Read on to discover how to travel to Valldemossa from Puerto Pollensa, what the top top attractions are, locating the best restaurants and more.

Traveling To Valldemossa and Getting Around
Although the distance between Puerto Pollensa and Valldemossa is just 65 kilometers, making the journey does require a little bit of planning due to limited transportation options. If you have a rental car, it will definitely be best to make the drive between the two destinations. Parking is ample in Valldemossa, and you won’t need to pay to park for the day at most locations throughout the town. If you don’t have a car, there are a handful of different options. You can take a bus from Puerto Pollensa to Palma, which is where you will need to switch and take a bus back up to Valldemossa. Depending on the transition time, this journey could take anywhere from 90 minutes to three hours. If you are part of a group traveling together, a better idea might be to book a shuttle in advance or even hire a taxi to bring you to your destination and then pick you up for the return drive. Once you are in Valldemossa, there is no real need for transport. The town is quite small in size, and it is easy to get around on foot.

Touring La Cartuja
The point of most day trips to the area is a chance to tour La Cartuja. The monastery was built in the 14th century by King James II, but the secularization of the church in the 19th century meant that the property was sold to the state. A visit to La Cartuja will let you tour the royal residence, check out the interesting items in the apothecary, and see where the monks once lived. The cathedral and monastery are both open daily, but the hours change between summer and winter. Adults will pay admission fees of 7.50€ per person, but children and students can enjoy reduced entry rates.

Other Attractions in Valldemossa
Although La Cartuja is by far the biggest attraction in Valldemossa, that is not all that you can see in this charming mountain town in Majorca. You will want to visit the small church just a few yards from the big monastery, which is where famed composer Chopin lived and wrote many of his most famous pieces. The musicians there will gladly perform for travelers, and you can enjoy a private recital of Chopin’s works for just a few euros.

Dining and Drinking in Valldemossa
To round out your day trip to Valldemossa, you will definitely want to indulge in some of the delicious local specialties. For  traditional fare in a casual dining room, head to Es Roquissar or Ca’n Mario, which are both frequented by local residents. For a special meal, the nearby Es Port restaurant is upscale and boasts views over the water.

If you have a spare day to explore Majorca, it is definitely worth taking the trip to Valldemossa.

Here is everything you will need to know about organising a wonderful trip from Puerto Pollensa to Soller for the day.

Traveling to and From Soller
There are three main ways to get to Soller. Visitors can arrive by rental car, they can take the train from Palma or they can take a bus. If you are coming directly from Puerto Pollensa, your best option will be to hire a car and drive yourself for the one-hour trip. The bus system between the two towns is affordable, but be sure to check the schedule carefully and verbally confirm with your driver when the return pick-up will be. If you miss your bus for whatever reason, you can catch the train to Palma and then a bus from there to Puerto Pollensa, which will be a journey of about 90 minutes in total.

Outdoor Recreation in Soller
The biggest reason that travelers come to Soller is to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. The town is home to 12,000 people, and it is located right at the base of Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. For the best views of Soller, get outside and get active. You might want to cycle on the Sóller Pass, or you can join a hiking group that walk through the mountains themselves. If you travel just a few miles, you will get to the Port of Soller, which offers yet another beautiful beach for swimming or relaxation.

Best Attractions in the Area
Aside from the outdoor recreation, there is a lot to do and see within the town of Soller itself. Be sure to see the stunning church in the town center, which was built by a student of famed Spanish architect Gaudi. There is also a wonderful and impressive art museum that offers free admission to visitors, and there is no end to the charming cafes and restaurants serving up traditional local cuisine.

Where to Drink and Dine in Soller
With so many options, it can be tough to decide where to stop for lunch. For tasty German fare, stop in at Cafe Sóller, which has been a staple in the town for decades. Other great choices include Bens D’Aval, Calle dela Luna and the formal and upscale restaurant in the Gran Hotel Sóller.

Even if you only have a day, you can see a lot in the town of Soller. Since it is just an hour’s drive from Puerto Pollensa, it makes for the perfect little adventure in Majorca.

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Darrers Dies: Translated as the Last Days, Darrers Dies is essentially Carnival in Majorca. It is celebrated over the last four or five days before Lent begins, and it is a way to indulge, dine, drink and party before the restrictive Christian Lent commences on Ash Wednesday. If you happen to be in one of the smaller villages or even in Palma, you will get to see parades, musical performances, big street parties and lots of local excitement.

