Village Magic in Mallorca: Fornalutx and Alcúdia Celebrate Their Accolades

Why these two villages are in the spotlight today

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On Wednesday the island will celebrate — but not with palm lights and party buses, but with quiet guided tours, photo exhibitions, and what really matters here: local stories. The communities Fornalutx and Alcúdia are in focus today because they are part of the network Pueblos Más Bonitos. Two places that in completely different ways show how Mallorcan identity works.

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Fornalutx: The mountain village that brushes time

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Fornalutx feels like a postcard someone painted centuries ago and nothing has changed since. With around 700 inhabitants, the place thrives on tourism, hikers, and the pride of residents to maintain their nature trails. Today there are free village walks at 10:30 and 16:00 — ideal if you want to experience the cobblestones without the midday heat.

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A small highlight: the old oil mill, now functioning as a mini-museum. Anyone who stops there looks at painted roof tiles that you normally only find in the Sóller area. Small details, big impact.

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Alcúdia: City walls, Roman traces and a lively market

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Alcúdia is the counterpart: a piece of living history between two coves. The defensive walls and gates tell many stories — from medieval daily life to the Roman ruins of Pollentia on the edge of the old town. If you like, you can participate in the exhibitions that open from 11:00; for families there are specially short tours (about 45 minutes) that also children find exciting.

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And yes: the market (Tuesdays and Sundays) is a good place to try a local Sobrasada or a piece of homemade cheese after the tour. Local saying: ’Take your time. A coffee. And walk along the wall when the sun is lower.’

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What the award means — and what it does not

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Being part of this network brings attention — more visitors, more photos — but also responsibility. Both places emphasize that they want to preserve their architecture and nature. This is rarely just a formal title; often projects follow to restore old houses, more signs on hiking trails and small exhibitions about traditional crafts.

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If you’re going today: plan a little extra time. Parking fills up quickly, the narrow lanes of Fornalutx are particularly beautiful in autumn, and in Alcúdia an evening stroll along the illuminated city wall is worth it.

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A personal tip: Arrive early, pack a bottle of water, and crown the tour with a market snack. This makes the visit truly complete — and gives you a sense of why these villages are regarded by many as small treasures of the island.