Things to do in Cala d’Or, Majorca
WHAT TO SEE IN CALA D'OR
CALA D’OR
Combine days of utter relaxation with adventurous excursions at beautiful Cala d’Or. Mallorca’s popular ‘golden bay’ delivers a blissful Mediterranean escape thanks to its beautiful coves, yacht-filled marina, delicious restaurants, cultural festivals and lively nightlife. Nature lovers, sports addicts and sun seekers are all catered for here. It’s a destination with broad appeal that attracts groups of friends, couples and families.
Cala d’Or is great If you enjoy traditional holidays. So check out the abcMallorca guide to the best hotels, shopping, restaurants and attractions.
RELAX AT THE BEACH
The picture-postcard bays of Cala d’Or are the main attraction. Their golden sand and turquoise waters are framed by rocky outcrops which offer protection from the wind. Cala Gran and Cala Ferrera provide all the facilities for a relaxing day at the seaside, including beach bars and water sport hire. If you want to escape to a secluded bay there’s beautiful Cala Serena, which is a favourite with snorkelers and divers
SHARE A MEAL ALONG THE HARBOUR
A holiday beside the sea is incomplete without a leisurely alfresco meal. Unwind at one of the many inviting restaurant terraces along the main marina. For fine-dining there’s Port Petit with its fresh and creative international dishes. Yaya’s specialises in artfully presented fusion cuisine and Infinity Restaurant at the Yacht Club hosts themed nights with live music beside the pool.
PLAY GOLF
Enjoy stunning views of the bay of Cala d’Or and Portocolom from the green at Vall d’Or Golf Club. The 18-hole course is situated 10 km from the coast and has a complete range of services including full equipment and buggy hire. Extend a pleasurable day out with a lunch at Maxime. Their restaurant occupies an attractive rustic country house and has a wonderful terrace.
ATTEND A LOCAL FESTIVAL
Hardly a week goes by without a town in Mallorca celebrating a gastronomic or religious event. Cala d’Or’s summer festivities are held during the first two weeks of August. Expect sporting tournaments, open air concerts and a craft market. A flotilla of boats commemorates La Virgen de Agosto (Assumption Day) on 15th August.
WATCH THE SUNSET FROM ES FORTÍ
The golden coast is a photogenic destination. One perfect spot for viewing sunrises and sunsets is the fortress known as Es Fortí. After being destroyed by an earthquake in 1755, it was rebuilt at the end of the 18th century. Free to enter, you’ll be able to see the embrasures used for defence against pirates. The viewing point is a twenty-five minute walk from the Cala d’Or Marina.
SHOP AT A NIGHT CRAFT MARKET
Peruse the evening craft market held every week during May to October. In Cala d’Or it takes place every Sunday evening at Plaza Toni Costa. Stalls sells gifts, clothing and local delicacies. The Cala Egos evening market is held on Thursdays. Both markets run from 18.00 to 23.30, allowing for plenty of time for some relaxed shopping before or after supper.
TAKE A RIDE ON A CLASSIC YACHT
Savour the sea breeze on your skin as you set sail on a classic yacht. The custom built 16 m Vita Bel II has been used for day trips since 1995 and allows for groups of 2 to 18. Choose to spend a long morning or entire day relaxing at sea with swimming stops and options for on-board barbecues or high-quality Mediterranean dining.
VISIT THE MONDRAGÓ NATURE RESERVE
El Parque Natural de Mondragó is an area of outstanding natural beauty located 6 km east of Cala d’Or. It’s home to many species of birds and wildlife. There are signposted walks along the coast and through the scrub land. Four stunning sandy bays are accessible within the park and offer calm shallow waters.
GO WINE TASTING
Take a guided tour of the Son Alegre vineyards and bodega in Canonge. The beautiful grounds are located 5 km away from Cala d’Or. Sample a range of organic wines accompanied with local bread, cheese and olives. It’s certain to be a flavoursome day out.
ATTEND THE INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL
Listen to live music every evening of Cala d’Or’s six day jazz festival. The popular event is usually held during the last week of May. Musicians play along the main streets, bars and hotels. The festival began in 1994 and continues to create a real buzz.
VISIT THE SANTUARI THE SANT SALVADOR
Experienced cyclists may relish the challenge of an excursion to the hilltop monastery of Sant Salvador. It’s situated 21 km from Cala d’Or and, at 509 m above sea level, it delivers spectacular panoramic views of plains, mountains and sea. It’s just one of the many stunning viewpoints on Mallorca.
DISCOVER THE NIGHTLIFE
Cala d’Or has plenty of nightlife on offer during the summer. Enjoy great cocktails and yacht-filled views at one of the terraces along Cala d’Or Maria. Sky Bar has guest DJs playing until 4am daily during high season. In the centre of town, explore the pubs and music bars along Avenida Bélgica, Calle Santanyί and Calle d’en Toni Costa. Great cover bands regularly play at Diferent and Dugan’s and there’s a great vibe at eclectic Lola and music until late at Buddha Pub.
VISIT THE DRACH CAVES
The impressive Drach Caves measure 1,200 long and 25 m deep and are located 25 km north of Cala d’Or and well worth a visit. What makes them so special is the sheer quantity of stalactites and stalagmites and the final great cavern. Within this natural concert hall you’ll be able to listen to classical music played from an illuminated boat in the underground lake.
VISIT SANTANYI
The historic and picturesque town of Santanyí is situated 15 km east of Cala d’Or. The traditional houses with their green shuttered windows are made from locally sourced sandstone. Every Wednesday and Saturday there’s an open air market in Plaza Mayor. Santanyí is popular with artists and you’ll find several art galleries and interior design boutiques here
