.
The cloisters are also home to the Museum of Pollença containing the remains of prehistoric sculptures shaped like bulls, as well as a mandate (Tibetan sand painting) given by the Dalai Lama in 1990. It even houses a collection of contemporary art and works by the artist Atilio Boveri. Next to the convent lie the gardens of Joan March with its 17th century tower.
Artists and writers have been known to be fond of the area throughout history, and Pollenca is home to the Dionis Bennassar museum, located in a typical Mallorcan house and filled with the painter's works and personal belongings.
This seventeenth century house is where artist Dionis Bennassar lived for half his life. It is now home to the Dionis Bennàssar Foundation, which is a cultural foundation of private non-profit organization created to promote, publicize and defend the manifestations of the human spirit.
Nuns settled on Puig de Maria ('Mary's mountain') in 1371 and remained for several hundred years, refusing to leave even when the Bishop of Palma ordered them down for their own safety.
This traditional town square is located in the heart of Pollença and is the centre of the town's social and commercial life.
Pollenca itself doesn't have beaches, but the Port of Pollensa is one of the most exclusive ports in the area. Its long beaches are worth a day trip to at the very least if you're staying in Pollensa itself.
Easily accessible and popular with tourists and locals alike, this long stretch of coast line from Puerto Pollensa to Alcudia makes for a beautiful drive or cycle. Hugging the beachside all the way around the crescent shaped bay, the road presents fantastic views towards Cap Formentor, Cap Pinar and all the way out to sea.
Cala Sant Vincenc is a spot of real beauty in north Mallorca, an old fishing village arranged around various little cove beaches and stunning blue water. This cala is known in Castillian Spanish as Cala San Vincente and in Mallorquin as Cala Sant Vicenc.
Horseshoe-shaped Pollensa Bay, boasts several patches of golden shore, all with superb views and beautiful fine sand. The main beach is found just south of the harbour - Platja del Port de Pollensa; at nearly 1.5km long, it offers an impressive view of the Formentor Peninsular and surrounding Tramuntana mountains.
Wandering down the waterfront you have your choice of which little beach to stop at, some are more crowded than others and some are almost too small to fit a family on and any patch of sand that can fit them has sun loungers. All of the beaches can be easily accessed from the pedestrian walkway.
Situated at the end of a 40-minute hike north of Puerto Pollença, Cala Boquer (also known as Vall de Boquer or Boquer Valley) is a beautiful secluded rocky bay with clear, refreshing water and abundant sea life. A wonderful snorkellers paradise.
Take a coastal stroll or cycle to the little hidden gem Platya des Morer Vermell just north of Alcudia, with its white sand and calm waters perfect for snorkelling.
Pollenca has a good selection of restaurants within the town. You'll find plenty of places that make the ideal casual option offering good quality local and fusion tapas using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. Try a tasting menu if you like experimenting with new dishes. Paella is another famous dish that you can't really go wrong with if you're here.
If you fancy a break from Spanish cuisine, you'll find plenty of pizza and pasta on the local menus.
The reawakening of Mallorcan cuisine. Joan Marc Garcias and his team will captive all your senses with his essentially creative cuisine.
With outside and inside seating, Il Giardino has a fresh, Italian-inspired menu, and believes that each dish is best served with a glass of accompanying wine.
Boasting a traditional Spanish patio and a restaurant inside, La Braseria is the perfect eatery no matter the weather. The grill menu uses only the freshest ingredients and culinary secrets.
Featuring a luxurious outdoor terrace and a clean-cut, modern interior, La Placeta boasts exquisite risottos and paellas, perfect for any time of day.
In the heart of the historic town of Pollenca, not far from the museum, you’ll find Restaurante R3spira, serving Italian-inspired dishes to tourists and locals.
This restaurant offers some truly delightful homemade raviolis and pastas, with an authentic feel made by the owner, who originally hails from Sardinia. They also have fresh fish of the day, meats, Italian produce and delicious homemade desserts.
The historic town of Pollenca hosts some epic events relating to its history.
