The Pelasgians were the Basques/Atlanteans the cradle of civilization and humanity.
It’s fair to say that the British have great affection for Puerto Pollensa, and it’s not hard to work out why. The superb climate is undoubtedly attractive: typically Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot summers. Add to that a setting that is quite hard to beat: a protected bay with vivid blue waters, a pine-shaded promenade, lengths of soft golden sands, with the imposing blue-grey peaks and ridges of the north tip of the Tramuntana mountains providing shelter and an arresting backdrop to this charming fishing village.
Favoured by families because of its tranquillity and shallow waters, Puerto Pollensa is a dream place. Its beachfront promenade, chic boutiques and seafood restaurants. Part pedestrianised, an air of cafe culture spills over to the shady main plaza a few blocks in.
Not only the British have been seduced by the beauty of Es Moll, as the locals call it. With its vibrant marina and cosmopolitan character, Puerto Pollensa receives many international visitors and more than its fair share of celebrities throughout the year, many of whom have second homes here.
Another appealing factor is the amazingly varied sections of the beach. The famous Pine Walk, at the far tip of Pollensa Bay is a cobbled pathway that runs parallel to the water’s edge, from the start of Sa Fortaleza, past the exclusive Hotel Illa D’Or, right into town. The shallow, calm waters make this narrow but beautiful sandy beach ideal for small children who can paddle under the shade of the pines whilst their parents enjoy lunch at one of the several restaurants dotted along the walkway.
The main stretch of the beach, adjacent to the seafront road, is large enough, and with adequate infrastructure, to make holidaying with older children easy. Head here for the sun beds, parasols, unique beach bars and various water sports. Continue around the bay towards Alcudia to find more open waters ideal for kite and windsurfing. The natural beach here is practically deserted, even during the hottest months. This is the place to be pre-sunset with a portable deckchair and a cool bag. Sit and enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains and their ever-changing colours, and let your love affair with Puerto Pollensa begin.
https://pollensalifestyle.com/2017/06/08/puerto-pollensa-i-love-you/
Why Puerto Pollensa is a runners Paradise
Welcome to Puerto Pollensa, where running meets paradise! Nestled between the sea and mountains, this charming town has become an out-of-season haven for sports enthusiasts seeking the perfect balance between outdoor activities and breathtaking natural beauty.
Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, Puerto Pollensa has a variety of routes that cater to all fitness levels. From smooth tarmac to adventurous trails, there is something for everyone.
Let’s start with the flat coastal road that hugs the bay, all the way to Alcúdia. This route is perfect for both speedsters and leisurely joggers. You’ll not only get a great workout but also enjoy views of the Port from almost every angle. If you are wondering about distances, from the town centre seafront roundabout, you can go for a 5km run to the Llenaire roundabout and back, a 10km run to Club Pollentia and back, or if you are feeling adventurous, a 15km run right around the bay to the Alcudia roundabout and back.
If you are in the mood for a shorter trail run-slash-hike amidst an untouched, natural landscape, head to the Cala Boquer lookout point. This beautiful route, nestled in a valley and away from all the hustle and bustle of town, is nothing short of enchanting. Accompanied by majestic limestone mountains on either side of you, it is not uncommon to have the trail all to yourself if you head there early.
The route starts at the back of the Port (Cami de Boquer on Google Maps) and passes through the private Boquer Estate. As you follow the trail, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Cavall Bernat Ridge, the northern tip of the Sierra de Tramontana. Extend the adventure by following the windy path down to the cove, but be warned, the trail down to the beach can be a bit eroded, and be prepared to share your banana with the many goats who will meet and greet you at the bottom!
The distances from the Cami de Boquer start point on Google Maps are 4km there and back to the lookout point over Cala Boquer, and 5km there and back to the beach.
