Port de Pollença

Port de Pollença, nestled in the picturesque northern reaches of Majorca on the Bay of Pollença, is a small town that encapsulates the rich tapestry of history and the natural beauty of the Balearic Islands. Just a stone’s throw away from Pollença and Cala Sant Vicenç, this charming town is a gateway to the majestic Cap de Formentor, connected via a scenic 13.5 km road.

As the most northerly settlement in Majorca, Port de Pollença is divided into several distinctive neighborhoods, including Pine Walk, Boquer, Central, Siller, Pinaret, Llenaire, and Gotmar. One notable feature of the area is the historical Boquer Valley, which stretches toward the northeast and houses the remnants of Bocchoris, one of Majorca’s oldest pre-Roman cities, offering a glimpse into the island’s ancient past.

The iconic Pine Walk, famed for its tranquil seaside promenade, provides a sheltered coastal path lined with a variety of features, such as a bronze tribute to the renowned artist Hermenegildo Anglada Camarasa. Towards its end lies an air base established during the Spanish Civil War, once a hub for the German Condor Legion’s Seefliegerstaffel aircraft, now serving NATO military personnel and featuring amphibious firefighting aircraft.

In the bustling heart of the town—Central Port de Pollença—the Plaça Miguel Capllonch epitomizes local culture and community. This vibrant square, with its memorial to composer Miquel Capllonch Rotger, is surrounded by aromatic eateries and lively markets held every Wednesday, reminiscent of the town’s traditional mercantile roots.

To the south, the landscape transitions into residential areas like Urban El Pinaret, Urban Gotmar and Urban Llenaire. These neighborhoods are predominantly residential, with family-friendly beaches providing leisurely swimming, watersports, and seaside strolls.

Port de Pollença has long been a muse for creative minds and cultural icons. Artists such as Hermenegildo Anglada Camarasa and Atilio Boveri, whose works adorn the Museum of Pollença, were drawn to its allure. Literary figures, including Rubén Darío and Nobel laureate Mario Vargas Llosa, found inspiration in its serene surroundings. Agatha Christie immortalized the charm of the Pine Walk in her writings after staying in the area, and the musical heritage of the town is captured in Marilina Ross’s evocative song "Puerto Pollensa," celebrated as a formative anthem in Argentina.

Encompassing a mix of golden beaches, historic intrigue, and artistic significance, Port de Pollença stands as a testament to Majorca’s enduring appeal, beckoning travelers and history enthusiasts to explore its many layers.

Photo: Anna & Michal