There are few places on earth better equipped for tourism than Mallorca. This little gem of the Mediterranean welcomes almost three million Britons every year, and continues to grow in popularity. While resorts such as Magaluf and S’Arenal struggle to keep the crowds at bay, Mallorca manages to provide quite a peaceful atmosphere despite the increasing influx of tourists. Those looking for moments of pure relaxation are encouraged to head to Alcúdia, a destination located on a sweeping bay in the northeast of the island.
The streets within the medieval walls are home to a myriad of attractions, catering particularly to foodies. The island’s best produce arrives twice a week to the city’s market, and chefs from Spain, the UK and further afield come to create magical dishes with these exceptional ingredients.
To whet your appetite, here’s a quick rundown of the foodie attractions on show in Alcúdia.
The Market
The obvious place to start. There’s plenty here besides food, with a night market selling local handicrafts and artisanal souvenirs, but despite this abundance of interesting products, the cuisine is still the main attraction.
Delicacies You Really Shouldn’t Miss
- Ensaïmada: A traditional Mallorcan pastry not unlike a croissant, typically served with a dusting of icing sugar.
- Hierbas: A digestif made with fennel, herbs and spices. These are often available in either dry, medium or sweet varieties.
- Also on offer are a very reasonable selection of Mallorcan wines from in and around Binissalem and Santa Maria del Cami.
Top Tip: If you fancy a closer look at the vineyards themselves, the main road from Alcúdia to Palma goes right through the wine-growing region. Tours are available from either town – ask at your hotel.
‘The Wine Side’ Bar and Tapas
Alcúdia’s finest wine bar provides a classy, relaxed setting in which to enjoy the specialities: small plates consisting of only the finest local ingredients, and excellent regional wines. The clean white tiles and wooded décor showcase the precision when it comes to style and presentation. Those looking for a sophisticated place to dine need look no further.
Local seafood is the order of the day, with lobster, langoustines, prawns and mullet prepared with utmost precision. There isn’t a set menu since the chefs prefer to change things up each time they feel newly inspired.
Top Tip: I’d be inclined to book in advance here. Word has spread about the quality of this Bar and Tapas Restaurant, and during the tourist season, seats can be hard to find. If you can’t eat at the restaurant, keep an eye out for the Wine Side’s Food Truck in the Port d’Alcúdia.
Restaurant Miramar
More towards the upmarket end of things and looking out over the rippling blue of the Mediterranean, the Restaurant Miramar serves delicious Mallorcan and Galician food. Established in 1871, Miramar was constructed in an enviable position on the coast in order to have the first pick of the freshest seafood. There’s no better place if you’re looking for a fresh fish dish.
The view from the terrace overlooking the marina is something that will stay with you for a long, long while. This restaurant is often booked for special occasions – so be sure to grab a table sooner rather than later.
Top Tip: The seafood jumps off the page when you’re reading the menu, but look beyond this and you’ll find fantastic steaks are also available to sink your teeth into. The lemon sorbet is another personal favourite…
Bodega d’es Port
Not too far from the Miramar is another of Alcúdia’s most well-established eateries, with a nautical theme and an excellent selection of seafood dishes. The terrace offers a fine view, and the menu covers everything from tapas and paella to barbecued meats and some delicious local desserts.
You’ll find set menus daily, and groups of any size can be catered for if you give the staff a call. If it’s just the two of you though, the ambience will still make for a special evening.
Where to Stay
PortBlue Club Pollentia Resort & Spa – Right on the coast and just 5km from the town of Alcúdia, this charming and well-equipped four-star resort combines excellent amenities (including tennis courts, three pools and a water sports centre) with an equally brilliant level of service. Onsite bars and restaurants offer some exquisite local cuisine.
FORUM – Boutique Hotel & Spa – This hotel places less emphasis on the water and more on the land, with great hiking and cycling trails located nearby. Bikes are available for hire at the hotel. Enjoy the wonderful buffet breakfast each morning, and later in the day sample the freshly prepared produce from the room service menu. Some rooms have their own balconies, which are perfect for those looking to sit back and enjoy the beautiful surroundings before exploring the town.
How to Get There
Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is one of the best-served in the area, with ten airlines running year-round flights from most UK airports. A flight from London to Alcúdia takes just over two hours, and can be relatively cheap with a budget flight if you time it right. For something a little more comfortable, you’ll have no shortage of options with the national carriers.
You’re best to book your transfers beforehand, as the airport can be a little confusing unless you know where you’re going. Book with Shuttle Direct for professional service and quick transfer from door-to-door.
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