The former fishing villages Portixol and Molinar, like many neighbourhoods on the outskirts of Palma, have experienced a bit of a renaissance in recent years. They have transformed from quiet fishing villages into some of the trendiest areas in the south-west of Mallorca. Their main attractions include a long stretch of beach, a beautiful promenade and a boho vibe. That’s before we even get started on the great selection of restaurants, bars and hotels servicing the area!
Portixol
Portixol, together with Molinar, are trendy suburbs of Palma
Portixol
Portixol, just outside Palma, has gone from up-and-coming to genuinely cool. Head to the seafront where old fishermen’s cottages have become stylish homes worth millions. Along the same promenade, you’ll find modern bars, cafes and restaurants that draw people from all over. Only a couple of kilometres from Palma’s cathedral, Portixol offers a peaceful escape from the city. It’s an easy walk or cycle to the old town along a traffic-free path with stunning sea views.
Molinar
Moving further east toward the airport, Portixol and Molinar meet and there is no sign to say where one ends and the other starts. Molinar has now been flagged as “up-and-coming” area and is reaping the rewards of its recent revamp, as we see property prices rise and new restaurants creeping in.
Portixol and Molinar don’t have a real town centre, as the main draw is the seafront. Along Carrer Llucmajor, just back from the shore, you’ll find a supermarket, a few shops and some cafés. Thanks to the nearby motorway and a local one-way system, traffic is minimal. Most people walk, cycle or skate along the promenade, where plenty of cafés and bars offer a relaxing spot to take in the views.
The area has seen an influx of wealthy expats, especially British, Swedish and German, though many full-time residents remain Mallorcan. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, with traditional buildings lovingly restored. People of all ages enjoy the promenade, whether strolling, sitting in seafront cafes or dining outdoors.
Events in Es Molinar
The Nit del Foc, celebrated in June, is one of the biggest nights of the year in Portixol and Molinar. The beach is beautifully lit by candles and tea lights, and people bring big picnics to enjoy the midsummer evening.
Events in Es Molinar
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Dragon Winter Series
The Mediterranean Cup of the Dragon Class
A regatta circuit in which top national and international sailors compete, Puerto Portals has become the port with the largest fleet of Dragons in Spain and a benchmark on the international circuit.
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La Mostra Calvia Tardor - Calvia Food Show
Enjoy special menus in Calvià from Illetas to Peguera
La Mostra Calvià Tardor is Calvià's annual autumn food festival, organised by the Fundació Calvià 365 and celebrated across four consecutive weekends each October and November. Around 45 restaurants take part each year, offering specially curated set menus.
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Pianino: Chopin's Classical Music Festival
A classical journey in Chopin’s cell in the beautiful historic town of Valldemossa
Set within the very cell where Frédéric Chopin and George Sand stayed during the winter of 1838–1839, this festival offers a rare blend of history, heritage, and high-level performance.
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Sankt Martin Children's Fair at Puerto Portals
Traditional Central European party for children
Countries like Austria, the Netherlands, Poland or Germany celebrate the Sankt Martin every year, a festivity when children light up the streets at night with paper lanterns in search of Saint Martin, the soldier.
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Inca Agricultural Fair - Fires d'Inca
Autumn fairs held on three consecutive weekends
The Fires d'Inca is one of Mallorca's largest autumn fair seasons, running across consecutive weekends in late October and early November. The season builds towards the island's biggest annual fair, the Dijous Bo.
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Fira del Vi Novell - New Wine Fair, Santa Maria del Cami
Includes tours and tastings from the wineries of the area
The town of Santa Maria del Cami dedicates a few days to celebrate the arrival of the new wine, with the main big party to be held on the 28th November 2024.
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Beaches in Es Molinar
The beaches in and around Portixol and Molinar have not been massively commercialised to tourists like many others on the south-west coast which means that these neighbourhoods retain much of their traditional charm. On fiestas and bank holidays, you even get to see some pretty special Spanish parties taking place here, where large families and friends gather with their picnics.
