The island’s north is crowned by the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, which rise dramatically over the Mediterranean Sea. Its coastal road winds past spectacular views and picturesque towns, and it goes without saying that Mallorca’s most rugged and wild region is one of its greatest highlights. Here are four of our favourite places to visit in the north.
Villages in the North of Mallorca
Pollensa: a quintessentially Mallorcan town
Framed by the UNESCO World Heritage mountains, this medieval town dates back to the thirteenth century. It was built inland to avoid pirate attacks and has a coastal counterpart, Puerto de Pollensa, located a few kilometres away. In the town itself, lovely sandstone houses line the narrow, winding streets that open onto Plaza Major, where cafés, restaurants and a beautiful Baroque-style church create a vibrant ambience.
The weekly market and festive celebrations are held here throughout the year. It’s easy to spend hours wandering around this elegant town and its chic boutiques, galleries and museums showcasing local culture and craft.
Alcúdia: where history meets the Mediterranean
Like Pollensa, Alcúdia has a historic inland town and a port. Steeped in history, the Old Town is made up of dreamy 16th-century buildings and surrounded by walls that are a restored version of the original defence system.
Every Tuesday and Sunday market, one of the island’s largest markets takes place here, which is a great opportunity to explore traditional delicacies. Out of town, the Alcúdia peninsula draws visitors keen to enjoy its beaches, hike its trails and admire the sweeping views across Mallorca’s northern coast.
Artà: where art and culture unite
This ancient hill town in the northeast feels far from anywhere, which is part of its charm. It is fringed by the Serra de Llevant mountains, which form a dramatic backdrop. The town itself is historical and laid-back with a distinctly bohemian feel and galleries on every corner. Every Tuesday, there’s a lively market in the centre of town, selling food, crafts and textiles.
And like the other traditional towns, its heart is a complex maze of winding streets revealing hidden cafés, restaurants and pretty terraces. Don’t miss the climb to Sant Salvador Sanctuary for wonderful views across Es Pla, the island’s flat central plain.
Capdepera: medieval mayhem in May
Just eight kilometres east of Artà, this small village is enclosed by walls built in the 14th century by King Sancho of Mallorca to ward off pirates. Inside, there is a quaint main square and a fortress. During the third week of May, a medieval market takes over, where locals dress up as knights and snake charmers while fire-eaters roam the streets.
We hope you’ve enjoyed your whistle-stop tour of Mallorca’s northern towns and villages. We hope you’ll visit us again soon to really soak up the island’s charm.