Moving south from Port de Pollença, it's just 10km round the bay to the pint-sized town of ALCUDIA , whose main claim to fame is its imitation medieval wall. Indeed, the whole place is possibly overly spick and span, which is not a good reflection of the town's historical importance. Situated on a neck of land separating two large, sheltered bays, the site's strategic value was first recognized by the Phoenicians, and later by the Romans, who built their island capital, Pollentia, here in the first century AD, on top of the earlier settlement. In 426, the place was destroyed by the Vandals and lay neglected until the Moors built a fortress in about 800, naming it Al Kudia (On the Hill). After the Reconquest, Alcúdia prospered as a major trading centre, a role it performed well into the nineteenth century, when the town slipped into a long and gentle decline - until tourism refloated its economy.
It only takes an hour or so to walk around the antique lanes of Alcudia's compact centre, and to explore the town walls and their fortified gates. This pleasant stroll can be extended by a visit to the meagre remains of Roman Pollentia ( April-Sept Tues-Fri 10am-1.30pm & 5-7pm, Sat & Sun 10.30am-1pm; Oct-March Tues-Fri 10am-1.30pm & 3.30-5.30pm, Sat & Sun 10.30am-1pm ) whose broken pillars and mashed-up walls lie just outside the walls.
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Buses to Alcúdia halt beside the town walls on Plaça Carles V; there's no tourist office. For food , there are several good cafés on Plaça Constitucio, but it's hard to beat the cosy café-bar of Ca's Capella , just east of the church of Sant Jaume along Calle Rectoria.
You are really spoilt for choice regarding accommodation in the area , much of the establishements make the most of the beautiful and picturesque port area and huddle around the protetected and calm waters of the cove area.
A great value and popular hotel resort would have to be the Sea Club This apartment complex is set a short walk from the beach in Alcudia Bay, Mallorca. The Sea Club has 3 design swimming pools and a full family entertainment programme. There is free public parking available nearby. All apartments offer a balcony, and a kitchen with utensils and a kettle. Satellite TV and air conditioning are also included.
The Club Mac is on the slightly higher price range but somes comes highly recommended and overall has proven to be great value in the past. The Club Mac resort is set in an extensive estate where you will find a host of excellent facilities. Relax around the swimming pool, and soak up the pleasant Majorcan sun, while the children take a dip in the one of the 9 pools onsite. Alternatively, you can stroll around the huge site, through the extensive gardens to admire the 2 natural lakes.
Gary
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The Rough Guide to Spain
