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Cala San Vincente |
Overview: Cala San Vincente (also known as Cala Sant Vicenç) is a
lovely, small holiday resort set in what is still essentially a
fishing village. Situated on the north eastern coast, about three
miles (5km) from Pollensa, Cala San Vincente boasts spectacular
scenery, charming old houses and three beaches. This is not the
place to come for all-night parties or massive hotel complexes, but
suits those seeking to relax and enjoy the character of the area.
For fine food in Cala San Vincente, try Restaurante Can Niu.
The main beach is Cala Barques, where holidaymakers can expect
to share the space with local fishermen repairing nets, as well as
their equipment, and there are also several beachside restaurants
and bars on offer. Tucked around a rocky hillock is the tiny, but
often crowded, Cala Clara beach. A little bit further on is the
popular swimming beach of Cala Molins, whose sand is imported each
year. In general, the water is warm and crystal clear, perfect for
swimmers, and the views are spectacular.
There is not much in the way of shopping on offer in Cala San
Vincente besides the basics, but the nearby town of Pollensa offers
a greater selection and a lovely Sunday market, as well as several
historic buildings. There are also regular buses to Inca and Puerto
Pollensa. A popular local attraction is a series of prehistoric
man-made caves, and closer to Pollensa are the Calvari steps; 365
tree-lined steps that lead up to the minute Calvari church and its
ancient wooden cross. For the less culturally inclined, a mini golf
course is also on offer.
Activities
Castell d’Alaro: Mallorca’s most popular hiking trail is the climb from the
town of Alaro up to a ruined castle and hilltop chapel, which
offers panoramic views of the sea and plains as far as Palma. From
Alaro the walk takes about two hours to complete. The castle ruins
on the hilltop date from the 15th century and dominate the
landscape. At the summit there is a restaurant and bar to refresh
weary climbers. On Sundays the trail becomes rather busy.