Situated in the north of the island, at the eastern end of the Tramuntana mountains, Pollensa is a charming historic town with winding streets and a traditional main square. Surrounded by dramatic natural scenery, it is neighboured by its eponymous port, Port de Pollensa, which is just a few kilometres north. Blessed with beautiful beaches, a rich cultural scene and a wide selection of bars, cafés and restaurants, the area is a highly desirable residential location with a plethora of incredible villas, fincas and houses available. Secluded enough to feel like a peaceful paradise yet well-connected with a thriving sense of community, Pollensa is a dream come true.
Living in Pollensa
Pollensa is a magnetic spot for native Mallorcans and cosmopolitan crowds alike; a truly authentic experience in a vibrant expat community. Oozing character, this rural town is tucked away in the hills and locals while away lazy Sunday mornings in the cafés on Plaça Major, which dates back to the nineteenth century. You can also browse the weekly market that features an array of artisanal stalls and mountains of fresh local produce like marinated olives, sweet honey and ripe seasonal fruits.
A former Roman base and Moorish settlement, Pollensa is steeped in history. Established as an agricultural area, the town was deliberately built away from the coast to avoid pirate attacks. More recently, artists have been drawn to this part of the island, enchanted by the magnificent quality of the light and its ease of reach, just 45 minutes drive from Palma airport.
Real estate in Pollensa
Engel and Völkers' property portfolio for this area is diverse and you will be spoilt for choice. Would you rather a rustic townhouse in the centre of town, or a luxurious villa or idyllic finca in the lush surrounding countryside? A modern apartment or penthouse in a top location beside the sea in Puerto Pollensa and Cala San Vicente might be more to your taste? Whatever your desire, we will help you to explore the region's range of properties to find the perfect home that suits your needs.
What to do and where to eat
Pollensa is a treasure trove of delights. A cultural hotspot, the town hosts many traditional fiestas throughout the year, most famously the Moors and Christians Festival in early August. A powerful and poignant re-enactment of the famous battle in 1550, locals and visitors flock to the town in costume to dance, drink and celebrate.
If you prefer a quieter moment, find solace on a hike up the mountain known as the Puig on the outskirts of town. During the 330 metre climb, you will pass a chapel, and defence wall built to protect the area from pirates. At the peak, the views are staggeringly beautiful and humbling.
The quintessential Mallorcan fabric, known as llengües, is a common soft furnishing in homes around the island. Visit one of the few remaining workshops, such as Teixits Vicens which is situated between Pollensa and Puerto de Pollensa where this traditional, iconic fabric is woven. You could also pop into the hand-crafted leather shoe shops and bodegas in the area.
In terms of gastronomy, Pollensa offers an eclectic mix of great restaurants. In the town’s main square, the grand French-Italian ‘Il Giardini’ is warm and welcoming with an excellent menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. On the other side of town, the charming and characterful ‘Celler El Moli’ is renowned for its superb home-cooked Mallorcan dishes and its location, set in an old flour mill. With an à la carte menu and tapas, you could try the deliciously tender lamb or for pescatarians, a seafood paella. For an unforgettable fine-dining experience, book a table at the ‘365 Son Brull’ restaurant which is also a five-star hotel and spa housed in a building that was once an Arabic farmhouse before it became a monastery. Perfect for romantic dinners and gastronomic connoisseurs, the restaurant grows its own organic produce which is then translated into subtle, simple dishes that are innovative and delicious. Sample the island’s offerings on a plate in the form of a tasting menu paired with Mallorcan wines. Alternatively, the à la carte features creamy Tramuntana cheese to start, followed by locally-bred suckling pig and goat’s milk yoghurt ice cream with sweet Son Brull honey for dessert - a taste sensation.
If you dream of living amidst nature, in a traditional town or by the coast, Pollensa and its surroundings may well be the perfect area for you! Engel & Völkers is ready to assist you in your search for your ideal property.
