Great Things to Do Near El Cel
Palma de Mallorca, capital city
It would be a shame not to spend time in Palma - there are many interesting historical buildings to visit including the Cathedral, Almudaina Palace, Bellver Castle, as well as museums and art galleries. Palma is also an excellent shopping centre.
Go to the market
Pollença market on Sunday morning is a colourful bustling event where you can buy your locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as a few souvenirs and presents. Have a look inside the church which is very impressive.
Birdwatchers’ Paradise
Ornithologists will know about the birdwatching area at the Albufera and Albufereta, where you can see several different species of wading birds, amongst others, especially during the migrating season.
Explore the old town of Pollença
Stroll around the old town of Pollença. It's definitely worth making the effort to climb the 365 steps up to the Calvary church and browsing in the curious little shops before sitting down to relax with a drink and dinner in one of the many popular restaurants in the pedestrianised squares.
Beach at Port de Pollença
At Port de Pollença the beach is spacious, has all amenities, parking along the seafront, and if it gets too hot there is a little playground in a small wood for a respite from the sun.
Formentor beach and lighthouse
A scenic drive will take you to Formentor Lighthouse - the road is quite narrow in places. At the top of the hill out of Port de Pollença, it is worth stopping at the viewpoint to see El Colomer rock. Although the beach at Formentor is not very large, it has clear shallow water ideal for children and adults alike, with some good waters for snorkelling. Go early, with a picnic.
Play a round of golf!
Mallorca has a great variety of golf courses and the closest is the 9-hole course at Pollença. Just a short drive is Alcanada with its 18-hole course and beautiful views overlooking the Bay of Alcúdia.
Old Roman town of Alcúdia
Tuesday market in Old Alcúdia is interesting and has a plentiful supply of locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables, then just stroll round the pedestrianised old Roman town where caper plants are growing out of the main massive thick stone walls surrounding the town. The local council offer a free guided tour around the historical centre of Alcúdia old town on Wednesdays and Fridays during the summer months.
Caves of Campanet
The beautiful Caves of Campanet, found by a shepherd about 100 years ago, are not too far away and worth a visit to see the fascinating stalagmite and stalactite formations. These caves are not too commercialised and visits are on the hour. For the most impressive caves, go to Portocristo on the east coast and visit the Caves of Drach which houses one of the largest underground lakes in Europe.
Sóller and its Port by train
The old-fashioned train ride through the mountains from Palma (or Bunyola) to Sóller and back, including the tram to the Port of Sóller through the orange groves and back, and just sitting in the church square in Sóller enjoying a drink and watching the world go by.
Visit Palma Aquarium
Discover the marine world’s best kept secrets by embarking on a wonderful adventure through this marine park featuring more than 8000 animals of 700 different species and more than 5 million litres of salt water. You will also be able to enjoy a wide variety of activities which combine education and fun, suitable for all ages. Open daily. Check website for actual opening hours: Palmaaquarium.com or phone: +34 902 702 902.
Tramuntana mountain road to Deià
Drive over the Tramuntana mountain roads via Pollenca, Lluc and Sóller, taking in the spectacular scenery, stopping at the various viewpoints including the two lakes/reservoirs, and passing through several world-renowned towns of Fornalutx, Deià and Valldemossa, home to famous writers, painters and musicians.
Scenic drive in the north east
Heading in an easterly direction, drive through the resorts of Playa de Muro and Ca'n Picafort, and then towards Artà where one of the local trades is basket making. Find a country lane to the hermitage of Betlem where the views overlook Colònia de Sant Pere in the Bay of Alcúdia. Back to Artà and, if you are interested in prehistoric building, then visit the Poblat de Ses Païsses before carrying on to Capdepera to see the castle.
Mallorca in the olden days!
Visit one of the most representative manors of Mallorca's plains, Els Calderers de Sant Joan, where you will be able to imagine farming as it was 200 years ago and sample some home-made local products. Or, in the opposite direction at Esporles, is La Granja a large historical mansion with gardens, fountains, ancient trees and plants with wild and domestic animals. Also on view - a demonstration of ancient handicrafts, tools and machinery. Taste Mallorcan specialities such as jams, cheese, fig cake, sobrassada and moscatel.
Cala San Vicente
This delightful spot has 4 sandy cove beaches where the waters are crystal clear and ideal for snorkelling. There are a good selection of beachside bars and restaurants where a cooling drink or a delightful meal of fresh fish can be enjoyed while overlooking the beach.
Waterparks and Marineland
For those who enjoy waterparks, try Aqualand at S'Arenal - it can get crowded and best to take a picnic! Marineland, in Costa den Blanes, has wonderful dolphin, sea lion and parrot shows.
Walk to the top of Puig de Maria
Just past the rooster roundabout on the road from Pollença to Palma on the left, is the start of the walk up to the top of Puig de Maria. It's best to go first thing in the morning wearing sensible shoes. Don't forget your camera and a bottle of water although there is a bar at the top. The views over the north coast are outstanding.
Paella on the beach
Spend a day at the beach between Ca'n Picafort and the area east of Alcúdia, at Ses Casetes des Capellans, where you can enjoy a tasty paella or seafood dishes at one of the beach restaurants while enjoying the sea and sun on a long and sandy beach.