Llubi Honey Fair: While this is far from a big festival, it is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to see a traditional and authentic side of Majorcan culture. The honey fair takes place in the small town of Llubi each year on the third weekend of November, and it is a chance for beekeepers to showcase and sell their honey. You can pick up honey souvenirs, taste the local specialties and even buy local arts and crafts made by villagers in and around Llubi.

Revetlla de Sant Antoni: This annual event in Majorca takes place on January 16th. While it is celebrated throughout the island, the centers of the festivities are in the small towns of Manacor, Sant Joan and Sa Pobla, where residents light enormous bonfires. Also called bonfire night by English speakers, Revetlla de Sant Antoni is meant to honor Saint Anthony, a man who is patron saint of rural work. Along with nighttime festivities, this annual event includes local specialties like Espinagades. These pastries are only made once a year, and they are a savory treat made with eel and spinach. If you happen to be in Majorca during January, you must try this delicacy that is found nowhere else on Earth and is available for such a short time each year.

Nic de Foc: The Night of Fire, or Nic de Foc, is held every year on June 23rd in the capital city of Palma. This giant festival commemorates the official start of summer, and most of the events associated with the event take place in the Parc de la Mer. For stunning fireworks and a vibrant nightlife, Palma is definitely the place to be for this midsummer celebration.

Along with these festivals, Majorca is home to dozens of religious events, cultural celebrations, food festivals and more. By attending one, you will have the chance to see a unique side of Majorca that few travelers ever get to experience.

What is Cuevas del Drach?
Cuevas del Drach literally translates from Spanish to English as the Caves of the Dragon. There are four caves in total, and they are known as the Black Cave, the White Cave, the Cave of the French and the Cave of Luis Salvador. Each of the caves are located far underground, and they are connected to one another so that you can explore all four at once without coming back up to the surface. Inside the caves is a stunning body of water called Lake Martel, which is one of the largest underground lakes on the planet.

How Do You Get There?
Getting to Cuevas del Drach is very simple if you have a car. The distance between Puerto Pollensa to the caves is just 30 miles, and the journey takes less than one hour on the major roads. Without a car, it may be harder to arrange transportation. You can easily get a bus to the capital city of Palma de Mallorca and then take a bus from there to the caves. Without a vehicle of your own, it may be worthwhile to book a taxi with a few others and split the costs evenly.

What Information Do I Need?
With the exception of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, Cuevas del Drach is opened daily starting from 10:45 a.m. Keep in mind that the attraction closes at 5:00 p.m. during the winter and at 6:00 p.m. during the warmer summer months. Entrance is €13.50 per person, but that admission includes a spot on a guided tour. Amenities at the caves include free parking, toilets, a cafe and a souvenir shop.

What Can You Do There?
The number one thing to do at the caves is to take the guided tour, which is the only acceptable way to explore the underground attraction. While you are in the caves, there are musical performances that echo in an incredible way that you will never forget. If you have more time, you can enjoy a boat tour right on the underground Lake Martel.

Taking a day trip to the caves of the dragon is a great way to enjoy a part of your holiday in Puerto Pollensa, Mallorca.

Official Website - www.cuevasdeldrach.com/

However, there is lot more to see on the island than just the resort, and a day trip can be the perfect way to explore something new on the island. Here is a basic guide to the capital city of Palma, which is less than one hour by car from Puerto Pollensa.

Getting to Palma
The most common way to get from Puerto Pollensa to Palma is by car. If you have a rental car, the journey will be very simple and should take less than 45 minutes.

There are public buses available as well leaving from the bus station beside the marina which is where buses leave and depart several times per day to the capital. An alternative might be to take a taxi or hire a shuttle, but these will need to be arranged in advance.

Top Historical Landmarks
Once you are in Palma, there is no shortage of incredible landmarks worth a visit. The most famous is Castell de Bellver, a 14th century castle that overlooks the city center of Palma from its location on a hill. Other interesting historical destinations in the city include the Bull Ring, which is a significant part of Spanish and Mallorcan culture, the Banys Àrabs, which are 10th century Arabian spas, and the Catedral de Mallorca, which is an incredible Catholic Cathedral just next to the sea.

Best Attractions
While there are plenty of scenic and historic attractions in Palma, many visitors come specifically for the tourism appeal. You could swim at the beautiful beach Ciudad Jardín, make a splash at the Aqualand waterpark or admire the incredible marine life at the Marineland Aquarium. The Museo de Arte Español Contemporáneo, or Museum of Spanish Contemporary Art, is also a top destination, and it offers free admission to see the famed collection by artists like Picasso and Dali.