Beaches in Mallorca
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Portixol Beach 
Portixol Beach
Charming shingle and sand beach on the outskirts of Palma
Portixol is found just to the east of Palma's cathedral and is home to a little bay within which a little sand and shingle beach known as D'es Portitxolet Beach resides. The water is generally calm here due to the sheltered nature of the bay.
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Palma City Beach (Can Pere Antoni) 
Palma City Beach (Can Pere Antoni)
Golden sandy beach, the closest beach to Palma
The closest beach to Palma is at Ca'n Pere Antoni. This stretch of golden sandy beach starts just beyond the cathedral. A promenade and cycle path runs along its length but behind these lies the main road that takes you to Palma airport.
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Ciudad Jardin Beach 
Ciudad Jardin Beach
Friendly ‘Blue Flag’ beach that's located in the Bay of Palma
The small resort town of Ciudad Jardin lies around five kilometres east of Palma. Its beach, also commonly referred to as ‘Ciutat Jardi’, lies alongside a quiet promenade lined with palm trees, offering a huge variety of different styled bars and restaurants.
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Cala Major Beach 
Cala Major Beach
Idyllic but lively sandy beach featuring stunning turquoise waters
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
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Illetas Beach 
Illetas Beach
Sheltered bay with an upmarket feel located in the Bay of Palma
Only 9km from the capital of Palma, Illetas is a holiday resort claiming three picture-perfect beaches. Illetas beach is the main beach, and is more sheltered than the huge stretch of sand that makes up the beach in front of Palma's cathedral, making this one of the nicest beaches in the Bay of Palma.
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Playa de Palma Beach 
Playa de Palma Beach
Long and famous stretch of sand located to the east of Palma
Playa de Palma is a long stretch of beach to the east of Palma de Mallorca and opening onto Palma Bay. It's also one of Mallorca's biggest holiday resorts.
Dining in Es Molinar
Portixol and Molinar both offer a good selection of eateries, with the very best spots taking pride of place on the seafront. An assortment of cuisines is available, from tapas and Spanish seafood to Italian and more modern Asian fusion. Each provides the perfect opportunity to dine in a relaxed setting with terraces overlooking the beach.
Restaurants in Es Molinar
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Ola del Mar Restaurant
Seafront Mediterranean dining with fresh local flavours in the heart of Portixol
Ola del Mar is a seafront gem in Palma’s charming Portixol, offering a dining experience that celebrates the very best of Mediterranean cuisine. With the sea as its backdrop, the restaurant combines elegance with authenticity, inviting guests to savour dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
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El Marino 
El Marino
Seaside restaurant celebrating fresh seafood and the traditions of Mallorcan and Basque fishermen
El Marino Restaurant in Portixol, Palma, is a true tribute to the fishermen of Mallorca and the Basque region, celebrating their skill, bravery, and respect for the sea. This sister restaurant of Kamaleonico brings a maritime focus to its world-class cuisine, offering diners a chance to feel at one with the ocean from the moment they step inside.
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Prosecco Restaurant
Beachfront Italian dining with sun, sea, and sunset views
Perched on the beachfront of Palma’s charming Portixol, Prosecco Restaurant is one of the area’s most popular Italian dining spots. Just steps from the sandy cove and framed by colourful terraced houses, it’s a sun-soaked haven by day and a sunset-view destination by evening.
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Mar y Paz Beach Club 
Mar y Paz Beach Club
International fusion and seafood restaurant on the beach with a pool
Mar y Paz Beach Club, nestled in Can Picafort, is a lively seaside spot where casual dining meets exceptional flavours. What started in 2013 as a tiny café for breakfasts and beers by Noe and Toni has evolved into one of the most iconic meeting points on the bay. Over the past decade, the duo have grown the venue into a vibrant beach club offering both laid-back snacks and exquisite seafood dishes.
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Zaranda Restaurant
Michelin star dining in Mallorca with innovative tasting menus and an intimate, stylish setting
Zaranda Restaurant in Mallorca offers a world-class Michelin dining experience in a relaxed yet intimate setting. Originally opened in 2005 in Madrid, Zaranda quickly earned its first Michelin star and, after relocating to Mallorca, reclaimed this prestigious accolade. In 2016, it was awarded its second Michelin star, cementing its status as one of the island’s premier gastronomic destinations.