La Patrona is one of the town’s biggest festivals and usually takes place at the end of July and start of August. For a whole week, the town comes alive with celebrations and activities in honour of the Mare de Déu dels Àngels, with decorations filling the streets.
The week ends with a lively re-enactment of a battle between the Moors and the Christians. It marks the town’s victory over pirates who attacked during the night and early morning of the 30 and 31 May, 1550.
The Pollença Classical Music Festival has been a summer tradition since 1962, drawing world-class performers to the town each July and August. Over the years, it has welcomed celebrated names from orchestras, opera and beyond.
The Pollenca Wine Fair is organised by l’Associació Vi Primitiu de Pollenca and takes place at the Convent de Santo Domingo in the spring.
This year promises to be an unforgettable edition, featuring superb sailing conditions, friendly competition, and the debut of a cruising class for newcomers or those looking for a more relaxed experience on the water.
Llucmajor holds its annual harvest festival, with arts & crafts market, horses and dogs shows, live music and parties.
Since its launch in 2004, the Festival of Classical Music in Port de Sóller has become one of the outstanding events for the lovers of classical music in Mallorca.
For one weekend, the small town of Sant Joan in the centre of Mallorca honours one of the island's most traditional product, the botifarron or blood sausage.
Deep in the Tramuntana mountains lies the lovely village of Esporles. Every year, they host a sweet festival, full of local goodies for you to indulge on.
Get to know the best roads of the island with the exclusivity of having them closed to road traffic.
Pollenca is a sleepy rural town, perfect for exploring the quaint cobbled streets where you can get up close and personal with the magnificent architecture. It’s also the perfect base for hiking and cycling in the Serra de Tramuntana.
If a bit of retail therapy is as active as you like to get on holiday, in Pollenca there are a few boutiques and gift shops selling locally crafted goods from jewellery to ceramics, fabrics and interior decorations.
The market in Pollensa is celebrated every Sunday morning and sells fruit, vegetables, souvenirs and local goods.
Drinking wine is a thing to do, right? Well, take a trip to a bodega and sample some of Mallorca’s best wines along with some cheese and bread. You can also then buy your favourite wine at some reasonable prices.
Whether you prefer plunging into crystal-clear pools or climbing sun-drenched rock faces, there’s an adventure waiting in the island’s stunning Sierra de Tramuntana mountains.
Món d'Aventura is a Mallorcan company dedicated to active, imaginative and adventurous people of all ages who like outdoor pursuits and to discover adventure in Majorca.
Nine holes of golf, perfectly integrated into the beautiful local environment. Golf Pollenca offers panoramic views over the Tramuntana mountains, olive groves, the bays of Pollença and Alcudia and s'Albufereta reserve. By the end of the first round, the visitor will surely agree that challenge, variety, and harmony with nature are focal points around which the club's success is built.
The countryside surrounding Pollenca is well-liked by cycle enthusiasts. From mountain to coastal routes, there is a great variety of terrain that will suit almost every level of cyclist.
The designated cycle path to the south of Port de Pollença is a gentle flat route around the bay suitable for the whole family.
Otherwise, head into the mountains for the thigh-busting climbs that attract Olympic-level athletes in the springtime. Whichever route you take, you can expect great views! If you don’t fancy lugging your bike to the island, then there are plenty of places to rent a bike.
An easy ride that is ideal for hobby cyclists who have hired a bike for the day or for a road cyclist wanting to get off the busy main roads. Not exactly a shortcut but this ride takes you from Puerto Pollenca to Pollensa via the more quiet and scenic parts of North Majorca.
An intermediate hill climb for those who want to stretch their legs on the bike and explore the North of the Island.
Beginner (or intermediate if you want to ride it at pace!) cycle route that uses the purpose built paths around the Alcudia area.
An intermediate route for those used to climbing steeper sections of road on a bike, with stunning views of the coastline.
An easy ride if you are used to road biking and at 44km this route could be a good challenge for a beginner!
An easy route more suited to someone with a bit of road cycling experience due to the nature of the hills and busy roads.
Pollenca is hugely popular with walkers thanks to its marvellous location in the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.
Coastal walks are also popular in this area, particularly up towards Cap de Formentor on the northwestern coast of Mallorca.