Where to Drink and Dine
Even if you only have one day to explore the capital city of Palma de Mallorca, you won’t want to miss out on the incredible authentic cuisine available there. For a quick lunch while sightseeing, try the Pamboli, which is a sandwich made with hearty local bread, olive oil and fresh tomatoes. For dessert, try the Ensaimada, which are rich pastries filled with cream, fruit or even chocolate. If you have time for a drink before you head back, some of the top bars and pubs in Palma include Jah Garden – Reggae Bar and the Cappucino Palau March.

If you have a spare day while on holiday in Puerto Pollensa, heading to Palma is a great way to see some of Mallorca’s best attractions and experience a different side of the island’s culture.

Hotel Can Tem: Travelers who are more concerned with exploring Alcudia’s history and culture than the beach will love Hotel Cam Tem, which is located right in the heart of the Old Town. The building itself is from the 17th century, and it was once the mansion home of a wealthy family from the region. Although Hotel Can Tem is historic, it is far from rustic. Guests will enjoy amenities like free wireless Internet in every room, air conditioning and satellite television. There are only six rooms in Hotel Can Tem, which means that every guests enjoys personalized attention from the hotel owners. Along with your room key, you will get a large key that actually opens the hotel front door and provides access to the inner courtyard, which is the ultimate place to relax and enjoy the nice weather. A traditional Spanish breakfast is served daily in the courtyard, and guests can walk with the host to the large outdoor market if desired. Anyone who wants to get a feel for the traditional side of Alcudia will appreciate Hotel Can Tem.

Hotel Can Simo: This hotel is another traditional Mallorcan manor home, and it dates back to the early 19th century. Since it is located just steps from a major bus station and several local stores, it is perfect for travelers who want to be in the heart of the city and experience life as a local. Each of the seven suites comes equipped with air conditioning, private bathrooms, wireless Internet access, a safety deposit box and satellite television. A few of the rooms have balconies that overlook the bustling streets of the old city below, and one of the larger rooms also boasts a jacuzzi and private access to the rooftop. Every day at Hotel Can Simo starts with a full Mediterranean breakfast buffet with cheeses, fruits, olives, meats and breads. Generally, Hotel Can Simo is considered to be the most romantic of the hotels in Alcudia’s Old Town, but it is still quite affordable.

Hotel Sant Jaume: This hotel is the largest of the accommodation choices right in the heart of Alcudia’s Old Town, but it still retains the charm and history of the other area hotels. Each of the rooms are beautifully decorated with dark polished woods, and much of the work was done by artisans living in the area. When you are not in your room, you can enjoy the views from the balcony, the roaring fireplace in the lobby or the stunning and warm inner courtyard that is reserved just for hotel guests. Just step outside the front door for access to the shops, restaurants and churches that make up the heart of the Old Town, or hop on the bus to head straight to the beach in less than 10 minutes.

Although there are a number of excellent hotels in Alcudia, these traditional and architecturally interesting hotels in the Old Town are some of the best accommodation choices in Majorca.

Hotel Cala Sant Vicenç: Holiday makers who are searching for luxury in Majorca will not be disappointed when staying at the Hotel Cala Sant Vicenç. This upscale hotel has just 38 rooms, but the amenities are similar to that of a much larger resort. Guests will love being just 200 feet from the beach, which allows them the chance to walk straight from their room to the ocean for a swim at any time of day. All of the lavish rooms are decorated with glossy oak and cherry wood, and much of the decor was handmade by local artisans in the region. Guests will also love the outdoor trattoria for meals, the onsite spa, the fully-equipped fitness room and the heated outdoor pool.

Hotel Niu: Those who want to enjoy both proximity to the beach and incredible coastal views will definitely want to consider Hotel Niu. This hotel boasts amenities like a conference centre, complimentary wireless Internet access and multilingual staff, all of which are a big bonus to business travellers  Families, on the other hand, will appreciate the available babysitting services for guests, the accommodating onsite restaurant and the opportunity to step right from the lobby onto the sand of the beach. Enjoy air conditioning in every room, private balconies, helpful concierge staff and even a full 18-hole golf course on the premises.