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Cafe Es Pes de sa Palla
Fresh, local dishes with a purpose in Palma
Cafe Es Pes de sa Palla is a welcoming all-day café in Palma, with a sunny terrace perfect for people-watching or enjoying a relaxed meal. Known for combining classic dishes with modern touches, the café uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients, creating simple yet satisfying meals that appeal to all tastes.
Nightlife in Es Molinar
Portixol and Molinar are sundowner destinations, rather than big nights out. They are the perfect spot to enjoy a cool beer or to share a bottle of wine after a stroll along the promenade. Travelling around the far side of the port, on the way back to Palma, you can enjoy the beach club vibe, but for some late-night partying, hop in a taxi to Palma.
Bars & Clubs in Es Molinar
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CAV. Bar
Natural wines, tasty bites and lively evenings in the heart of Palma
Cav. Bar is a cosy and lively spot in the heart of Palma, where locals and visitors come together to drink, eat, and enjoy good company. Known for its relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, the bar is particularly popular on evenings during summer, with plenty of people spilling onto the kerbside barrels outside. Even in the cooler months, Cav. remains a favourite for those who appreciate a friendly, sociable environment.
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Moltabarra Bar
Palma tapas bar with great food, lively atmosphere, and a social vibe
Moltabarra Bar is a vibrant tapas bar in the centre of Palma, perfect for enjoying good food in a lively and social atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting Mallorca or a local, it’s a place to meet friends, family, or fellow travellers and enjoy a relaxed meal together.
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La Vinya de Santa Clara Bar
Authentic Palma bar serving top wines, Jamón, and traditional Spanish tapas
La Vinya de Santa Clara is a cosy and authentic local bar in Palma, perfect for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Known for serving some of the best wines and Jamón on the island, this intimate spot captures the true spirit of Palma’s vibrant bar scene.
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Flexas Bar 
Flexas Bar
Historic Palma bar in the city centre blending culture, gastronomy, and lively local spirit
Flexas Bar is a Palma institution, located in the heart of the city’s historic centre and renowned for its unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. Originally opened in 1944 and revived in 2004 by Pepa “la Terre”, Fernando Estrella, and Xavier Aloy, the bar has become a social and cultural landmark, drawing locals, artists, and visitors alike.
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Bar Flexas 
Bar Flexas
Cosy and charismatic bar and restaurant in the heart of Palma
Step into Bar Flexas, a cosy and charismatic bar in the heart of Palma’s Old Town. Since 1944, this emblematic venue has quietly become one of the city’s best-kept secrets, with a predominantly local crowd and the occasional tourist lucky enough to stumble in. Reopened in 2004 by Xavi de las Heras, Pepa Charro, and Fernando Estrella, Bar Flexas sits in what was once Palma’s Chinatown, offering a quirky, authentic atmosphere that’s welcoming to everyone.
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After Landing Cocktail Art 
After Landing Cocktail Art
Creative cocktails and warm hospitality in the heart of Palma’s Old Town
Located close to Plaça Major in Palma’s Old Town, After Landing Cocktail Art Bar is a relaxed and welcoming spot known for its inventive drinks and genuinely friendly service. Created by owners who “landed” in Palma from Argentina, the bar reflects their open, approachable attitude and passion for good hospitality.
Things to do in Es Molinar
Whilst there has been an influx of cosmopolitan residents and some new restaurants have opened up, the area isn’t built for tourism like many of the other tourist hot spots on the island. This is part of its charm!
Take a walk or cycle
The main attraction here is the pedestrianised boulevard that stretches from Palma’s Paseo Maritimo all the way through to the tourist resort of El Arenal, at the other side of the airport. It mounts up to a solid 12km in total, making it a hot spot for cyclists, runners and skaters.
There is a large choice of cycle shops to choose from in and around Portixol and Molinar - city bike, mountain bike, single speed – you name it, they’ll have it.
Café culture is also big on the seafront promenade, although the keen athletes passing by might tempt you to get your active gear on for a run or cycle!
