General Overview
The Northeast has probably the most accessible coastline of all the regions, with the two large horseshoe bays of Pollenca and Alcudia. The long sandy bays are large enough to accommodate the sunbathers and watersports enthusiasts, whilst still leaving pockets of unpopulated areas for those wanting peace and quiet.
This area is also famed for the dramatic Formentor peninsular whose steep craggy coastline provides breathtaking views and challenging roads. There are viewpoints dotted along the windy road and there’s also long sandy beach backed by pine trees at the far end.
The old towns of Pollenca and Alcudia are both charming places to visit and stay. Both are about 5km from the coast and therefore easy to access good beaches as well as the eastern Tramuntana mountains.
Towns & Villages
Pollenca sits at the eastern end of the Tramuntana mountain range where the terrain turns into coastal flatland. This is an ancient town where a maze of pleasant narrow streets leads to a vast main square full of tasteful café and restaurant terraces. North of the main square is the impressive Calvary Hill, 365 stone steps lined with cypress trees leading to a hilltop pilgrimage chapel. The views from the top look out across the town towards the coast and are certainly worth the hike!
Port de Pollenca is an attractive, laid back resort on a sweeping horseshoe bay. The bay has a long sandy beach to the south, a picturesque harbour in the centre and a pleasant pine walk to the north. The Port is relatively quiet and has a more refined atmosphere than a typical resort.
Alcudia, located five kilometres inland, the historical walled town is very different from its sister port. The one time capital of Mallorca has one of the most picture postcard town centres with its restored stone houses and pretty cobbled streets. The main square is the hub of activity with restaurants and cafes (and the odd souvenir shop!).
The small secluded resort of Cala Sant Vicenc sits in the north east corner of the island. It is a relaxed place with two sheltered sandy bays and a rocky cove set against a rugged cliff backdrop. Surrounding the bays is a mix of hotels, restaurants and shops offering everything for a chilled out beach break!
For breathtaking scenery head towards Cap de Formentor. Once the winding roads have been navigated there are several viewpoints from which to admire the dramatic coastline. Further along is the exclusive Hotel Formentor sitting above one of the islands best beaches – a long stretch of golden sandy beach shaded by pine trees. The final stretch of the coastal road offers more impressive views not least at the lighthouse found at the end of the peninsular.
Favourite Beaches
Alcudia and Pollenca bays have long sandy stretches which lead into the shallow waters. Platja Muro is part of Alcudia Bay but offers a quieter alternative to the main resort areas. The long pine backed sandy beach at Formentor is a great place to enjoy the turquoise water. The charming sandy coves at the low key resort of Cala Sant Vicenc are good places to relax, and if they get a bit busy head further on to the rocky cove nearby.