Hi Don Pedro Hotel: Visitors to Majorca who are on a budget and want comfortable accommodation for the entire family should consider staying at the Hi Don Pedro Hotel, which is located right on the beach in Cala San Vicente. The reason that this hotel is so popular with families is because of the many amenities catered to children. Expect to find a large outdoor pool as well as a smaller one for younger children, babysitting services, a kid’s club that is open seven days a week, a game room with pool and boardgames and complimentary snacks in reception 24 hours a day.

Grupotel Molins: Guests in search of luxury and romance in Cala San Vicente will love Grupotel Molins, a hotel that overlooks the Bay of Molins. Although the beach is just steps from the hotel, many guests spend their time with a refreshing cocktail in hand laying out on the outdoor pool deck. For the ultimate in pampering while in Majorca, guests can book a luxury treatment in the onsite spa, or they could even have a massage right in their hotel room. Guests will love the tennis courts, the full fitness facility, the arcade room, the spacious and tastefully decorated rooms and the incredible restaurant onsite. The best way to start your day in Cala San Vicente is with the breakfast buffet from Grupotel Molins, which features international favorites and plenty of local specialties as well.

There are countless choices in Cala San Vicente when it comes to booking hotels, and travelers will always be able to find one that fits into their budget.

Visit the Capital of Palma de Mallorca
If you are looking for city life in Majorca, the capital of Palma is the only true city available on the island. More than half of Majorca’s population lives within Palma, and the city boasts a number of tourism attractions that interest visitors. Those who would like to learn more about the island’s history and culture should be sure not to miss the beautiful Catedral de Mallorca, the incredible 14th century Castell de Bellver or the Arab baths built in the 10th century. Palma is also home to several tourism attractions that are suited for families with children. Some of the best include the the water park Aqualand and Marineland, which is an aquarium and a zoo. There are also plenty of great opportunities to shop for souvenirs, dine on international or local fare and sip on cocktails in the vibrant bars and nightclubs in the city.

http://puertopollensa.org.uk/history-of-palma-mallorca

Alcudia
If you are interested in the charming architecture found on the island, but you don’t want to deal with the crowds of Palma, then make the short trip to Alcudia. This town is just a 15 minute drive or bus journey from Puerto Pollensa, but it boasts incredible ruins. The town was founded by the Phoenicians, but there are also a few Roman ruins that remain. Be sure to take a walk around the entire walled city to understand the true history of the place. In the old town center there are a handful of local restaurants and cafes, but there are also several beaches where you can relax or go swimming without the crowds.

http://puertopollensa.org.uk/alcudia-town-and-port

Explore the Mountains of Sóller
Anyone who wants to explore the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range will want to make the journey to the town of Sóller, which is nestled in a valley between the majestic mountains. Although the town itself is beautiful, most visitors come for the opportunity to explore the mountains. Beginners can join in with one of the walking tours at an easy pace, or you can tackle some of the longer hikes on your own. There are also some great places to try mountain biking in the area. If you want to get out in nature and see more than just the beaches and the coastline, Sóller is a lush and green destination that is definitely worth a visit.

Visiting Soller

S’Albufera Natural Park
Just 10 miles from Puerto Pollensa is the S’Albufera Natural Park, which is the largest wetland on the island. There are no cars allowed within the park, giving visitors the chance to experience nature up close. You can walk through the wetlands on your own, but be sure to keep your eyes open for wildlife like cows and more than 200 different types of birds.

http://puertopollensa.org.uk/parc-natural-de-salbufera

Dig Into the History of Valldemossa
The small village of Valldemossa is just a few miles from Sóller, but it is absolutely worth a trip in its own right. The highlight of the village is the impressive La Cartuja monastery, which is where Chopin famously spent one winter while composing music. While in Valldemossa, you can tour the many cells and tunnels of the monastery and even have access to the incredible nearby castle. Since there are few tourists that come to this area, it is a chance to get a real feel for the culture and history in the mountains of Majorca.

http://puertopollensa.org.uk/day-trip-puerto-pollensa-to-valldemossa

If you are planning on staying in Puerto Pollensa on your next trip to Majorca, be sure to embark on a few of these great day trips while you are there.

Other Trips
Visiting Cuevas Del Drach

Benefits of Retiring in Majorca
There are a number of reasons that retirees in the United Kingdom decide to move to Majorca. To start with, the weather and the scenery is infinitely more enjoyable on Majorca. You can expect warm weather and refreshing sea breezes throughout the year, and there are countless opportunities to take a quick dip in the pool or relax by the sea. In addition, the cost of living in Majorca is much cheaper than in much of the United Kingdom. You can lead an active life of golf, nature walks, cycling or sailing, and there is big community of retirees from around the world living on the island.

