Can Picafort Travel Guide

C'an Picafort is a relatively large holiday resort situated on the northeast coast of Mallorca on the lovely Bay of Alcudia, about an hour away from Palma. Like El Arenal, C'an Picafort is highly popular with German visitors, and due to those who have returned to live there, it retains a certain German flavour. The resort grew from a tiny fishing village (the remains of which can be seen in the town's working harbour) and today spreads along a grid of small streets near the principal beach.

Pedestrian-friendly, with a promenade perfect for evening strolls, the resort has become popular with those seeking a quiet beachside getaway, and hotels provide much of the resort's entertainment. There are several bars, restaurants and nightclubs, however, as well as plenty of shops and an excellent market on Fridays. C'an Picafort is right next to Son Baulo, which has its own beach, shops and restaurants and is a popular holiday destination in its own right.

Shopping

C'an Picafort is not a shopper's paradise, but there's a good variety of little gift shops and visitors should be able to find everything they require on holiday. Most shops face onto the paved road lining the beach. Market days are Tuesday and Sunday, and while the market is small, visitors can pick up some great souvenirs if they're prepared to bargain hard.

Restaurants

There are numerous British-themed pubs and eateries, and an equal number of German and Scandinavian restaurants catering to the large number of visitors from those countries. The most popular style of eating for locals and visitors alike is tapas, which are provided at any café in town.

Nightlife

Although not generally considered a party hub, C'an Picafort does boast some nightclubs as well as some fun bars, and the hotels tend to provide vigorous entertainment schedules for those keen to take part. The longest running nightclub at the resort is Skau, which is open every night during the summer season. Another nightlife hotspot in C'an Picafort is the western-themed bar Charly's.

Holiday activities

The excellent beach is the main draw for most visitors to C'an Picafort, but there are some other distractions for those who want some variety. There are several activities to indulge in during the day such as cruises, horse riding, jeep safaris, go-karting, mountain biking, various water sports, and excursions to neighbouring areas providing a more local Spanish flavour. Santa Margalida has more than 150 archaeological sites, including the Son Real Necropolis (also known as the Cemetery of the Phoenicians) that was used as a burial site from the Iron Age to Roman times. The nearby S'Albufera Wetlands Park offers excellent bird-watching opportunities, and a chance to enjoy the local flora and fauna. Another great way to spend the day is to take a bus trip to the busier resort of Puerto de Alcudia, or to Palma or Pollensa.

Any negatives?

There are few worthwhile attractions in town and for those who want more than a beach-based holiday C'an Picafort can be a bit dull.