Puerto Portals Christmas Market 2016 Review

With globalisation, the Christmas market sensation is becoming a popular ritual around the world, and there’s no exception for this little island in the middle of the Mediterranean. Whilst there are dozens of Christmas markets on the island, Puerto Portals is the one for a more sophisticated winter wonderland experience in Mallorca. Here you can expect the usual Christmas market treats within the Alpine wooden-roofed huts, but you can also forget the usual stresses and strains of Christmas markets you might have experienced in the past. Fighting through the crowds? Absolutely not! Getting lost in a maze of stalls? Nope! Tacky decorations? Not a chance! For this is an upmarket affair!

What it lacks in size, is made up for in quality at this particular Christmas market. Don’t get me wrong, you can be entertained for at least a couple of hours with dozens of stalls piled high for those who like to dabble in a bit of Christmas shopping, and you won’t go home hungry with plenty of mouth-watering food. But the quality of these products on offer appear to be in another league to other Christmas markets I have attended in both Germany and Britain.

So let’s start with the shopping, firstly you will be pleased to hear that you won’t see the same goods over and over again. Each stall is uniquely decked with Alpine crafts, stylish Christmas ornaments, handcrafted jewellery, knitwear and fur goods. The prices vary depending on each product, for example, you can find knick-knacks like candle holders and Christmas decorations for as little as 6€ but don’t be shocked to see oversized lanterns and leather shoes selling for 200€.

It wouldn’t be a Christmas market without mulled wine (Gluhwein from 2.50€) and there are plenty of opportunities to warm up your hands with a cup because it is sold on every other food stall. Alternatively, you could try something new like a hot Mojito (5€). Or, if hot drinks aren’t your thing, there’s wine (from 3.50€) beer (from 2.50€) and soft drinks (from 2.50€) available. For those with a taste for bubbles, have no fear, bottles of bubbly are always available in Puerto Portals, and a Christmas market is no exception. You can get your hands on a bottle of cava (from 19€) or a glass of chilled champagne if you prefer.

Billy’s Exclusive certainly appeared to be the Alpine hot spot, situated in the middle of the market. Here you’ll find groups of friends gathering for their favourite festive tipple under the Scavi & Ray branded umbrellas and stools draped with snow white fur throws.

The real charm of this Christmas market was the assortment of cultures all intertwined through its offerings. This was particularly highlighted through the cuisine on offer, the ‘Bavarian veal sausage with sweet mustard and homemade organic bread’ (4€), or Swiss Raclette (6.50€) through to a plate of mouth-watering Iberico ham (12€) and a whole lot more. There are also crepes, waffles and Christmas cakes available for those in need of a festive sugar fix. The market certainly meets individual cultural preferences and tastes when it comes to a Christmas market experience.

In these elegant and luxurious surroundings, it comes as no surprise that there is an abundance of well-presented clientele with their designer handbags and dogs. Whilst I feel this particular market is tailored more towards adults, it does have entertainment for children so make sure you check out the calendar of events on the port’s Facebook page. Otherwise, don't forget that you can find a small ice skating rink on the other side of the port.

Open from the 16th December until the 6th of January, there is plenty of opportunity to make a trip over the Christmas period, so get yourselves down to the Port with family or friends to soak up the festive atmosphere.

¡Feliz Navidad!