Pollença

Pollença is the cultural heart of the north coast — a Mallorcan country town that has retained its character despite tourism. There are no hotel complexes, no souvenir miles, just winding alleys of honey-colored sandstone, one of the most beautiful main squares on the island, and a vibrant cultural scene.

The absolute landmark is the 365 steps of Calvari (Puig del Calvari): a long stone staircase lined with cypress trees leads from the center up to a small chapel on the Calvary hill. The ascent takes about 15 minutes and is rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view over the town, the Tramuntana mountains, and the bay of Pollença. Especially beautiful at sunset when the mountains glow golden. On Good Friday, the impressive Davallament procession takes place here — the descent from the cross is reenacted on the steps.

The Plaça Major is the living room of the town: a wide square with plane trees, cafés under arcades, and the parish church Nostra Senyora dels Àngels. Every Sunday, one of the most popular weekly markets in Mallorca takes place here — more local and authentic than the one in Alcúdia. Locals buy vegetables, cheese, Sobrasada, and herbs here, while tourists browse for ceramics, linen fabrics, and olive wood products.

In summer, Pollença transforms into a cultural capital: The Festival de Pollença (July/August) has been bringing classical music, jazz, and world music to the medieval cloister of Sant Domingo since 1962 — a concert experience of the highest class under the open starry sky. Tickets from about 25€.

Not far from the town lies the Monastery Santuari del Puig de Maria (333 m): A short, steep ascent (30 min. from the parking lot) leads to a 14th-century monastery with a simple hostel and one of the best viewpoints in the region. In the small refectory, there is Pa amb Oli (bread with olive oil and tomatoes) and Mallorcan herbal liqueurs.