There are so many things to love about Mallorca: there are tons of great cathedrals and historic monuments to explore, it’s handicap-accessible and don’t even get me started on its amazing beaches!
Today I’m going to spotlight Playa de Muro, an idyllic Spanish retreat nestled on the sandy shores of the Alcúdia Bay in northern Mallorca. Whether you’re a shopaholic, a foreign food connoisseur or are looking for something to keep even the youngest family members entertained, keep reading to learn more about this sunny island town that really does have something for everyone.
For Shopaholics
If you love looking through market stalls for unique souvenirs and trinkets to remember your travels, make sure you head to the market on Avenida S’Albufera on Saturday mornings. This market is brimming with beautiful Spanish treasures like local olive oils, leather goods and handcrafted shell jewellery. Can’t make it on Saturday? The Alcudia Old Town market is open on Tuesdays and Sundays for additional souvenir shopping.
Top Tip: If you check out the Saturday Avenida S’Albufera market, make sure you save a few extra Euros for some bunuelos, delicious Majorcan doughnuts.
For Beach Bums
If your ideal holiday involves lying in the sand, soaking up the sun’s rays and listening to the melodic lapping of the waves… you’re in the right place. Mallorca is famous for its beaches, and Playa de Muro is no exception. With a backdrop of sand dunes and pine trees, the local beach provides the perfect location to literally kick back and relax.
Those seeking a quieter beach can head towards Ca’n Picafort for extra serenity. Just don’t forget to apply your sun cream before you doze off!
For Foodies
Food connoisseurs, prepare to be spoiled by Playa de Muro’s mix of mouth-watering local cuisine and spicy Spanish favourites. Specialities include paella, tapas and barbecued fish, and if you’re unsure of where to go, head towards the water for some great beachfront dining options.
La Playa Chill Out Restaurant
Really dine like a local at this restaurant, where residents gather (usually on Sundays), for a large helping of paella. This beach-facing locale often has local Spanish flamenco entertainment as well.
Some other cuisines you should try here:
- Majorcan lobster
- Pork in port wine
- Wasabi ice cream
Los Patos Restaurant
This place has a reputation in the area for serving the best Majorcan-style food. Be sure to brush up on your language skills before you arrive, since the menu is Spanish-only!
Don’t miss out on these Spanish delicacies:
- Fiduea – Seafood paella that swaps traditional rice for noodles
- Tumbet – Traditional dish of aubergines and Manchego cheese
Top Tip: Make sure you get to this restaurant before 9:30pm, when the locals arrive for dinner and it really starts to get crowded.
For Culture Lovers
Travellers seeking a little rhythm should check out the music scene on the Las Gaviotas strip. The British pubs in this area often host local music nights and you never know when you’ll be surprised with some authentic flamenco entertainment.
Top Tip: If you head to the Las Gaviotas strip, keep an eye out for the German Kenny Rogers impersonator!
For Nature Lovers
If you enjoy bird-watching or just strolling through beautiful ecosystems, add S’Albufera Park to the top of your list. This national park is home to over 200 species of birds, plus other local plants and animals.
Best of all, this nature park is free to all visitors – just pick up a permit when you go through the reception area.
For Kids
The annual duck fiesta at Ca’n Picafort promises to keep even the fussiest of kids entertained. Beginning at noon in front of the Hotel Sol Y Mar, this duck-catching festival draws thousands of visitors to the area every summer.
Watch as people jump into the sea to grab as many plastic ducks as they can – or of course, dive in yourself! Animal-lovers, fear not: using real ducks for this event was outlawed many years ago, so today the sea gets filled with yellow rubber duckies instead.
Where to Stay
TUI FAMILY LIFE Alcudia Pins – This three-star hotel offers family rooms, a great view of the beach from the terrace and a hot tub for relaxing. For even more family fun, check out the outdoor pool, ping-pong table and playground. The front desk is open 24 hours for assistance at any point during your stay.
Iberostar Albufera Playa – This stylish and clean hotel is situated on Playa de Muro’s beach, inside the S’Albufera National Park. With all the modern conveniences you’d look for in a hotel, Iberostar Albufera Playa also offers a tennis court, sauna and gym for its guests. The in-house spa for massages and facials is a sweet addition.
How to Get There
Flights to Mallorca from the UK are inexpensive and plentiful. Once you arrive at the Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), you’ll need to have arranged a Mallorca airport transfer to take you the rest of the way to Playa de Muro. There are several options available for taxis and shuttles from the airport.
I recommend booking your Mallorca airport transfer with Shuttle Direct. Their easy-to-use services can be booked in advance to take you directly to your accommodation or any other location in Playa de Muro upon your arrival in Mallorca.
Overview
- UK to PMI Flight Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- PMI to Playa de Muro Distance: 66 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 48 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is one of Europe’s leading providers of airport shuttle services. We offer a variety of transport options to take travellers to and from airports, hotels, train stations and more. Book in advance via our easily navigable website and let our drivers help you start your holiday in style.