Mallorca, once referred to as the jewel of the Mediterranean, has probably
been one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations over the past thirty
five years. Within a little over two hours flying time from the UK, Mallorca
enjoys an average yearly temperature of 18.7 degrees and almost 3000 hours
of sunshine annually. The Island of Mallorca covers and area of 3640 square kilometres, which
encompasses white sandy beaches, a coastline of 555km, impressive mountains
the highest point being Puig Major at 1432metres, charming hamlets, fishing
villages, friendly people and above all a relaxing atmosphere. A place of
enjoyment for all age groups. Around 40% of Mallorca’s surface area is
protected territory, including the nature reserves of S’Albufera, sa
Dragonera and Mondrago, as well as the maritime National Park of Cabrera.
Many ancient civilisations have come to visit Mallorcan therefore the
cuisine offers a taste of all the cultures that have shaped its personality.
Why not try the typical regional creations such as Tumbet (Mallorcan
version of ratatouille), Trempó (Mediterranean salad with
tomatos, green peppers and onion)
(delicious local version of pizza), Panades (meat and/or vegetable pie), Cocarrois (folded vegetable pie), Frit
(fried pork, lamb or seafood with vegetable and herbs), Arròs Brut
(rice soup with assorted meats and vegetables), Sopes
Mallorquines (casserole with brown bread topped with pork and
vegetables), Escudella Fresca (vegetable soup), Fava
Parada (lime beans soup), Conill amb Seba (stewed
rabbit with onion), Porcella Rostida (roast suckling pig),
Braç de Mérostit (roast lamb shoulder) or Escaldums
(chicken stew) to name just a few. Not forgetting the host of Mediterranean
fish dishes. For meat lovers the popular products are Sobrasada
(red spicy sausage) and the tasty Botifarrons (black
sausage). The best places to find typical Mallorcan dishes are the
restaurants called Cellers. To compliment the food, Mallorca
has a deep-rooted winemaking tradition. A growing number of interesting
vineyards (Binissalem, Felanitx, Petra, Porreres, Artá and lately Pollensa)
produce high quality wines, especially red and rosé. As to local spirits,
the two most well known drinks are an aperitif called Palo
(black and sweet) and a liqueur known as Herbes (dry,
medium or sweet).
For the sporting enthusiast, Mallorca offers an array of open air
options. As an island, water activities naturally are high on the list,
which include sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and game fishing. Also
Mallorca now has a choice of twenty courses with Pollenca Golf being within
short drive of many of our villas. Aerial activities from hang gliding and
skydiving to flying ultra-lights are also available for the enthusiast. For
those who prefer to remain on terra firma, trekking, mountain climbing,
hiking, cycling or just plain walking are many of the choices on offer to
the Mallorca visitor.
Pollenca
Described as the prettiest town in the north west of Mallorca
(sometimes written Pollensa) has been little affected by the major tourist
developments nearby and is often used as a base for exploring the region.
The labyrinthine of streets – most of them devoid of pavements – are
almost the only remaining traces of the medieval town. Most of the houses
date from the 17th and 18th centuries. The town square which hosts many
bars and restaurants is dominated by the huge Nostra Senyora church
originating from the 13th century. Pollenca is recognised as a good town
for shops and restaurants and on Sundays there is a food and crafts
market. For art lovers, musicians, walkers, food and wine tasters,
Pollenca has much to offer.
Puerto Pollenca
The Port of Pollenca, or Puerto Pollenca, where many of our villas are
situated, is approximately three miles to the east of Pollenca town with
the Bay of Pollenca stretching for about two miles. With its long sandy
beach, a range of shops and restaurants, which include Chinese, Japanese
and Indian, makes this a comprehensive holiday resort. For the more active
sports enthusiast, scuba diving, windsurfing, sailing, yacht charters and
bike rental are amongst the many activities on offer. Pollenca has
remained a popular choice for many family holidaymakers who return again
and again to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and friendliness of the people.
Cala San Vicente
Cala San Vicente is a small quiet resort two and a half miles off the
road between Pollenca and Puerto Pollenca. With two small beaches, a
number of bars and restaurants, this resort is for those looking for the
quieter holiday. Walking is a popular pastime with many Cala San Vicente
holidaymakers. Regular bus services operate to Pollenca or car hire which
is highly recommended may be pre-booked in advance. Many of our villas in
Mallorca include car hire for summer 2010.
Formentor
Formentor
is about half an hours drive from Puerto Pollenca. A steep climbing road
takes you to Mallorca’s most northerly point, Cap de Formentor with its
superb panoramic views. Preservation of Formentor from large scale tourist
development has been a continuing policy over many years which has
resulted in flourishing wildlife. Built in 1928 the well known Hotel
Formentor has hosted many celebrities and famous people including Winston
Churchill, The Duke of Windsor, Elizabeth Taylor and Gary Cooper, to
name but a few. For our part we feature two unique villas situated within
400 metres of the white sandy beach and crystalline waters but at the same
time are very secluded and offer total privacy.