Alcudia

Located in the north of Majorca, Alcudia is one of the most popular summer and winter destinations on the island due to its beautiful wide, sweeping bay and family based attractions. Alcudia is especially loved by the British and its wonderful setting beneath the striking Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains and laid back feel make it particularly appealing to families and middle aged couples.

The number one attraction in Alcudia is undoubtedly the lovely beach area that offers ideal bathing and swimming conditions owing to the wide expanse of white sands and gently sloping shallow waters. This spotlessly clean bay stretches right around to the resort of Ca’n Picafort and boasts water sports facilities that the entire family can enjoy.

The centre of the resort is the port area at the northern end of the bay and the web of streets that run into the town from here. This is where the majority of hotels and tourist facilities are based, although you will never be far from the action, no matter what part of the beach you stay on.

Alcudia’s historical old town lies inland from the port area and was originally inhabited by the Phoenicians, Greeks and then the Romans, and there are more than a few important archaeological sites in the area. Old Alcudia still retains its city walls and gates that date back 700 years, while the Sa Talaia d'Alcudia watchtower, behind the town, affords amazing views.

Taking a two-hour guided tour of the old town run by the local tourist office (at 12:00 every Wednesday) is the best way to learn about old Alcudia. Additionally, there is a market held in Alcudia every Sunday and Tuesday with locally produced handicrafts and perishables on offer at bargain prices for those prepared to haggle.

For a great family day out, the Alcudia Hidropark boasts a range of fun water slides and swimming pools, as well as mini golf. Set in beautiful surroundings, the Hidropark also has a wave pool, good snack bars and eateries.

The beach area is lined with cafés and restaurants, but there is not the massive choice found in the southern resorts, while the nightlife is largely hotel based. Some of the hotels put on excellent entertainment in the evenings and there are also many large bistro type venues around the port that have facilities for families. Alcudia has some louder, late night bars and nightclubs for those so inclined.

Farther afield, Albuferas Natural Wetlands, a nature sanctuary loaded with a variety of flora and fauna, is only a short drive from Alcudia and is ideal for relaxation. Another good way to enjoy the nature around Alcudia is to hire a bicycle and cycle the road around the Cap de Pinar (Pinar Cape) for great sea and mountain views.

The pretty resort and bay at Puerto Pollenca is just beyond the entrance to Cap de Pinar, while in the other direction, farther southeast along Alcudia Bay, you will eventually come to the upmarket resort of Playa de Muro. The German- friendly resort of Ca’n Picafort is a little farther again and a bit noisier.

Getting to Alcudia

Palma de Majorca International Airport (Aeroport Son San Joan) receives flights from all over Europe and mainland Spain and is about a one-hour taxi ride to Alcudia. Buses also run direct to the resort from the airport throughout the day, including weekends, and many hotels and resorts run their own shuttle buses.