The plunging cliffs and rocky coves of Majorca's northwestern coast are a stunning prelude to Port de Pollença. The Mirador de Colomer provides an expansive view of the striking California-like coast that stretches from Punta de la Nau to Punta de la Troneta and includes El Colomer (Pigeon's Rock), named for the nests in its cave.
But it is the 20km (13-mile) stretch of winding, at times vertiginous, road leading from Port de Pollença to the tip of the Formentor Peninsula that delivers the island's most intoxicating scenic views. Cliffs more than 200m (646-ft.) high and spectacular rock-rimmed coves embrace intense turquoise waters. About halfway along this road is Cala de Pi de la Posada, where you will find a lovely bathing beach. Continuing on to the end, you'll come to the lighthouse at Cabo de Formentor.
Wednesday is market day in Port de Pollença, so head for the town square (there's only one) from 8am to 1pm and browse through the fresh produce, leather goods, embroidered tablecloths, ceramics, and more. Bargaining is part of the fun. Sunday is market day in the town of Pollença.
Alcúdia Bay is a long stretch of narrow, sandy beach with beautiful water backed by countless hotels, whose crowds rather overwhelm the area in peak season. The nightlife is more abundant and varied here than in Port de Pollença.
Between Port de Alcúdia and Ca'n Picafort is the Parc Natural de S'Albufera, Carretera Alcúdia-Artá Km 27, 07458 C'an Picafort (tel. 97-189-22-50). A wetlands area of lagoons, dunes, and canals covering some 800 hectares (1,976 acres), it attracts bird-watchers and other nature enthusiasts. To date, more than 200 species of birds have been sighted here, among them herons, owls, ospreys, and warblers. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when migratory birds abound. Spring, too, offers a marvelous display of flora. The park is open daily (except Christmas) October to March from 9am to 5pm and April to September from 9am to 7pm. Visits are free, but you must get a permit at the reception center, where all motorized vehicles must be left. Binoculars are available for rent. The reception center has further information.
In the town of Pollença, about 6km (4 miles) from Port Pollença, is an 18th-century stairway leading up to an ermita (hermitage). Consisting of 365 stairs, it is known as the Monte Calvario (Calvary), but you can also reach the top by car via Carrer de las Cruces, which is lined with 3m-high (10-ft.) concrete crosses.
Cala San Vicente, between Pollença and Port de Pollença, is a pleasant, small, sandy cove with some notable surf. Several small hotels and restaurants provide the necessary amenities.
Various companies offer tours of Pollença Bay, and many provide glass-bottom boats for viewing the varied aquatic creatures and plants. Many of these boats leave from Port de Pollença's Estació Marítim several times daily during the summer months, with less frequent departures in winter. Your hotel concierge or the marina can provide you with a schedule.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
