Pollenca Travel Guide
Where crystal-clear coves, marina vibes and sun-soaked relaxation await on Mallorca’s stunning east coast.
About Pollenca
Pollenca (also known as Pollensa) is a picturesque town in the northern part of Mallorca that offers a blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal vacation spot. Its charming cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and a lively central square give it a quintessential Mediterranean feel. Pollenca is also known for its rich history, evident in landmarks like the Roman bridge and the 13th-century church of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles. The town has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, local artisan shops, and its famous annual music festival.
For nature lovers, Pollenca is close to the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, offering great hiking and cycling routes. Just a short drive away, you’ll find some of Mallorca’s most beautiful beaches, including Cala Formentor and Puerto Pollenca, perfect for relaxing by the sea. Pollenca’s combination of cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and proximity to both mountains and beaches makes it a fantastic vacation destination for all kinds of travelers.
Read on to discover the best beaches, bars and restaurants in Pollenca. For accommodations, see our favourite 6 hotels in Pollenca.
Editor’s note: We lived in Pollenca in 2018, and it was a beautiful three months spent exploring the countryside between Pollenca and Alcudia during the autumn months, leading into Christmas. We wandered the stunning beaches from Formentor to Cala Sant Vicenç and strolled through the quiet, cozy old towns of Alcudia and Pollenca. Regular trips into Palma added to the experience, solidifying our decision that Mallorca would become our dream place to live.
The best beaches near Pollenca
The beaches near Pollenca are some of the most stunning on the island, offering a mix of natural beauty and tranquil spots perfect for relaxation. One of the standout beaches is Platja Formentor, a long stretch of white sand surrounded by pine trees and crystal-clear waters. Its dramatic backdrop of the Tramuntana mountains and views over the bay make it one of Mallorca's most iconic beaches. Cala Sant Vicenç is another gem, with its small coves and turquoise waters set against rocky cliffs, providing a more secluded and intimate beach experience.
For a more leisurely experience, walking the Pine Walk along the seafront in Puerto Pollenca is a must. The shaded path winds through a peaceful stretch of coastline, lined with pine trees and offering beautiful views of the bay. After your walk, taking a refreshing dip in the calm waters of the Bay of Pollenca is the perfect way to unwind, with its shallow, clear waters making it a favourite for families and those looking to escape the crowds.
The best beach clubs near Pollenca
The beach club scene near Pollenca is more relaxed, but heading down to Playa de Muro and Can Picafort brings you to some of the island's best beach clubs. Numa Beach Club, located on Playa de Muro, offers a chic and laid-back vibe with sunbeds, Mediterranean cuisine, and refreshing cocktails, all set against the backdrop of the crystal-clear waters of Alcudia Bay. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a stylish beach day in a serene atmosphere.
Further along the coast, Ponderosa Beach is another standout. Known for its cool, bohemian vibe, this beach club is a local favourite for its relaxed atmosphere, excellent food with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, and breathtaking sea views. It’s the ideal place to unwind, enjoy the sunset, and indulge in delicious cocktails. Both clubs capture the essence of Mallorca’s beach scene, combining comfort with the island’s natural beauty, just a short drive from Pollenca.
Discover the best hotels in Pollenca
The boutique and luxury hotel scene in Pollenca combines elegance, history, and a sense of tranquility, creating the perfect setting for a sophisticated getaway. Many of the hotels are housed in beautifully restored traditional Mallorcan buildings, offering a blend of modern comfort and historic charm.
Can Aulí is a standout for its understated luxury, featuring minimalist yet warm interiors that make you feel at home. This hotel beautifully merges contemporary design with rustic elements, set within the heart of Pollenca’s old town. Mon Boutique Hotel offers a similar charm, with its sleek, modern aesthetic housed within a historic setting. Its rooftop pool and terrace provide stunning views of the surrounding area, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
For a countryside escape, The Lodge and Son Brull are exceptional options. Son Brull, a converted 18th-century monastery, offers a luxurious retreat with a spa, farm-to-table dining, and serene surroundings in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains. The Lodge provides a more intimate experience with lush landscapes and a peaceful, nature-focused atmosphere.
Where to eat and drink in Pollenca
The eating and drinking scene in Polleca is diverse and vibrant, offering a range of experiences that differ between the town, the port, and the surrounding countryside, including some of the island's luxurious farm hotels.
Pollenca Town
In the heart of Pollenca, you'll find a more intimate and traditional dining atmosphere. The town’s restaurants, many housed in beautifully restored historic buildings, offer a mix of Mallorcan classics and modern Mediterranean cuisine. Dining here often means enjoying a meal in a cozy stone-walled interior or out on a charming plaza. Pollenca town is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a more traditional, relaxed setting with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Read more about our top picks in Pollenca.
