Many of Majorca’s millions of visitors who come annually often stay in the island’s main city, Palma, or head straight to the popular tourist spots of Magaluf.
However, there are one or two hidden gems as this blogger soon discovered.
Once away from the hustle and bustle of Palma, it will not be long before realising the true Majorca in the shape of the municipality of Alcudia.
Beaches, architecture and history abound, Alcudia is an essential place to visit if you are planning to visit the Balearic islands largest isle.
Beaches
Alcudia Beach
Alcudia Beach is the area’s ‘Blue Riband’ beach and is renowned for its white sands and clear blue sea.
Behind there are a string of hotels, bars and restaurants as the beach stretches three and a half kilometres (two miles) along Majorca’s coastline.
In addition, the beach has been awarded the prestigious blue flag title recognising the environmental friendliness of this magnificent shoreline.
Playa de Muro Beach
Just round the corner from Alcudia Beach is the spectacular Playa de Muro Beach.
At more than five kilometres (three miles), it is longer than its neighbour and is slightly more tranquil.
Nevertheless, there is still plenty of life with bars and restaurants nearby.
Playa de Muro is also recognised as a blue flag beach.
Alcanada Beach
If it is crystal clear water you are after then the beach of Alcanada often proves to be a popular choice, particularly with families due to its peaceful nature.
For fine dining, restaurants are not far away from the pebbled beach and it lies opposite a well-known island with a lighthouse.
Formentor Beach
If you are feeling particularly adventurous then it is well worth taking a boat trip out to Formentor Beach.
For those slightly less adventurous holidaymakers the option of going by car is also available as it is a short ride up the coast from Alcudia. However, many tourists enjoy the boat option that takes you right round the bay as you visit one of the island’s best beaches. The sights on offer of the coastline as you cruise round, whether by boat or car, are truly amazing.
Formentor is especially spectacular because of its lush sands, turquoise sea and the mountains and greenery on view.
If you visit just one beach away from Alcudia, make that one beach Formentor. You will not regret it.
Nature
S’Albufera Nature Reserve
S’Albufera is a former lagoon that is recognised as the largest wetland area on the Balearic Islands.
The park is particularly well known for its array of fish and birds, as well as plantlife. In addition, it has a spectacular variety of invertebrates.
Lying less than a ten minute drive from Alcudia, the nature reserve is widely regarded as a must see when you visit this part of Majorca.
Archaeology
Alcudia’s Old Town
At the heart of the city of Alcudia is the old district and is popular amongst visitors due to its tranquillity during the day where you can marvel at the history.
In addition, you can try one of the numerous local restaurants with cuisine that the people of Alcudia are understandably proud of.
Moreover, you can satisfy a little desire for picking up gifts for friends and family back home as there are shops aplenty to get something truly from the centre of Alcudia.
San Jaume Church
The church of San Jaume is the domineering feature of the old town due to its size as it towers over the nearby structures.
Once inside, the art makes spectacular viewing. In particular, the rose window designed by local artist Ferrer Marti attracts a lot of attention.
Alcudia’s Walls
The town is surrounded by historical walls and are especially popular due to dating back to medieval times.
This 14th century wall is widely regarded as one of the gems of Alcudia and is a sight that is essential to be viewed by all who visit the port of Alcudia.
Pollentia
On the edge of the historic part of Alcudia is situated the ancient Roman town of Pollentia.
Dating back to 123BC Pollentia is one of the historical highlights of the entire island of Majorca.
Despite its ancient past it was only at the beginning of the last century that it was excavated and today is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the isle.
If all that was not enough, it is a relatively cheap site to visit, costing just two euros to enter and sample a piece of history.
How to get there to Alcudia
Alcudia is just half an hour away from Palma de Majorca Airport thanks to Shuttle Direct’s luxurious and efficient transportation.
The airport has links all over Europe and receives flights from low cost carriers, such as Ryan Air and Easy Jet, as well as the upscale airlines, like British Airways and Iberia.
Whilst at the airport, you can enjoy local cuisine, relax or even satisfy some last minute urge for retail therapy
Whether it be a private, a shared or a group transfer you are looking for, Shuttle Direct can take care of your requirements, making your journey as pleasurable and comfortable as possible.
Where to stay
Budget
For a good value for money option in Alcudia you need look no further than the Alcudia Garden Aparthotel, with prices often below €50 per night for a room (prices may vary depending on the season).
Despite the price, you will still be less than 100 metres from the beach in this three star complex.
Including two swimming pools, a large garden and free wifi throughout, this venue is ideal for those on a budget but still looking for excellent standards.
Mid-Range
For a slightly more up market option, but still offering great value, the Ca’n Pere four star hotel is just perfect.
Some of the rooms boast a terrace and a Jacuzzi if you wish to add a little extra to your bill.
Nevertheless, if you are looking for less frills then you can just enjoy the ambience within this renovated 19th century building.
Featuring free internet, a bar and a cosy restaurant, this mid-range hotel in the centre of Alcudia will not disappoint.
Luxury
If it is something more exclusive you are looking for then you could do a lot worse than trying out the Pollentia Club Resort.
A short taxi ride from the centre of Alcudia, the Pollentia’s highlights include three swimming pools, a tennis court and a watersports centre.
It is situated within Majaorca’s Bay of Pollensa and lies along the Can Cap de Bou Beach.
As for the rooms, you can enjoy garden and sea views from the balcony, in addition to free wifi and air conditioning.
Given its status, it is unsurprisingly popular, especially during high season, so it is advised to book well in advance.