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Private Dinner Party
Eight-hour dinner party with food truck, caterers and events staff
Whether it's a special birthday lunch in a vineyard or a remote farm, a romantic dinner for two, or a private dinner in your own home, they can assist in creating the perfect menu and location.
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Canyoning Trip 
Canyoning Trip
Half day guided canyoning experience on the island of Mallorca
Explore Mallorca's river canyons and gorges on this adrenaline-fueled adventure.
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Island Trekking Trip 
Island Trekking Trip
Full day guided hiking with spectacular scenery in the hills of Mallorca
With breathtaking views, this is one of the best ways to experience the island.
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Teatre Principal de Palma
Palma's main theatre has recently undergone major refurbishment, and now this nineteenth century building has been brought into the twenty-first century.
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Mallorca Free Tour
Learn all about Palma de Mallorca in a free tour of the city
If you want to know about the stories, legends and curiosities of Palma, join this free tour.
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Scooter & Motorbike Hire
Rent a scooter in the heart of Palma and explore the vibrant city and surrounding areas with ease
Renting a scooter is the best way to get around Mallorca. You’ll have the freedom to explore every corner of the island at your own pace, from hidden beaches to charming villages - places only a scooter can take you!
Watersports in Es Molinar
Watersports in Es Molinar
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Coasteering
3hr cliff jumping and abseiling adventure for families or groups of friends
An exhilarating rock and water activity suitable for families and adrenaline-junkies, a great way to explore the coastline of Mallorca.
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Canyoning
5hr, 6hr and 8hr canyoning trips in various locations across Mallorca
Enjoy an exhilarating day trekking and scrambling through gorges, waterfalls and jumping into giant rock pools.
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Private Swimming Lessons
Swimming instruction at your villa in Mallorca for all ages and abilities
Lessons delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
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Jet Ski Hire & Tours
30min & 1hr guided jet ski tours or jet ski hire in 20 minute blocks
Whiz around the local coastline with friends and family
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PETER Diving School
An introduction to diving in Mallorca
Keen on the idea of diving, but not so keen on wearing an air tank on your back? Well, maybe it's time to have a chat with PETER?
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Funny Beach WaterSports
Banana boats, parasailing, ringos and other fun stuff
Funny beach operates on Magaluf Beach, in front of MH Royal Beach, just down from Pirates.
Holiday Rentals in Es Molinar
Staying in short-term rental accommodation gives you the freedom to enjoy the town at your own pace. Whether in the centre or nearer to the outskirts, it’s a relaxed and flexible base. With extra space and the option to cook or dine out, it’s ideal for a comfortable holiday.
Holiday Rentals in Es Molinar
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Palma Suites Residence - Triplex Suite Apartment
This fully equipped and unique apartment is set on three levels, providing a quirky and fun accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Penthouse Suite Apartment
This spectacular loft apartment is fully equipped and provides delightful accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Penthouse Supreme Suite Apartment
This stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Junior Suite Apartment
This fully equipped apartment is ideal for two guests.
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Palma Suites Residence - Standard Suite Apartment
This fully equipped and comfortable apartment is ideal for two guests.
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Palma Suites Residence - Triplex Deluxe Suite Apartment
This fully equipped and spacious apartment is set on three levels, providing an original and fun accommodation for two.
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Hotels in Es Molinar
There is a small luxury hotel in Portixol harbour which perfectly combines the old traditional style of the marina with contemporary features and comforts. Its location means it has the best of both worlds, it embraces the relaxed vibe in Portixol but is within easy walking distance of Palma’s city centre.
One of the latest additions to the hotel portfolio in the area has come from one of the global hotel groups with its Scandi-style with all the luxuries of a large scale hotel including restaurants, a gym, a spa and a rooftop pool with epic views of Palma Bay.
Hotels in Es Molinar
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Portixol Boutique Hotel
Seafront boutique hotel in Portixol harbour near Palma centre
Set in the harbour of Portixol, just a short walk from Palma’s centre and cathedral, Portixol Hotel is a small and stylish property combining traditional character with a modern feel. Its seafront location offers a relaxed atmosphere, while still being close to the city’s main attractions.
