Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
BIKING & HIKING IN MALLORCA
Kai Schwerte and Julia Rimpl, guides at Bike & Kite in Port de Pollença, filled us in
on their favourite north coast and Serra de Tramuntana trails.
Favourite day hike
La Victòria peninsula, especially the half-day hike to Talaia
d'Alcudia (445m), has it all - sea, mountains, dramatic coastline, 360-degree
views. On the descent there's a chance to swim in Platja des Coll Baix' turquoise
water, and the track back through pine woods is fairly easygoing.
Top rides
For experienced mountain bikers, the 55km day tour from Port de Pol-
lença to Monestir de Lluc is a must. Mountain bikers love the moderate climbs,
single trails through holm oak woods and downhill on stony pilgrim trails. There are
incredible views of the Tramuntana and the Badia de Pollença. Less experienced
cyclists could hook onto a guided sunrise tour to Formentor or a half-day spin of
the Parc Natural de S'Albufera.
Best for peak baggers
Puig de Massanella (1365m) is a dramatic ascent. Its
Alpine character with several climbing passages along fixed ropes makes it a chal-
lenge, but the views reaching across the entire island make the effort worthwhile.
Eating
A weekly market is staged on Wednesday, on Plaça Miguel Capllonch, two blocks in-
land, northwest of the marina.
Celler La Parra
MALLORCAN €
( 971 86 50 41;
www.cellerlaparra.com
;
Carrer de Joan XXIII 84; mains €10-16.50; 1-3pm &
7.15-11pm; )
In business since the 1960s, this atmospheric, old-style Mallorcan restaur-
ant is something of a rarity in these parts. It serves up genuine island fare, from fresh fish
to
frit Mallorquí
(a lamb offal fry-up),
lechona
(roast lamb) and
tumbet
(Mallorcan rata-
touille). Throw in a wood-fired oven, wine-cellar decor and not a pizza in sight, and
you'll soon see why we like it.
Ca'n Cuarassa
SPANISH, MALLORCAN €€€
( 971 86 42 66;
www.cancuarassa.com
; Carretera Port de Pollença-Alcúdia; mains €14.50-30,
3-course menus €30; noon-3.30pm & 7-11pm; )
With its sea views and tranquil garden
terrace fringed by palm and tamarind trees, this genteel villa stands out. Homemade
bread and tapas are a tantalising lead to dishes like fillet of turbot in a
cava
sauce and
