Cala Ratjada Mallorca is a stunning medieval-style resort not too far away from Palma. The location is perfect; it has everything from the sun to fun and the sea. The resort is popular thanks to its blue crystal waters and golden sand beaches.
It makes for the best holiday destination if you want the perfect balance of fun and relaxation.
Keep reading to find out why Cala Ratjada should be a part of your next travel plans.
What is Cala Ratjada Like?
Cala Ratjada is a stunning resort found in Spain’s northeastern point. It extends around both sides of the Punta de Capdepera peninsula and has spectacular views of the scenic rocky coastline. Since it is one of the closest points to Menorca, you can see Ciutadella on a lovely clear day.
The harbour, an old fishing port, and the surrounding area are charming. During the summer months, all the bars, restaurants and other fun activities create a huge vibe along the promenade and around the port, stretching from Playa Son Moll to Cala Gat.
The stunning coves and golden sand beaches make it the perfect summer destination, and it is very popular with German families. During the winter months, the Cala Ratjada beaches and the town shut down, apart from a few local bars and spots.
History & Culture of Cala Ratjada
Being on the extreme northeast corner and closest to Menorca, Cala Ratjada’s port has played a huge role in Mallorca’s economy. It was a quiet fishing port from the 17th century and specialised in lobster and skate fishery. It is still a fishing port today.
The first signs of tourism were seen during the early 20th century, as loads of wealthy landowners from all over the world started spending their summers at the stunning beaches in the surrounding area.
In the 1960s, it officially transformed from a fishing village to a tourist hotspot.
Beaches in Cala Ratjada
The beaches around this small rocky peninsula are highly popular due to their turquoise waters and fine golden sand. The perfect place to soak up that summer sun. The best beaches include Cala Agulla beach, Cala Gat, Cala Guya, Cala Mesquida beach, and Son Moll beach.
Holiday goers can enjoy the various watersports at these beaches, such as water skiing, diving, sailing, and windsurfing. Son Moll beach is the main beach, and it is on the south side of the harbour.
Cala Gat is a bit smaller and is on the east side. You can find a few quiet beaches further north, such as Cala Mesquida and Cala Agulla beach. You will need a car to reach Cala Mesquida.
Things to Do in Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada Majorca is quite different to some of the other Mallorcan resorts since it is an old fishing port. The resort of Cala Ratjada has everything you need to have a fun-filled holiday. Boat trips are very popular. There are various sunset cruises and dolphin excursions.
Cycling enthusiasts thrive in this coastal development, with the Serra de Tramuntana and the Serra de Llevant right there. There is also a stunning ride from Cala Ratjada to Cala Mesquida, and you can find bike hires around town.
Cala Agulla and Cala Mesquida have been recognised as a protected bird sanctuary by the Balearic government. So there are stunning birds to see there. This municipal district is ideal for nature lovers.
Hiking is also popular in the area, with various trails. Some people also enjoy hot air balloon rides. There are daily flights, and it is a great way to see Mallorca from a new perspective. Trail running is also an option, and so is golf.
There is the lovely Capdepera Golf course where avid golfers can go play some holes. And, of course, water sports are very popular. Banana boating, pedaloes, you can do pretty much anything. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and due to the rocky coastline, there are some incredible snorkelling opportunities.
Hotels in Cala Ratjada
There are a number of hotels in the area. Most are resort hotels that are very affordable and great for families. There are also a few modern villas or rural fincas that are wonderful places to stay.
The Sea Club Hotel is perfect for families. It is a charming little hotel great for large groups of friends or families. It is a villa-esque hotel, and they have been around for over 50 years. The Ses Rotges hotel is a mere few streets from the coast and close to the fishing harbour.
Ses Rotges is an old Mallorcan Finca and has stunning traditional furnishings. It is perfectly located for late-night strolls along the Cala Ratjada seafront.
Another stunning stay is at Hotel Bella Playa. It is a whitewashed, modern building that is highly popular during the summer months. It is also a very popular base for walkers that go on holiday from February to May and October.
The hotel is a world-class spa with Turkish baths, a sauna, and relaxing massages. There is also the Vanity Hotel Suite & Spa, which is an adults-only hotel in Cala Mesquida. This gorgeous stay overlooks the beach and has outdoor and indoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a gym, and a shooting range.
Restaurants in Cala Ratjada
There are a wide variety of restaurants in the area. You will find something for everyone’s tastes and everyone’s budget. We highly recommend that you go to Es Coll d’Os restaurant, it has a great reputation and can be found in a stunning traditional finca.
Es Coll d’Os restaurant takes fresh produce to new heights by serving all of their fresh vegetables from their very own garden. The cuisine is mostly Mediterranean. They have a set menu, and the space is very welcoming, warm, and lively.
If you want to sit somewhere where you can enjoy a meal with a view, then La Familia Son Moll is the spot for you. They have something for everyone here, from steaks to tapas and paella.
Another excellent choice is the Restaurante del Mar on Avenida de America. It boasts the most amazing views of the sea, and they offer seasonal cuisine. There is also La Bodeguita on the promenade. It is a bit more casual, and they serve international favourites and tapas. They also have a little garden where diners can sit.
If it is seafood that you are after, then Ses Ancorse, near the marina, has amazing seafood specials and delicious paella. Es Llaüt Restaurant is also a popular choice for seafood.
Nightlife in Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada has a wide variety of nightclubs and bars where holiday goers can go dancing and have a good time. There are lots of opportunities to go off and enjoy the night activities and lively entertainment of Cala Ratjada.
Events in Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada has a weekly market every Saturday morning at Plaça del Pins. And every year, on the third weekend of May, Capdepera, their neighbouring town, hosts an amazing medieval festival where they sell local produce, play folk music from local bands and musicians, and provide ample entertainment by the street performers.
There is the Carme feast during mid-July and Saint Roch’s feast during mid-August. These celebrations enjoy live music, street parties, and traditional rituals.
Shopping in Cala Ratjada
There is a traditional street market every Saturday at the Placa del Pins in Cala Ratjada. There you can find vegetables, fruits, local food, crafts, and clothes.
There is a Wednesday street market in Capderpa and a Tuesday market in Arta. There are also various shops selling souvenirs and some stunning boutiques.
How to get to Cala Ratjada
You can either get to Cala Ratjada via public transport or by car. There isn’t a direct bus from the airport to Cala Ratjada. Bus number 1 is your best choice. You can take it to the bus station at Plaça d’Espanya, then head on the 411 TIB bus that goes between Palma and Cala Ratjada a number of times every day. It will take about an hour and a half at most.
The timetable does change throughout the year, so be sure to double-check it when travelling. The 411 bus connects Cala Ratjada with Manacor, Arta, Cala Agulla, and Capdepera. Alternatively, you can travel by car. It takes about an hour and 10 minutes from the airport via car.
From Palma airport, head down Ma-19 towards Santanya, follow all signs and hop on to the Ma-15 till you reach Sant Llorenc. You then need to get onto the Ma-4030 and Ma-4040 going towards Capdepera. You will then start seeing the signs heading to Cala Ratjada.
Surrounding areas of Cala Ratjada
You can also go and explore other towns like Capdepera, Son Servera, Cala Millor, Sa Coma, and San Llorens. You can find fun activities and gorgeous beaches.
