The winter can be a gloomy place in the UK, which is why I always recommend jetting off for a relaxing winter sun holiday to get the year off to a great start. This year, I think that the beautiful and tranquil small town of Puerto Pollensa in sunny Majorca is a great choice for sun and culture.
Puerto Pollensa is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, long beaches, oyster-shaped bay and stunning Serra de Tramuntana mountains in the background. This picturesque town is considered to be “authentic” Majorca distinct from the sun, sea and sand resorts found to the south. This also means that the town boasts several cultural highlights that I think you’ll enjoy:
Enjoy cycling? Discover the best routes in Puerto Pollensa here!
Museums
Martí Vicenç Museum: Located in a stunning former monastery from the 17th century, this museum celebrates talented local artist Martí Vicenç Alemany who became famous for his innovative and influential textiles. Here you can view an extensive collection and see the many tools and
Museum Dionís Bennàssar: This museum is the former home of legendary painter Dionís Bennàssar and it is where he created many of his most important pieces. The house is now filled with a number of his works along with personal objects, but it also hosts regular temporary exhibitions, concerts and more, so be sure to check what’s on while you are visiting.
Municipal Museum of Pollensa: As you can probably tell, art is a big deal in Pollensa, and it has hosted many renowned artists through the ages who have come to its shores inspiration. This artistic presence motivated the museum to establish the Summer Exhibition of Painting in the 60’s, and its halls are filled with the works that won awards at past exhibitions.
The Rotger Villalonga Foundation
Founded in 1979, this estate is a tribute to the iconic Majorcan poet Miguel Costa I Llobera and his work. Covering 710 hectares, the grounds provide paths for leisurely strolls that lead visitors around the carefully restored grounds and buildings. You’ll find the institution at the northernmost point of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains with a path that leads down to Cala Murta beach. The foundation staff organise events throughout the year, so check the schedule to see what is on during your stay.
The Music Festival of Pollensa
Music lovers may want to plan their stay to coincide with this brilliant festival which has been held here every summer since 1961. Since its foundation there have been dozens of big names and rising talents playing beneath the stars to an audience drawn from around the world. The festival features world-class musicians including orchestras, soloists, opera singers, choruses and more within the spectacular Sant Domingo Cloister (the acoustics here are tremendous, too).
The details of 2018’s festival have not yet been revealed, but last year’s acts included Nelson Freire, Quartet Mandelring and Les Musiciens Du Louvre.
Golf Pollensa
One of the most enjoyable ways to enjoy the gorgeous landscape and get some fresh air is to tee off at Golf Pollensa. There are many great courses here (and the weather is perfect), but Golf Pollensa is integrated into the local environment and provides lovely views of the mountains, bay and S’Albufereta Nature Reserve. It also features two of the longest holes on the island! After 9 or 18 holes, I highly recommend retiring to the restaurant and bar for well-earned refreshments and views of the course.
How to Get There
The best way to reach Puerto Pollensa is to fly from one of the London airports into Palma Mallorca (PMI). The flight takes around two hours and is made by the majority of the main airlines.
The airport is the other side of the island, but it is a small island so it will only take an hour by road. I suggest pre-booking a private Shuttle Direct transfer to take the stress out of onwards travel and so that you can sit back and enjoy the ride.
Where to Stay
FERGUS Style Pollensa Park SPA: This hotel is just a 3-minute stroll from the beach and 15 minutes to the old town, but it also features its own peaceful gardens, an outdoor swimming pool, spa and gym. The on-site buffet ensures that you will never go hungry, and there is a great selection of food available. The spacious rooms come with satellite TV, but you are likely to spend most of your time on your private balcony looking out over the sea.
Puerto Azul Suite Hotel: A 5-minute walk to the marina and 10 minutes from the beach, this property is set within attractive gardens with great views of the surrounding mountains. The bright suites come with a lounge area complete with a TV, sofa and fridge. The on-site restaurant has an inviting terrace, but you are also just a short walk from the bars and restaurants along the seafront. Previous guests have commented on the friendliness of the staff, too.
Formentor, a Royal Hideaway Hotel: Those who enjoy the finer things will want to check out this hotel, which offers world-class service and stunning facilities in a beautiful location next to Formentor Bay. The hotel features two swimming pools, a friendly beach restaurant (amongst a few others), 5 tennis courts, a games room and a health and beauty centre. The huge rooms are air-conditioned and come with a range of amenities. It would be easy to spend your entire trip here, but you are also just a 2-minute walk to the beach.
About Shuttle Direct:
You can rest easy with Shuttle Direct as we can take all the stress out of arranging travel on your holiday. We provide a fast, reliable and efficient service between airports, hotels, train stations and other areas of interest throughout Europe.
Book now using our online system and we will take care of the rest.