Port Pollenca
By contrast, Port Pollenca offers a more laid-back, coastal vibe, with many of the restaurants and bars located along the seafront promenade. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood, tapas, and international cuisine while taking in views of the bay. The Pine Walk area is especially popular for its relaxed waterfront dining options, offering a range of family-friendly spots and chic eateries. The atmosphere in the port is more lively and social, with casual beach bars and stylish restaurants catering to a mix of locals and tourists. Read more about our top picks in Port de Pollenca.
Farm Hotels and Rural Dining
For a more exclusive, countryside dining experience, the luxury farm hotels and agroturismos around Pollenca provide an unforgettable farm-to-table approach. Places like Son Brull offer a gourmet dining experience that emphasizes local produce, much of it grown on-site, in a serene, rural setting. These venues combine the tranquility of the countryside with high-end, contemporary dining, making them ideal for those looking to escape the bustle of town or port and enjoy a more intimate, nature-inspired meal.
Things to do in Pollenca
Pollenca offers a mix of activities that showcase its natural beauty, rich history, and scenic landscapes. Here are a few of the best things to do in and around Pollenca:
Hike up Puig de Maria
The hike up Puig de Maria is one of the must-do activities in Pollenca. The 330-meter hill provides a moderately challenging 45-minute trek to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Pollenca town, the Bay of Pollenca, and the Tramuntana mountains. At the summit, there’s an ancient monastery, perfect for exploring or enjoying a picnic while taking in the breathtaking views.
Climb the Calvari Steps
The 365 Calvari Steps are a signature landmark of Pollenca. The walk to the top takes you through Pollenca’s picturesque old town, and each step is lined with cypress trees and charming houses. At the top, the tiny chapel offers sweeping views of the town and countryside, making it a rewarding spot for a quiet moment and a photo opportunity.
Explore the Drive to Sóller
The scenic drive from Pollenca to Sóller is one of the most beautiful on the island. Winding through the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, this drive offers jaw-dropping views of rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and coastal vistas. Sóller itself is a charming town worth exploring, with its iconic orange groves, traditional stone buildings, and vibrant town square. If you're feeling adventurous, continue your journey to the nearby Port de Sóller for a taste of Mallorca's seaside beauty.
Health and wellness in Pollenca
Son Brull Hotel & Spa
Just outside Pollenca, Son Brull offers one of the most luxurious wellness experiences in the region. The spa provides a range of treatments using local, natural products, including massages, facials, and body wraps. You can also enjoy its thermal spa circuit, sauna, and outdoor relaxation areas, surrounded by peaceful countryside views. The hotel’s wellness offerings are complemented by yoga classes and a serene environment for meditation and relaxation.
Mon Boutique Hotel
In the heart of Pollenca town, Mon Boutique Hotel also offers a wellness experience. Although smaller, its rooftop pool provides a peaceful spot to relax with views over the old town and surrounding mountains. While there’s no dedicated spa, the tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal base for those looking to unwind.
How to get to Pollenca & the best time to visit
How to Get to Pollenca
Fly into Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI): This is the main airport serving Mallorca and is well-connected to numerous cities across Europe.
Car Rental: After landing, you can rent a car at the airport. Several major car rental companies operate there, offering a range of vehicles for different needs. Renting a car is ideal for exploring Pollenca and other parts of the island, as it allows you to discover hidden gems and enjoy the scenic drives. We recommend offUgo (affiliate link with 10% discount for our readers).
Drive to Pollenca: The drive from Palma to Pollenca takes about 45 minutes, covering around 60 kilometers. You’ll take the Ma-13 motorway, which is well-maintained and offers beautiful views along the way.
Best Time to Visit
Late Spring (May to June): This is one of the best times to visit Pollenca. The weather is pleasantly warm, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring. Tourist crowds are still manageable, making it easier to enjoy the local attractions and restaurants.
Early Fall (September to October): Another excellent time to visit, as the summer heat starts to subside. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, and the vineyards and countryside are particularly beautiful as the harvest season begins.
Avoiding Peak Season: While July and August are the busiest months, with lots of tourists and high temperatures, visiting in the shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) allows you to enjoy Pollenca’s charm without the overwhelming crowds.
By renting a car and planning your trip during these shoulder seasons, you can experience Pollenca in a more relaxed atmosphere while taking advantage of the island’s natural beauty and rich culture.
