A perfect week in the north of Mallorca

Where to stay – villas in North Mallorca

On many holidays, deciding to stay can be a make-or-break decision. Luckily a holiday almost anywhere in North Mallorca means gorgeous views and endless options for activities!

For those who enjoy a bustling atmosphere, Puerto Pollensa or Puerto Alcudia offer beautiful beaches and plenty to do. Alternatively, you could choose a villa in the countryside, surrounded by nature, or base yourself in a lovely traditional Mallorcan town like Selva.

And remember, Mallorca is a relatively small island, meaning you’re never too far away from the next place to explore!

Cycle in North Mallorca

Mallorca is famous for its cycle routes, beautiful weather, and breath-taking scenery. There are plenty of routes to try for avid cyclists and casual riders alike. Sa Calobra offers a challenging but very rewarding climb with hairpin bends and a unique 270° loop-the-loop turn.

Or why not cycle up to the lighthouse at Cap de Formentor? You’ll be surrounded by beautiful views of the endless, deep-blue Mediterranean, contrasted against rugged cliffs. Wherever you decide to cycle, make sure you research the route thoroughly!

Explore Roman ruins

A little away from the well-known town of Alcúdia lies a fascinating Roman excavation site. The former town is called Pollentia (not to be confused with the similarly named town of Pollensa). It dates back to around 123 BC when the Romans used Alcúdia’s beaches to seize Mallorca, establishing the settlement of Pollentia.

Although the site was eventually abandoned, its excavated remains are open to visitors today. Explorers can see the remains of Roman houses and a once spectacular amphitheatre. Expect to pay a small entrance fee and take plenty of water if visiting in hot weather.

Visit a local market in a traditional town

You can find lovely traditional towns dotted around North Mallorca, many of which have weekly markets.

Pollensa sits a little inland from its coastal counterpart, Puerto Pollensa. As a traditional Mallorcan town, its cobbled streets welcome tourists and locals alike. There’s a lot to do here, including climbing the 365 Calvari Steps that lead to a hillside. There, you’ll find a charming little church and sweeping panoramic views.

Pollensa’s weekly market currently runs every Sunday morning, but it’s advisable to check in advance before you go.

Artà lies at the foot of a beautiful mountain in the north-east of Mallorca. The town is rich in culture, with art galleries, museums, and the famous Santuari de Sant Salvador, where visitors can walk along the battlements and take in fantastic views.

If you have time, the Coves d’Artà are found a few miles out of town towards the coast. These are a spectacular network of natural caves, with huge stalactites and domed ceilings.

Artà’s local market is a must see for visitors to the area, usually held on a Tuesday morning in the centre of town.

Try out water sports

Thanks to the abundance of sandy beaches stretching along the Mediterranean, Mallorca offers a wonderful range of water sports. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice looking for a local school, there’s something for everyone.

Many ports also offer the option to charter a boat. This gives you the freedom to explore the beautiful island from a new perspective and even find some hidden gems along the way.

Climb a mountain

Your holiday in North Mallorca is the perfect chance to climb a mountain, big or small. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range offers some incredible hiking routes. The famous Dry Stone Route runs all the way from Puerto Andratx to Pollensa, with mountain refuges along the way and several route variations.

If you decide to hike in Mallorca, make sure to do thorough research and choose your route carefully. It’s important to take adequate supplies and wear the right footwear, avoiding hiking in very hot weather.

Visit a nature reserve in North Mallorca

S’Albufera sits near Alcudia on Mallorca’s north coast. It’s the largest wetland on the island, dating back to ancient times. It’s home to a wonderful variety of birds, scenic views, and a range of walks.

Alternatively, there are many little natural parks sprinkled along the north coast. Not all of these offer an abundance of wildlife, but many boast beautiful sea views and even cove beaches. Researching areas such as S’Illot is a great place to start.

Take a day trip

Wherever you are in North Mallorca, you’re never far from an adventure. If you decide to rent a car, you can easily take fantastic day trips and discover what the other areas of the island have to offer. Here are a few day trip examples for inspiration.

Deia

Deia is a gorgeous village nestled between the mountains in West Mallorca. Sand-coloured buildings line the streets of the main village, while the nearby Cala Deia offers Mediterranean views from its shingle cove beach.

With art galleries and restaurants, Deia caters to its often affluent and creative residents as well as tourists. A day trip to Deia from Puerto Pollensa takes just over an hour by car.

Palma

Visiting North Mallorca doesn’t mean missing out on the capital. Palma is actually less than an hour away from Puerto Pollensa by car and only around an hour and a half away by bus. Alternatively, you could book in for a night or two at the beginning or end of your trip. There’s certainly plenty to see!

The capital has a unique charm, with plenty of areas to explore, including the Soho-like Santa Catalina, Palma’s old town complete with gothic churches, and the old fishing district of Portixol Molinar. There is also a 10-mile-long bay with a lovely beach and plenty of amenities.

Soller

Soller is a laid-back town in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Soller’s narrow streets weave in and out of leafy squares, and a little wooden tram trundles down to the port a few miles away. There, visitors can find a wonderful beach with bars, restaurants, and shops.

The journey from Puerto Pollensa to Soller takes around an hour by car, but you might encounter some hairpin mountain bends along the way!

Wherever you decide to go in Mallorca, we’re here to help. You can browse incredible Mallorcan villas on our website or get in touch for more details.