It's fair to say that the British have great affection for Puerto Pollensa, and it's not hard to work out why. The superb climate is undoubtedly attractive - typically Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot summers. Add to that a setting that is quite hard to beat: a protected bay with vivid blue waters, a pine-shaded promenade, lengths of soft golden sands, with the imposing blue-grey peaks and ridges of the north tip of the Tramontana mountains providing shelter and an arresting backdrop to this charming fishing village.

Favoured by families because of its tranquillity and shallow waters, Puerto Pollensa is a far cry from Mallorca's ill-famed resorts of the south. Its beachfront promenade, chic boutiques and seafood restaurants. Partly pedestrianised, an air of cafe culture spills over to the shady main plaza a few blocks in.

Not only the British have been seduced by the beauty of Eu Moll, as the locals call it. With its vibrant marina and cosmopolitan character, Puerto Pollensa receives many international visitors and more than its fair share of celebrities throughout the year, many of whom have second homes here.

Another appealing factor is the amazingly varied sections of the beach. The famous Pine Walk, at the far tip of Pollensa Bay is a cobbled pathway that runs parallel to the water's edge, from the start of the military base at Sa Fortaleza, past the exclusive Hotel Illa D'Or, right into town. The shallow, calm waters make this narrow but beautiful sandy beach ideal for small children who can paddle under the shade of the pines whilst their parents enjoy lunch at one of the several restaurants dotted along the walkway.

The main stretch of the beach, adjacent to the seafront road, is large enough, and with adequate infrastructure, to make holidaying with older children easy. Head here for the sun beds, parasols, unique beach bars and various water sports. Continue around the bay towards Alcudia to find more open waters ideal for kite and windsurfing. The natural beach here is practically deserted, even during the hottest months. This is the place to be pre-sunset with a portable deckchair and a cool bag. Sit and enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains and their ever-changing colours, and let your love affair with Puerto Pollensa begin.