Cala d'Or
The premiere resort of Mallorca's south east, Cala d´Or was one of the island's first purpose built communities, founded in the 1930´s and based on the vision of the Ibizan architect Josep Costa Ferrer. Originally named Cala d'Hort after one of the loveliest beaches in Ibiza, the local accent has gradually transformed the name into Cala d' Or. It is now a thriving resort which prides itself on being one of the more sophisticated destinations on the island. With a night life which tends to be based more around restaurants than night clubs and a plethora of safe sandy beaches, this is a great family holiday destination.
Beaches around Cala d'Or
The resort was established around a series of the sandy coves that are typical of the coastline in this part of Mallorca including the small sandy beach at Cala Egos and Cala Gran, the main beach which is in the resort centre. Cala Llonga is the location of the marina, a long narrow inlet that splits the resort in two. However, it would be a shame not to visit some of the lovely and largely undeveloped beaches in the area, and one that is particularly recommended is Calo des Moro, a few kilometres to the south, near the village of Llombards.
Things to do in Cala d'Or
The beautiful marina at Cala d'Or is the ideal starting point for yacht charters in Mallorca, for a unique and unforgettable view of the coastline. Golfing holidays are also catered for with the Vall d'Or Golf club just a few kilometres away from the resort. The surrounding rolling countryside in this area makes it great for cycling holidays.
Things to see in Cala d'Or
The area is home to many largely unspoilt fishing villages. Those that merit a visit include Cala Figueres, Porto Petro and Porto Colom which is one of several towns in Spain that claim to be the birth place of Christopher Colombus. Mondragó Natural Park was declared a nature reserve in August 1992 after popular protests put a stop to a project to develop the area for tourism. The park has a choice of beautiful white sandy beaches to relax on far away from the crowds. There are also routes laid out to explore the park on foot. Information is available at the visitor centre at the entrance to the park.
Places to eat in Cala d'Or
For a truly luxurious gourmet night out don't miss the Cala Vista Restaurant at the Yacht Club of Cala d'Or which is open to non-members via prior reservation. Other great restaurants in Cala d'Or are Boa Vida (in the port), for tapas and more substantial meals. Botavara in the marina specialises in seafood and Port Petit in the port, offers a bistro-style menu at midday and tasting menus in the evening. Gadus (in the port) is a gourmet restaurant specialising in Mediterranean cuisine.
Unique features of Cala d'Or
The architecture of Cala d´Or is of a style not found anywhere else on the island, but the whitewashed, low-rise and flat-roofed houses are instantly recognizable to anyone who has visited Ibiza. This of course reflects the Ibizan heritage of the architect Josep Costa Ferrer
Market day – the nearest big market is held in Felanitx on Sunday morning.
Main fiesta – Mare de Deu de la Mar held around 15th August each year. Cala d'Or also hosts an international jazz festival each year in July.
Golf – Vall d'Or gof course within a 15 minute drive of resort.
Spa – The hotel Melia Cala d'Or has a spa with indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna and massages on request.
Parking – several car parks in the town centre, alternatively try one of the blue zones in the streets around the port but remember to feed the cash machine.
Email: paula@balearicdiscovery.com
Tel: +34 971 875 395
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