Alcudia

Vineyards

There are several vineyards in Mallorca with the majority around the town of Binisalem, south of Inca. Nearest to Pollensa there are vineyards in Petra and Muro as well as Santa Margalida, however there is also a vineyard close to Pollensa itself that is rapidly growing in popularity - Ca'n Vidalet - which is located in the countryside between the old town and Puerto Pollensa.

Cruises

Many boat trips are available from the Port of Alcudia where there is even a ferry to Menorca. Nearby Puerto Pollensa also offers regular boat trips to the Formentor peninsular where there is a great family beach and some extraordinary viewpoints.

Local sporting events

There is a sports centre in Port De Alcudia with many facilities whilst in Palma the Spanish 2nd division side RCD Mallorca play at the Son Moix stadium.

Tennis tournaments are regularly held in Palma.

Golf open senior will be played on the Pula Golf course at Son Servera in May.

Natural areas of beauty

Drive up the mountain road to the headland of Formentor where there is a wonderful view point and the lighthouse at Cap de Formentor where there is also a welcoming café.

Visit, and take a walk through, the S'Albufeira nature reserve - near Alcudia - wetlands full of bird and wildlife. A haven for nature lovers.

Water Parks

There are 3 waterparks on the island with the Hidropark, Alcudia being the nearest to Alcudia, Puerto Pollensa and Pollensa. The Hidropark offers a wide range of slides ranging from the gentle to the hair raising and there are lost of sunbathing areas for those less inclined to hurl themselves down a giant tube!

Regions to visit

Take the local bus or drive around the bay to Puerto Pollensa, a popular beach resort or inland to Pollensa town itself.

Visit Palma - the majestic capital, full of history and culture and no shortage of shops, restaurants and cafés.

Take a short boat trip to Cabrera - a tiny island off the south east coast inhabited mostly by rabbits.

Go subterranean in the Caves of Drach - Las Cuevas del Drach - the most famous caves in Mallorca and enjoy classical music played by floating musicians on the atmospheric, lantern lit, underground lake.

Take a mountain road drive to Valdemossa - home of Chopin and George Sands, and visit the nearby Soller & Port de Soller.

Or take the orange grove "express" - a slow and gentle train ride from Palma to Soller through the mountains and Orange groves and experience the wonderful scents of orange blossom on the way.

The old town

The old town of Alcudia dates back to 2000 bc but came to prominence in 2 BC when it was a walled citadel built by the Roman invaders, to protect the north from corsairs and pirates. Originally named by the Romans as Pollentia, meaning "power" the modern name, Alcudia, derives from the name given by the conquering Moors - Alkudia - meaning town on the hill. The old walls were rebuilt in the 14th century after the Spanish re-conquest and still exist in remarkably good condition, surrounding cobbled streets with a multitude of cafés, restaurants and boutique shops. There is a very good market here held on Tuesday and on Sundays. The impressive entrance to the town is the Portal de Moll - two stone towers guarded by ancient palm trees - that also forms the symbol of the town.

Museums

Artefacts from the Roman remains can be found in the Museu Monografic de Pollentia, close to the parish church.
The local tourist office also offers guided tours of the historical quarter.

Churches / Cathedrals

The 14th century church of Sant Jaume is in the centre of the town whilst on the outskirts you can find the Orator de Santa Anna.

Architecture

There are many reminders of the towns history to be explored including the Roman remains of the theatre, the forum and the residential area of La Portella.

The town walls are in excellent condition and look out for the 14th century architecture of Ca'n Torro library, a former mansion that holds regular exhibitions and performances.