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Palma Bay Hotel
Stylish seafront hotel with rooftop pool, spa and direct access to Palma’s convention centre
Overlooking the seafront in Palma de Mallorca, Meliá Palma Bay stands out for its striking contemporary design by renowned architect Francisco Mangado. With its privileged location next to the promenade and direct connection to the Palma Convention Centre, the hotel combines style, comfort and convenience, making it an excellent base for both city breaks and business stays.
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Es Princep Hotel
Authentic Mallorcan design combined with boutique style luxury is a pleasure to indulge in
This 5-star hotel is ideally situated in the Old Town, close to the Bay of Palma and Palma Cathedral. Its crown jewel is the rooftop Almaq terrace with beautiful sea views and an air-conditioned pool with loungers to relax on with a refreshing drink or aperitif. There are a variety of rooms and suites at the hotel - all have free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and air-conditioning. Some rooms and suites also have sea views.
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Calatrava Boutique Hotel
Brilliant service, fantastic views and close to the cathedral
This beautiful hotel building is part of the marine façade of La Calatrava, in the city centre and close to the Cathedral.
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El Llorenc Parc de Mar Hotel
Adults-only luxury boutique hotel situated in Palma old town
Swedish designer, Magnus Ehrland has created a new hotel concept that is surprising and original. The idea is to make everyone feel at home. At El Llorenç you will experience the finest welcome that Mallorca has to offer and its dazzling multilevel rooftop bar will take your breath away with its exceptional vistas of the cathedral and bay of Palma. Located near the seafront and next to the Palma Cathedral you’ll discover the original roots of the island.
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Santa Clara Urban Spa & Hotel
Stylish urban retreat offering prime location, contemporary design, and stunning rooftop terrace views
This charming hotel is located in the historical old town, in the very heart of Palma de Mallorca. It is within easy walking distance of attractions such as the 10th century Arab baths and Palma's breathtaking gothic Cathedral.
How to get to Es Molinar
By car
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Portixol is an 8 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
Public transport
There isn't a direct bus from the airport.
Transfers for Mallorca
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Luxury Chauffeur Services
Exclusive luxury travel across Mallorca in a Rolls Royce
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.
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Private Airport Transfers
Private taxis, minibuses & coaches for Ferry & Airport Transfers in Mallorca
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
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Private Taxi Transfers
Airport transfers to destinations throughout Mallorca
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
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Private Airport Transfers
Taxis and minibuses to cater for up to 55 passengers
A group of taxi drivers with many years of experience in the sector of airport transfers in Mallorca. You can book online in advance or call to book last-minute.
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Private Taxi Transfers
Taxi service to and from the airport
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
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Private Airport Transfers
Door to door airport transfers to anywhere on the island
Great quality service at rates that are irresistible. This company exclusively transfer you around Mallorca without having to pay an excessive price.
Property For Sale in Es Molinar
Property for Sale in Es Molinar
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Apartment for Sale | 8367
This stunning penthouse in Puerto Pollensa is the perfect holiday rental option for up to four people. Situated on the first line of the sea, it's conveniently located near excellent restaurants, bars, and basic amenities.
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Apartment for Sale | 8514
Bright, fully renovated apartment located on the third floor of a building with lift, within a quiet community of only six neighbours, right in the centre of Puerto Pollensa. The beach, main square and the famous Pine Walk are all within easy walking distance.
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Apartment for Sale | 8515
This apartment for sale in Pinaret is a rare opportunity. It features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus two balconies. The standout feature is the private rooftop terrace, offering plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sun. A valid rental license makes this property particularly appealing, as licensed apartments rarely come onto the market.
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Apartment for Sale | 8523
Bright apartment located in the peaceful residential area of Siller, in Puerto Pollensa, with pleasant open views towards the mountains and the natural surroundings.
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Apartment for Sale | 8527
Enjoy an exceptional seafront lifestyle with this three-bedroom apartment for sale in Puerto Pollensa, occupying a privileged frontline position with beautiful open views across the bay.
