We’re all looking for something slightly different from our ideal summer getaway. Some of us crave tranquillity and beautiful scenery; others want to live it up partying from dusk till dawn. But if what you’re looking for is plenty of sunshine, golden sand beaches fully equipped with sun loungers, parasols and a wide range of water sports, and a resort full of lively bars and restaurants, then Mallorca’s C’an Picafort could be for you.
Set on the northern coast of one of Spain’s most popular Balearic islands, C’an Picafort was once a small village whose economy was based on the fish the local fishermen caught off its shores. But those days are long gone and now – thanks to years of development of the town as a tourist destination, there is very little evidence of its origins amongst the purpose built bars, cafés and hotels that make up the resort. While the result of that is that there’s little left here for culture vultures to explore, it does mean that holidaymakers looking for a beach holiday will find excellent, modern facilities, a wide range of entertainment and lots of places to eat and stay.
Castles in the Sand
C’an Picafort is a resort for sun worshippers and beach lovers. The main stretch of sand, known locally as Platja de Santa, is a long, wide expanse with enough room to accommodate the summer crowds comfortably. Facilities are excellent with showers and toilets and, when you rent a sun lounger, you will even be given a safe in which you can lock up your valuables. The gentle slope into the water makes this a great family-friendly stretch and those with an appreciation for nature will enjoy the beautiful view of the island’s mountains. There are, of course, water sports a plenty on Platja de Santa, with everything from paddleboarding and banana boats to sailing, windsurfing and scuba diving.
Off The Beaten Track
If you prefer your sunbathing to be a less crowded affair then it’s well worth heading a little further out of town to the Platja de Son Real. At this 5km stretch of coast to the southwest of the resort you’ll find small sand beaches scattered along the rocky coast with few, if any, other visitors. Lay out your towel and drink in the stunning beauty of the turquoise water, surrounding sand dunes and pine forests.
Platja de Son Bauló, a short walk along the coast from the resort, is another beautiful beach which is often much quieter than the main resort. There are sun loungers, coast guards and pedalos available or, if you really want to relax, visit the ‘massage station’ for a bit of beach-side pampering. There are three cafés along the shore and snorkelling equipment is available to rent.
Mallorca’s Most Beautiful Stretch of Coast
Just a short distance from C’an Picafort is the stunning Playa de Muro. A Blue Flag beach, this expanse of golden sand draws visitors from all over the island and when you get there you’ll understand why. As you emerge from the sand dunes which shelter Playa de Muro you’ll discover a 2km stretch of fine sand, lapped by clear turquoise waters. There are plenty of cafés, beach bars and water sports here so it’s well worth planning to spend the day.
Living it Up: Bars and Nightlife
If quaint, traditional restaurants and sleepy local bars are you’re thing, you’re in the wrong place. C’an Picafort has made its reputation on giving its English and German visitors what they want, and that’s familiar food, plenty of beer, wine and cocktails and a fun, lively atmosphere. As a result the town is bustling at night with friendly restaurants serving everything from pizza and chips to full roasts with Yorkshire puddings. Whatever your taste in music is you’ll find a bar for you. There are also plenty of family-friendly options around the resort with the kind of food that even fussy eaters will recognise and want to try.
Things to Do Away From the Beach
If you can drag yourself away from the glorious sunshine then there are plenty of interesting sights to discover in and around C’an Picafort, from ancient ruins to local culture.
Weekly Market
There is a market every Friday morning held in the town with plenty of local arts and crafts on sale – perfect if you’re looking for souvenirs.
Spooky Sights at the Necropolis de Son Real
For the macabre amongst you the Necropolis de Son Real can be found a short walk from Platja de Son Bauló. This ancient burial site dates back to the seventh century with more than 110 tombs built into the rocky ground.
Go Wild at S’Albufera Park and Wetlands
This wildlife sanctuary is an amazing place to spend a morning. Birds come from across Europe to nest in the protected wetlands including osprey, eagles and kingfishers.
How to Get to C’an Picafort
Flying to Mallorca is easy, with a range of scheduled flights from across the UK taking around two and a half hours. It can also be very cheap with airlines including Ryanair and easyJet competing for passengers. Flights land at Palma Mallorca Airport on the southwest of the island and transfers to the resort take around one hour. I would strongly recommend booking your airport transfer before you leave home with Shuttle Direct to avoid the stress of finding transport when you land with all your luggage in tow.
Where to Stay
Js Miramar – You won’t get much closer to the main beach than the modern, stylish Js Miramar. This three-star hotel is just a one-minute stroll from the sand and, in case that’s too much, has its own terrace and pool with sea view.
Confluentia Playa – Enjoy a home-away-from-home with an apartment in the Confluentia Playa. Set just beside the beachfront, these bright apartments include free WiFi and a shared garden.
Xarxes – There’s a basic, rustic charm at the three-bedroom villa at Xarxes. With its own outdoor rooftop terrace with barbecue and sea views, it’s a great place to relax with friends or family. It also has free WiFi throughout.
About Shuttle Direct
Whether you are looking for cheap shared group transfers you can trust or a private car with a driver for you and your party, Shuttle Direct has a full range of airport transfer options available. As one of the leading airport transfer providers in Europe and North Africa, Shuttle Direct offers you the opportunity to book online before you set off so that you can arrive at your destination knowing that all your transport needs are already taken care of.