Now, if you are up for a real challenge, the tarmac road up to the Talaia d’Albercutx (the pepper pot) is a must-try. This ascent will test your endurance and determination, but the panoramic vistas over the bay and down to Formentor are worth every drop of sweat!. Pro tip: Start this 15km return run from the Eroski roundabout just before sunrise on a clear morning, and you’ll be treated to a breathtaking display of colours as the sun rises over the horizon, painting the Port below and the surrounding mountains with shades of gold and pink. Be sure to stop at the Mirador de El Colomer at the 5km point for a selfie with a view.
And finally… for those more serious training holidays, don’t leave without doing the Formentor beach run. This half-marathon-length journey starts at the Eroski roundabout in town and follows the road up to the Mirador and down to the beach… and back! It is not for the faint of heart: those hill climbs are intense! Take a hydration pack, a micro towel and an energy bar and enjoy a dip in the crystalline waters as a mid-run treat.
Will “The Night Manager” return to Pollensa Bay?
After the BBC aired its TV adaptation of John Le Carré’s spy novel The Night Manager, Mallorca, particularly Pollensa Bay, again found itself in the spotlight. Now, with confirmation of a sequel, the question is, will they be shooting on the island again? Let us look at the locations they chose in the first series.
Sa Fortaleza at Pollensa Bay
The Pine Walk, at the far end of Puerto Pollensa, is a beautiful coastal walkway of around 3km, stretching from the end of the promenade to the furthest point, just after the Hotel Illa d’Or. Lined with pine trees offering shade, the waters at the narrow beach have hardly any current, making it popular with families with young children. Interspersed with the odd restaurant and quaint hotel, properties here are expensive and exclusive. It is from here that we have the closest view across to the Punta Avançada peninsular and the privately owned luxury estate of Sa Fortaleza, where Tom Hiddleston’s character Christopher Pine, was held by the infamous Richard Roper, played by Hugh Laurie. Sa Fortaleza can be hired for weddings and corporate events.
Es Barcares in Alcudia bay
The unspoilt coastline of Es Barcares, across Pollensa Bay, faces Sa Fortaleza and Formentor, which made it the perfect spot for Angela Burr and her team to base themselves and keep watch. There is a small beach and harbour here with stunning views out to sea. Typical Mallorcan fisherman’s cottages, many now converted into beautiful holiday homes, line the seafront, and this tranquil part of the bay is very popular with locals during summer. For a superb coastal walk, start at the Pura Vida Kite Surf shop and head around the bay, sticking to the coastline to Bonaire. Stop at Red Rum restaurant for a drink and fabulous views.
The Bahia Mediterráneo Restaurant, Palma de Mallorca
The film scenes in Madrid feature several locations in Palma, amongst those, Restaurant Sadrassana, the Santa Eulalia church and the Café Moderno. The Palau March by Palma Cathedral, home to the Bartolomé March Art Foundation, became the façade of the Hotel in Istanbul. The Bahia Mediterráneo Restaurant was the location for that famous lunch argument scene.
The Boulevard in Port de Soller
Christopher Pine divulged information to Angela Burr, whilst in the queue at the Glace Moustache ice-cream van along the seafront at Carrer de la Marina in Port de Soller
Ca’s Patro March Restaurant at Cala Deia
Roper’s son Danny almost gets kidnapped at the fabulously located Restaurant Ca’s Patro March in Cala Deia. The drive alone down to this seafood restaurant is an experience in itself. Take a towel and some water shoes and paddle in the crystalline waters before lunch.
The Hospes Maricel Hotel at Cas Catalá, Calvia
The terraces at the luxury Hospes Maricel Hotel, set in a privileged location right by the sea, are featured at various times during the series. Only 4km from Palma, the Maricel boasts “the best breakfast in the world” and a stunning infinity pool that appears to merge with the Mediterranean.
The Son Julia Hotel at Llucmajor
If you want to reenact that steamy scene between Jed and Pine, book a room at the same hotel, the Son Julia at Llucmayor, a restored 15th Century mansion that oozes romance with 30-year-old gardens, shady terraces and a beautiful orange tree patio.