Things to do in Alcudia
Once home to several distant civilisations and blessed with a bay of golden sand and clear water, Alcúdia is one of the most beautiful towns on the island of Mallorca. Its fascinating history started more than 4,000 years ago, and there’s plenty of evidence recording its first human settlements in 2000-1300 BC. With a charming medieval town, an array of water sports and rich natural wildlife, Alcúdia is the perfect spot for enjoying an authentic Mallorcan holiday.
Step back in time
Start by entering the famous Portal de Moll or Xara Gate between two square towers, and walk the winding streets of the old town. Its maze of narrow streets lead to bustling squares filled with pavement cafés and boutiques, centuries-old buildings, churches and museums. Look out for the classic 14th-century architecture of Ca’n Torro Library on Carrer d’en Serra. The buildings in the area are adorned with coats of arms, floral garlands and other decorations embellished on the walls.
Amazing views
Surrounding the historical town are the city walls built after the Spanish conquest in the early 14th-century. There are 26 towers providing look out points, including the impressive Porta de Sant Sebastia, the gate connecting Alcúdia to the royal road of Palma. Spot the neo-Gothic Sant Jaume Church, dedicated to the patron saint of Alcúdia. Make sure to walk all around the walls for the most amazing views.
Roman ruins
When the Romans settled here, they claimed Alcúdia as the island’s capital and built a well ordered city with streets, sewers and drinking water. You’ll see the evidence first hand at the Roman Remains of Pollentia, an extensive archaeological site located just outside the medieval walls. Among the ruins is an impressive and very well preserved theatre. Its semi-circular seating area was big enough for up to 2,000 spectators. Also worth visiting is the attached Museum Monografic de Pollèntia, the site of the first hospital in Mallorca. You’ll get to see many personal and domestic artefacts found during the excavation.
Relax on the beach
Of course, you won’t want to miss a minute of the magnificent Blue Flag Alcúdia Beach. As the largest stretch of all the Balearic islands, you’ll always find a spot that suits, from a lively sports area to quieter, peaceful coves. You could also venture a little further along to enjoy the relaxed Playa de Muro. Playa de S’Illot is also a great small cove with a pebble beach sheltered from the wind, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and canoeing.
Have fun on water
Pick up the pace on your holiday with one of the many water sports on offer. Enjoy an afternoon of wind surfing or go bumping through the waves on a doughnut or banana boat. Make the most of north Mallorca’s only water park, the Hidropark. Water slides, a wave pool and inflatable bouncy castles will give everyone a laugh. It also includes a children’s splash area, trampolines, floating water balls, mini-golf, and a restaurant and barbecue.
A cultural hub
The Yannick & Ben Jakober Foundation (Sa Bassa Blanca Museum) is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of the Balearic Islands historical heritage. Set in beautiful parkland, it exhibits many of the archaeological objects found in excavations of local Roman sites. It also displays art ranging from 16th-century paintings to 20th-century sculptures. Casa Museo is also worth a visit. This typical Mallorcan home pays homage to Andrés Jofre Ferrer whose paintings and poetry depict the daily life of Mallorca and its inhabitants.
Experience Nature
Venture outdoors and get close to nature at the Parc Natural de S’Albufera, a nature reserve renowned for birdwatching. Observation platforms are set in sand dunes, and surrounded by tamarisk trees and sweet smelling sea daffodils. You’ll be able to spot purple herons, moustached warblers, long-eared owls, and many more who come to breed on this exotic island. Alternatively, take to the hills and hike to the La Victoria area of Alcúdia. This woodland walk will reward you with views over the whole stretch of the Bay of Alcúdia.