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Cala Galadana Menorca – Resort Guide With See and Do Tips

Sitting in perhaps the island’s  most photographed cove Cala Galdana is a firm beach and resort favourite on Menorca
This beautiful cove was formed by the small river Algendar and  today still defines the resort, splitting it literally into two distinct areas. On the westerly side, the main commercial area along with hotels and apartments extending up the hill-definitely holidayt resort. To the east is the main beach, which with the exception of the hotel Sol Galvines, is an atractive set of residential and holidays villas overlooking the bay-much more homely
This little river still  flows into the sea at Cala Galdana and enhances the natural beauty and charm of the resort. There are some beautiful walks along this rivers’ valley floor.
Often nick-named the “Queen of the Calas” Santa Cala Galdana, is one of the most beautiful pine clad bays in Menorca. The name itself is a corruption of the Moorish Guad-al-Ana (The Barranco of St Anne).
Cala Galdana lies at the end of the long river valley  and is reached through attractive countryside from Ferreries long the valley ridge and then the road dramatically sweeps down into the resort. 

The beach at Cala Galdana is a clasic horshore looking up to attractive 200m high cliffs , the whole being part of pine woodland. The sand falls gently into the waters and while this makes it ideal for the small children the resort is also popular with couples 20-60.

On the beach are water sports – Jet Skis, snorkelling, windsurfing, pedalos and is served by a number of beach side cafe Bar restaurants as well as public toilets.

The commercial area has bars and restaurants with varying tastes and prices. As they are mostly located together it is best to stroll and take the pick of the ones that take your fancy.
S’Escopinya bakery in the commercial centre is popular for freshly made sandwiches/ Simple meals as well as those with a big sweet tooth  for pastries. So what about venturing away from the pool  or beach side, what’s on offer?
How about a late afternoon / evening trip to Ciutadella is a most to stroll around the romantic old city, people watch at the Cafe Bars, take in a Tapas or two, do some shopping and watching the locals enjoy their city.
Ferreries by bus on a saturday morning where in the main square locals farmers and handicrafts people offer their wares in a very pleasant market.
There are  regular bus services to Ciutadella ( 4 time daily ), Ferreries ( 9 times daily ) At Ferreries you can change to other island destinations.
Castillo Menorca combines an  ‘out if town’  outlet store(clothing,perfumes) and souvenirs centre with indoor/outdoor childrens entertainment area. The whole set in extensive attractive grassed gardens and lots of parking. Ideal place for the children to loose their energy and mums to well, do what muns do best at outlet stores. The outdoor entertainment has lots to climb on,swim in,bounce on and swing from. Bordering the outside area is a for menorca large Snack Bar with internet access.
Next door is the Costa Nova Karting track , with decent sized track.
One big bonus of  Cala Galdana for those with a taste for something special  is that it sits between some beautiful virgin beaches.
Reachable by car (~10 mins.) from resort is Cala Mitjana und Mitjaneta. Reached on foot from the resort (~45 mins.)
There is also a wonderful coastal /inland walk to Cala Macarelleta and Cala Macarella duration approx. 50 Minutes. And then beyond to Cala en Turqueta, an exqusite beach ( 1 1/2 h).
There is a fantastic view of the bay from viewing points above the cliffs on the Mirador de Sa Punta reachable by car or up ( a lot) of steps on the eastern side of the beach.
Another, lower level, view of the resort is from the El Mirador bar situated on the rocky “island” at the western end of the beach.  The terraces offer views out to sea and across the bay itself – certainly worth a drink and a photograph.
Walks
This part of island has wonderful examples of what makes Menorcas southern coast beaches so beautiful and dreamy.  Santa Cala Galdana is just one example of this, it being situated at the end of the Algendar Gorge.
Activities
The Audax Hotel Sports & Nature Activities Centre offers a variety of activities such as hiking, rod fishing, mountain bike excursions, canoeing, diving and tennis.
Spa & Wellness
If you feel like being pampered there is a Spa facility open to non residents at the Hotel Audax Spa & Wellness Centre. Located at the Audax Hotel at the western edge of the beach. There is a beauty and 700 square metres relaxation centre with great views over the beach. The spa circuit lasts around one and a half hours.
Son Martorellet,  on the road to Sant Cala Galdana is an equestrian centre with horse shows and other activities. Open to visit the stables every day except Sunday from 10.00 to 13.00 and 15.00 to 20.00 hrs. Afternoon mini-show Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 15.30 hrs. Training of the horses Monday, Wednesday and Friday 18.00 to 20.00 hrs.
In the west of the island near to Ciutadella you will find more of the islands historical legacy.
Naveta des Tudons – Ancient monument, Son Catlar – prehistoric village, Cala Morells – extensive cave dwelling and burial chambers

Cala Galdana offers something for Younger Couples/Singles as well as family holidays in Menorca. Being one of the larger dedicated Menorcan holiday resorts Cala Galdana  has many facilities to offer for the perfect beach holiday.

About the Author

Graham has been visiting Menorca Resort Guides since childhood and contributes regularly to insightful holidaymaker guides to the island complete with personal photos and location maps. Discover Cala Galdana a firm Menorca favourite resort – Cala Galdana Tourist Guide Menorca.

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