Pollenca is located in the north-west of Mallorca. Castle del Rei is on a large private estate and you have to apply for permission at the Town Hall in Pollenca to get access.
The name Pollença comes from the Roman settlement of 'Pollentia, the excavated remains of which lie several kilometers away, at the modern municipality of Alcudia. It was founded in by the Catalans in the 13th century some 6km from the coast in an effort to avoid pirate attacks.
The Puig de Maria sits overlooking the town of Pollensa in the north-east of the island of Mallorca.
A walk around the Puig de Santuiri - a peaceful and secluded natural park perfect for a hike or a picnic with the whole family.
The Puig de Maria, more formally known as ‘Santuari de la Mare de Déu del Puig’ is a small hill that overlooks the town of Pollenca in the North of Mallorca.
Mallorca is home to a rich and diverse plant and animal life and has long been a location popular with birdwatchers, the north of Mallorca boasts several large wetland areas such as the S’Albufera Nature Park and the slightly smaller Albufereta, both of which areas attract birdwatchers all year round to view their ornithological offerings.
Kite surfing lessons and equipment rental, plus stand up paddle lessons, rental and guided excursions.
This activity company is based in the Port of Pollensa and offers various coastline activities that including SUP (Stand Up Paddle Boarding), Snorkelling and Coasteering.
Catamarans are the Formula 1 of sailing. Built for speed you'll get a real thrill from racing the waves.
This stylish contemporary stone villa overlooks the traditional town of Pollensa to the mountains beyond.
Villa Ciutada is located in Pollensa, Mallorca. This vacation rental property is air-conditioned and sleeps up to 6 people with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms along with private swimming pool.
Small, cosy villa with swimming pool and gardens close to the main road that leads from the old town of Pollensa to Puerto Pollensa.
Located in the highly sought-after area of La Font, at the foot of the stunning UNESCO Tramuntana mountains in Pollensa, Villa Esquina is just a 15-minute walk from the beautiful historic town of Pollenca and a 10-minute drive from the Port of Pollenca and surrounding beaches, making it ideal for large families or two families with children. This stunning family holiday home has 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 balconies with amazing views of the surrounding area and a large heated saltwater pool (15 metres long).
Welcome to Can Felip, a charming holiday townhouse in Pollença, nestled in the heart of picturesque Mallorca. This cozy Majorcan family home, built in 1875, has been recently renovated to combine its historic charm with modern comforts.
Villa Gotmar is in a great central location, the beach and amenities of Puerto Pollensa are all only 15 minutes' walk away. This popular and lively resort has a huge choice of contemporary bistros, cafes and gift shops all overlooking its huge sandy beach and marina. Within ten minutes of the house, you can be browsing the craft shops in Pollensa’s pretty cobbled streets, sipping coffee at a table in the main square or climbing the 365 steps to the Calvari church for its magnificent views.
If you're looking for short-term rental accommodation there’s a good mix of rustic finca-style places, together with some high-end, 21st century modern design villas, and fincas are a good choice for large groups or families. Within the town you'll find rustic townhouses and apartments, offering the option to cook in or dine out, ideal for a comfortable holiday.
This stylish villa is quite rustic in appearance and is set in lovely gardens with its own fenced pool.
Villa Can Barbas is ideally located just half a kilometre from the centre of Puerto Pollensa in the popular residential complex of Gotmar.
Located in the highly sought-after area of La Font, at the foot of the stunning UNESCO Tramuntana mountains in Pollensa, Villa Esquina is just a 15-minute walk from the beautiful historic town of Pollenca and a 10-minute drive from the Port of Pollenca and surrounding beaches, making it ideal for large families or two families with children. This stunning family holiday home has 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 balconies with amazing views of the surrounding area and a large heated saltwater pool (15 metres long).
The superbly renovated Villa Perdiu Vell Petit, located in a highly desirable and picturesque area close to the old town of Pollensa, is a special property not to be missed. Stone-built and attractively finished, the villa has extensive outdoor areas together with welcoming interiors for a truly Mallorcan holiday. With its perfect countryside location just 3km away from Pollensa, 3 air-conditioned bedrooms and modern amenities, this villa is set to impress.
