Baby boomers, have you traveled to Majorca? Although I’m aware that it’s a port stop on many luxury cruises in the Mediterranean, that’s the extent of my knowledge about Spain’s largest island. Let’s educate ourselves with today’s guest post from Majorca expert, Ross Fraser.
When thinking of Majorca, baby boomers would be forgiven for immediately picturing busloads of tourists enjoying cheap drinks while getting burned in the midday sun. The reality is far far from it. Although the south of the island has a number of very busy package holiday resorts, the north is host to absolutely stunning and largely unspoiled towns that have kept their historical charm but still offer everything you could want on a boomer holiday.
One of north Majorca’s prettiest resorts, set into a horseshoe bay, is Puerto Pollensa. Not only is it visually stunning, but Puerto Pollensa also features a wealth of holiday activities that will satisfy even the most active baby boomer.
Puerto Pollensa was once a small fishing village, but with the boom in island tourism over the last 50 years, it has grown into a popular holiday resort, while still maintaining its original charm and character.
The town has 2 beaches — the beach to the left (the pine walk area) is a beach for relaxing and chilling out. Take a book with you and sit under one of the old pine walk trees, which is where the area got its name. The beach to the right of the resort is flat with fairly shallow water, making it the ideal place for a number of water sports such as snorkeling, jet skiing, sailing and windsurfing.
Scuba diving is also a favorite because of the clear waters and many underwater caves to explore. Scuba Mallorca offers friendly and professional advice. Or, charter a boat from Tudor Dawn Charters; while the crew does the hard work, boomers will enjoy a scenic day trip around the bay and beyond.
Cycling is another popular activity with trails leading to the island’s 4,000 feet cliffs, views of the ocean, 3,000-year-old burial caves, and bird watching areas with numerous species of migratory birds. If you have the energy, try cycling on the Formentor road. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views out to sea.
Walkers enjoy many touring choices, especially in the nearby Boquer Valley where a path through an old farmhouse area leads to a fork in the track. The left one travels down to a cove where you can take a swim, and the right one directs you to a headland with views of the bay. But be careful with the latter choice as there are sheer cliff faces directly ahead of you. Also, take plenty of water so that you won’t become dehydrated. Baby boomers looking for an easier walk should try the mountain trek to nearby Cala San Vicente, which takes a couple of hours. After reaching the town, enjoy lunch before boarding the public bus back to Puerto Pollensa.
Other walking tours include the Old Town, seeing a Roman stone bridge at the northern end of town, visiting the Museo de Pollenca with its collection of archeological artifacts and Gothic paintings, or strolling on the Place Major.
The Sunday market where merchants sell jewelry, straw baskets, textiles, art, and other merchandise is a fun experience. If you are feeling extremely energetic, climb the 365 Calvari steps which lead to a small church at the top of the town, be warned it is a steep walk!
Baby boomer golfers will enjoy the wide range of 18 hole golf courses available on Majorca. Pollensa has a wonderful golf course which is open to the public.
Cultural events include the International Music Festival, held in July and August, so popular that it requires advanced booking. There are also many fiestas throughout the year, some of which re-enact battles such as the one between the Christians and 15,000 Moors in 1550. Another involves the townspeople cutting down a pine tree in the valley which is carried to the town center and greased before the young men try to climb it.
For lodging, consider the Miramar Hotel, located on the water front looking out onto Pollensa bay. Although it is the oldest running hotel in Puerto Pollensa, the facility is first class. Founded in 1912 by Antonio and Francisca Martínez Borrás, the fourth generation of the family still maintains the same friendly atmosphere; in fact, you’ll often find them chatting with guests. The food is fabulous, and the hotel is kept spotlessly clean. All rooms are air conditioned, some include balconies overlooking the sea. A terrace area provides free sun beds, or pick your spot on the beach front.
