Nestled on the coast of the Bay of Palma between the city of Palma on one side and holiday resort beach towns of Can Pastilla or S’Arenal on the other, Portixol and El Molinar neighbourhoods have kept their original charm for decades. Originally sleepy fishermen villages, as was the case with Santa Catalina, these neighbourhoods have slowly been adapted for contemporary living, with restaurants, shops, bars, and an overall trendier lifestyle. The beautiful Hotel Portixol, opened by Swedish businessman, Mikael Landstrom helped to anchor the area as desirable, re-establishing its modern design aesthetic and style. 

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The area is quite small and there is no real town square or centre. Rather, shops and restaurants are scattered about, the majority near the sea, and what’s unique about this area is that just a few blocks inland and you have the main highway and access to the airport and other parts of the island. 

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The area is defined by the promenade that meanders along Portixol beach, perfect for walking or cycling. With views of the La Seu cathedral and the expansive bay, this niche area is not surprisingly a go-to destination for Mallorcans across the island as well as tourists. El Molinar features the popular Ciutat Jardi beach that has a very local feel while being a larger beach that tourists come to as well. 

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We we love: The low-key beach community feel to this neighbourhood and enjoying a paella on a warm Sunday afternoon. 

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