Cala d'Or, the „Golden Bay“ in the southeast of Mallorca, is one of those spots that is perfect for those seeking relaxation and for families. Find out more here!

The fine sandy beaches 60 km from Palm were long just a stop on island tours. Today, the infrastructure is so excellently developed that it is definitely worth choosing the place as a base for a Mallorca holiday.

Cala d'Or is the other Mallorca

Cala d'Or is about an hour's drive from Palma Airport and near the regional centre of Santanyí. Anyone who passes the entrance to the town with its characteristic roundabout full of sculptures quickly gets to know a piece of Mallorca that is completely different from the rest of the island. The former fishing village, which today has a population of 4,000, was designed in the 1930s by Spanish architect Josep Costa Ferrer. The Ibizan architect created a small oasis in his native architectural style with a maximum of two-story, whitewashed houses, which nevertheless blend perfectly into the Mallorcan landscape. Pine trees line the streets and subsequent hotel construction was regulated to preserve the original character of Cala d'Or. This mix is well received by an international clientele. Not least because the tourist offerings are excellent and not only guarantee the perfect beach holiday. The town is also an ideal base for exploring the east of Mallorca with its Nature parks and explore historical sights extensively.

Dreamlike bays for every taste

In addition to the main beach, the resort has many other beaches to offer, framed by rugged cliffs. Families and water sports enthusiasts are drawn to the beach of Cala d'Or with its golden yellow, fine sand, which is protected by rocks, offers ideal conditions for swimming and snorkelling. Divers and cliff jumpers, on the other hand, are drawn north of it to Cala Gran. Water sports equipment and boats can be hired on site. Those who prefer natural and quieter surroundings should visit the bays of Cala Es Forti, Cala Serena, Cala Ferrera and Cala Esmeralda, which got its name from the turquoise water. While the resort and its bays are well-filled in summer, but not overcrowded, it is possible in the off-season to have one or another bay all to yourself. This is especially true for the white and gently sloping beach of S’Amarador, located south of Cala d’or. No one has to commit to one bay during their holiday and can even switch beaches several times a day. This is made possible by a mini-train that regularly serves the bays or offers complete round trips.

Holiday with the perfectly Mediterranean feeling

In Cala d’Or, you'll find everything you need for a holiday with a perfectly Mediterranean lifestyle. The pedestrian zone is lined with Shops, bars, and cafés lined. It's always worth taking a look at the artworks of the numerous Street performer to throw. The marina in Cala Llonga Bay is popular for strolling, where many exclusive yachts are anchored, giving it a touch of the jet set. Children will get their money's worth at the large Mallorquilandia playground, with its go-kart track, mini-golf course, and numerous trampolines. Since Cala d’Or is not an organically grown town but was created on the drawing board, it lacks historical sights. With one exception: the Es Forti fortress to the right of the bay was built by King Philip V as protection against pirates and other enemies. The walk up to the plateau is worthwhile not only to visit the fortress but also because the view of the sea is particularly stunning here. The popular meeting point is the Jolly Roger bar in town, where the evening winds down with snacks and cocktails or preparations are made for a night of disco at Linekers Club, the Palace, or Farrans Planet Ibiza.

Paradise for nature lovers

To explore the surroundings of Cala d’or, a hire car is worthwhile. Not far from the town is the „Parc natural de Mondrago“, where numerous hiking trails lead through the nature reserve across 765 hectares. The nature park can also be explored by bicycle. The two bays of S’Amarador and Cala Mondrago are also located there, which allows you to, Active and beach holiday bringing them together for a day. Tip: Don't forget the picnic basket! Nearby is the small town of Porto Petro, which has retained the original charm of a fishing harbour. Especially in the off-season, Cala d'Or is also a good base for hikes in Mallorca. For longer tours, the Serra de Levante is ideal, for example to Mount Randa, which is home to three monasteries. Or the hike to Castell Santueri, a fortress built as a defence system as early as the 13th century. Relaxed routes for cyclists await along the coast, past beaches and holiday resorts. Inland, the routes become more challenging. Horseback riding trips and courses for beginners and advanced riders are also offered in the Mondragó Nature Reserve.

Environment: Excursions to Santanyi and the Caves of Drach

Santanyí is located just 15 km from Cala d'Or. The historic small town is nestled amidst almond tree plantations and is built in a typical Mallorcan style, featuring marés sandstone and brightly coloured blue shutters. Wednesdays and Saturdays are bustling days in Santanyí. The weekly market, offering fruit, vegetables, local specialities, as well as arts and crafts and fashion, draws visitors from all over the island. In the town centre, you'll find many small shops selling unique fashion and jewellery. Sights include the town gate Porta Murada, the parsonage Sa Rectoria, and the church of Sant Andreu, boasting one of the best organs in Europe. Also within easy reach of Cala d'Or are the Caves of Drac by Porto Cristo.The unique cave system, with its artfully illuminated stalactites and underground lakes, is best discovered by boat tour. The entrance fee includes the boat trip across the Lago Martel as well as a concert in the cave's auditorium.

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