Anyone with children knows that a ‘family friendly’ destination has a lot of boxes to tick in order to make it on to a holiday hit list. Puerto Pollensa (or Port de Pollenca) on the picturesque north-west coast of Mallorca is, quite deservedly, one of the most popular family resorts in the Balearics. It’s pretty close to perfect in terms of activities, attractions, and fun factor.
Here are three exciting family activities in Puerto Pollensa that might tip the scales when planning your next holiday.
A Day at the Beach
Everybody’s favourite day out is to the beach – especially when children are involved. Puerto Pollensa’s gentle horseshoe-shaped bay, with its striking backdrop of the Tramuntana mountains, is perfect for swimming, sunbathing or taking part in the many water sports available. You can hire out pedalos so the whole family can get out safely on the water, you can paddle around the bay on a kayak or surf ski or you can get the adrenaline flowing with parasailing or a wild ride on a banana boat. There are also two scuba diving schools, so if you’ve always wanted to head underwater in search of an octopus’s garden, this is the ideal place to do so.
A Day in the Mountains
The Tramuntana mountains make for the perfect place to explore on two feet or two wheels. There are some excellent hiking and cycling trails, including those that lead through the Tramuntana Valley and to neighbouring towns like Cala Sant Vincenc and Cala Boquer. Hiking and cycling can take the form of a gentle excursion close to town, or a more challenging and longer expedition into the mountains that can last a couple of days. Bikes can be hired from the town and you can set off on your own or join a guided tour.
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Walking Through History
For a different kind of walking, the whole family can enjoy a stroll around the town’s sites of historical importance. It’s a great way to add a little education into the holiday mix. Places to visit include the lovely Roman bridge in the centre of town and the Placa Major, which features a beautiful fountain at its centre. The most popular site with children, however, is the Via Crucis – even though it also requires the most effort. After an energetic climb up the 350 or so steps, which cut through a striking pathway of cypress trees, visitors come face to face with an impressive 13th century statue and some absolutely breath-taking views over the city.
These are just three of Puerto Pollensa’s many attractions, but if you experience at least these, you’ll get a pretty well-rounded taste of this hugely enjoyable destination.
How to Get to Puerto Pollensa
Getting to Puerto Pollensa is easiest by air, flying in to Mallorca’s Son Sant Joan International airport. For those travelling by road around Europe, there are regular ferries to Palma from Barcelona, Denia or Valencia. From Palma, Mallorca airport transfers can transport you directly to your final destination in Puerto Pollensa, which will take around 1.5 hours.
Shared Shuttle Service: The most cost effective transport from the airport to Puerto Pollensa is a shared shuttle service.
Taxi Service: You can also book a private taxi or shuttle service direct to your accommodation, or share the costs with another traveller, depending on the number in your own party.
Where to Stay
Apartamentos Sivella – For budget friendly self-catering accommodation in Puerto Pollensa, the Apartamentos Sivella is an ideal option. All apartments have a fresh, contemporary décor and feature parquetry floors, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, kitchen with microwave and oven, balconies and mountain or sea views. The apartment complex is situated right next to the beach and is just an easy walk to the centre of town.
Hotel Capri – Located right on the seafront, the Hotel Capri, in the Pine Walk area, offers great amenities, excellent accommodation and a delightful setting. Rooms are spacious and feature air conditioning, mini-bar, ensuite bathrooms and satellite TV. The beach is just steps away and the hotel has an onsite restaurant, a lounge and a terrace, all overlooking the ocean.
Hotel Miramar – Featuring a private beach and an onsite spa and wellness centre, the Hotel Miramar offers style and luxury in a picturesque location. With an elegant décor and excellent amenities, the spacious rooms include private bathrooms, flat screen TVs and free toiletries. The spa and wellness centre offers massages, a gym, a sauna and a hot tub and there is also an outdoor pool. There is a delightful beachfront restaurant and room service is available.
Header image: “Puerto Pollensa 2” by Son of Groucho is licenced under CC BY 2.0