Getting Your Permiso de Residencia
It is important to note that even if you are part of the European Union and live in the United Kingdom, you will still need to apply for a permiso de residencia. This residential permit means that you are a legal resident of Majorca. Although these are incredibly easy to get, especially for retirees from the UK, many people decide instead to stay on 90-day tourist visas. To comply with local laws, apply for a permiso de residencia before you decide to make the move to Majorca to retire.

Anticipating Travel
Retirees have the option of traveling back to the United Kingdom during the year, so plan these trips into your budget. Try to determine how many trips you want, or can afford, during an average year. Keep in mind that ticket prices will be higher during the winter and summer holidays, but that might be when you want to see family back home the most.

Health Care and Medical Insurance
As an O.A.P. in the United Kingdom, you can apply for full health coverage in Majorca and you should not have any trouble getting accepted. With this coverage, you can access free health and medical attention from your local doctor. Any dependents you have, such as a spouse, would also be covered. If you are younger than British retirement age and you move to Majorca, you will have to pay for private health coverage.

Phone and Internet Communication
Majorca has modern communication facilities, so retirees should have no trouble at all getting mobile phone coverage and Internet access on the island.

Keep in mind that calling loves ones in the UK can be expensive, so planning for Internet communication might be a smarter choice.

International Banking
Although there are many different Spanish banks on Majorca, retirees may feel more comfortable setting up an international bank account for retirement.  2 year fixed rate bonds offer good savings rates meaning that you can get to your retirement in the sun even quicker. Many of the UK high street banks offer international bank accounts so you would be able to make international payments from country to country to cover any bills or outgoings that remain in the UK.

This allows them to access their savings from both the United Kingdom and Spain.

With these tips in mind, you can plan for a wonderful retirement on the island of Majorca.

The third and final section of Alcudia is Port d’Alcudia, or Alcudia Port. It is here that visitors can enjoy everything from beaches and great nightlife to fun activities for the entire family. It is a safe and attractive destination, and it combines the fun of the beach and access to the old town without excessive transport. Read on to learn about the dining options, beaches, accommodations and activities for children and families in Alcudia Port.

Beaches in Alcudia Port: One of the main attractions for children of all ages in Alcudia Port are the many beaches. A long pedestrian pathway, known as the Paseo Maritimo, runs alongside the entire port and next to a number of beautiful beaches. The main beach, which is also called Port Alcudia, is ranked as a four-star beach, earning the highest honours of any beach in Majorca. Not only is the sand soft and plentiful and the water clear and refreshing, but there are also numerous lifeguards on duty throughout the day. Parents will definitely appreciate that safety is a concern at Alcudia Port. If you plan to spend your days relaxing on the beach, there are places to seek out shade for younger children, places to purchase beach equipment like buckets and spades and even vendors selling cold drinks throughout the day.

Accommodations in Alcudia Port: Although there is a range of accommodation choices in Alcudia Port, there are limited numbers of boutique hotels and very affordable hostels. The most common lodging choices are the plentiful mid-level hotels and resorts. These are typically the perfect option for families. Instead of needing to rent a car and travel each day, you can simply head to the hotel for breakfast and walk right onto the beach. This is safe for children, and families will be able to stick together while still pursuing individual interests.

Dining in Alcudia Port: Since Alcudia Port receives a number of families visiting the area throughout the year, the restaurants cater specifically to British tastes. If you have picky children that only want to eat food from their home country, you can dine at the Chinese, Japanese, Italian, French, German, British or American restaurants. However, there are also a handful of exceptional Mallorcan and Spanish restaurants to choose from as well. Although there is plenty of nightlife, there is not a nightlife scene that is unsafe or unpleasant for children, so parents should feel free to walk along the Paseo Maritimo at night with no problems.

Family Activities in Alcudia Port: Even aside from the beaches, there are a number of great family activities to enjoy in Alcudia Port. The large public swimming pool is a great way to spend time if your own hotel does not have a pool, and the public sports centre is a wonderful place to play tennis or basketball as a family. There is also a fun arcade full of games, and families can rent boats or take sailing lessons right on the beach.

With great food, affordable and comfortable hotels, beautiful beaches and no end to the fun activities that all ages can enjoy, it is clear to see that Alcudia Port is a great family holiday destination.