Welcome to Can Felip, a charming holiday townhouse in Pollença, nestled in the heart of picturesque Mallorca. This cozy Majorcan family home, built in 1875, has been recently renovated to combine its historic charm with modern comforts.
Retreat to the exquisite Villa La Font 64, a stunning three-bedroom Mallorcan villa located in the leafy and exclusive La Font suburb of Pollensa. Positioned in one of the most sought-after residential areas in La Font, this villa is just a stone's throw away from the historic Pollensa old town.
Pollenca has a good mix of accommodation options on offer, most of which will allow you to embrace the traditional Mallorcan charm.
Within the town, there are a few middle of the range boutique-style hotels at reasonable prices.
There are just a handful of boutique hotels within the town centre, ideal for those who want the sights and attractions of Pollenca on their doorstep. You can expect each room to have its own unique modern décor and all the amenities you might need in your room, plus rustic blonde stone and exposed beams. At the top end you can expect all the facilities one could possibly want for with full spa, swimming pools, tennis courts and a top-notch restaurant.
The countryside surrounding the town is where you will find luxury rural retreats offering all of the above and more without the hubub of being in town.
Whether you’re looking for modern luxury, traditional elegance, or a rural escape, the hotel scene has something for every taste and occasion.
This wonderful beach-front hotel has a maritime theme with its name 'Goleta' meaning schooner in Catalan.
Situated in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, its location between sea and mountains offers wonderful views in every direction.
A cosy hotel, located in the very centre of Pollença - a village well known by artists all over the world. This charming 17th-century villa has been restored and refurbished into a small, family-run hotel.
This hotel is modelled on the stylish city boutique hotels, offering a haven of peace and tranquility in elegant interiors with all the hotel services and amenities necessary to make your stay as easy and hassle free as possible.
Furnished with antique Mallorcan furniture and with art and sculptures adorning the walls and communal spaces, this hotel gives off an air of grandure, yet remains cosy and welcoming.
Son Siurana is a beautifully refurbished farmhouse that is close to the sandy beaches of Alcudia and Pollensa. Its location on the slope of a hill dominates the landscape and has wonderful views over the surrounding countryside.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Pollensa is a 45 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
There are no direct buses from the airport.
Experience luxury and convenience with this company. Arrive at your yacht charter, sunset tour or boat trip in unparalleled style in a Rolls Royce Ghost.
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
This transfer company offers cheap and reliable Airport Transfers to all destinations in Mallorca with official vehicles and professional drivers.
Multilingual company offering transfers from the airport to your destination.
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
Taxi PMI is the Association of Taxi Drivers of Palma de Mallorca, who provide visitors with an efficient and reliable airport transfer service, whilst also eliminating the need to stand in a queue and wait for the next available taxi.
Welcome to an exclusive estate situated in the heart of rural Pollensa. This property offers impressive vineyards and a design that combines traditional rustic charm with elegant modern touches.
Welcome to this charming estate in the countryside near Pollença Pueblo! This unique property consists of two adjoining estates, offering a perfect combination of tranquillity in the Mallorcan countryside and proximity to all the amenities of Pollença Pueblo, just a five-minute drive away. Additionally, it is only fifteen minutes from the spectacular beaches of Puerto Pollença, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy island life.
Introducing this spectacular house in the charming village of Pollensa, designed with exquisite taste and utmost practicality and functionality.
With 6 bedrooms this house offers style and spacious living in abundance. The main house has 4 big bedrooms all with air-conditioning.
This townhouse for sale in Pollensa is located in a tranquil street with little traffic, just a short walk from the centre where we find many restaurants and places of interest.
Charming townhouse with vacation rental license for sale.
Find out all about what is happening in Mallorca and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience on the island.
See allLatest News & ReviewsThe island hosts all sorts of events, including agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, live music and DJs in the summer, religious fiestas and international sporting events. Some of the most popular are the Mallorca 312 cycling race in April, the Copa del Rey sailing regatta in July and the Moors vs Christians mock battle in September.
See allUpcoming Events
