Free walking tours in Cala d'Or and what to see

Must-sees

Cala d'Or is a resort in the municipality of Santanyí, in south-east Majorca. Its hallmark is Ibiza-inspired white houses and a string of small clear-water coves surrounded by pines. Cala Gran, Cala d'Or, Cala Esmeralda, Cala Ferrera and Cala Egos can be explored on foot along paths and quiet streets. Between Cala d'Or and Cala Gran stands a small fort with sea views.

The marina, surrounded by terraces, is the place for an evening stroll. A few kilometres away is the Mondragó Natural Park, with the coves of Mondragó and s'Amarador and easy routes among pine forest and sandstone. Portopetro, an old fishing harbour, is also worth a visit, as is the village of Santanyí, with its golden stone church and weekly market.

Free tours and guided visits

Cala d'Or has no city-style free walking tours. The usual option is trips leaving from here: boat rides along the south coast to see the coves from the sea, kayak routes, snorkelling outings and crossings to the Cabrera archipelago from Colònia de Sant Jordi. If you want to see more of the island, there are full-day guided trips to the Caves of Drach in Porto Cristo, to Palma with a visit to the cathedral or to the Serra de Tramuntana. In Palma you will find free walking tours of the old town.

How long to spend

Two or three days are enough for the Cala d'Or area. Spend one exploring its coves on foot and the marina, another on Mondragó and nearby coves such as Caló des Moro or Cala Llombards, and a third on a boat trip or Santanyí. If you have a week, use it as a base for exploring the south and east of Majorca, with a trip to Palma.

Where to stay

The most convenient choice is to stay near Cala Gran and the centre, where the shops and restaurants are and several coves are within walking distance. The marina area is lively at night and practical for boat trips. If you want peace and quiet, Portopetro offers a more relaxed atmosphere a few minutes away. Either way, a car is advisable for exploring the rest of the south.