A perfect getaway destination for couples or families looking for a quiet holiday away from the hustle and bustle of larger resorts, Cala Bona retains much of its traditional Spanish chic.

Cala Bona - Majorca's hidden gem

Situated on the quiet east coast of Majorca, Cala Bona is a hidden jewel of golden beaches, small fishing harbour and low white buildings with views of the Punta de n'Amer headland, a 200 hectare nature reserve rising green and lush to the south.

Fifty years ago it was not much more than a fishing village set in spectacular landscape, but over time it has grown to accommodate a thriving tourist economy. However, this does not ruin the town's outlook, as it retains its original layout - a maze of tiny winding streets fronted with houses and cafes - and a small fishing harbour, all set along a beautiful golden beach stretching two kilometres to the next town, Cala Millor.

Things to do in Cala Bona 

Whether you're on a couples retreat or a family holiday, there's lots to see and do in Cala Bona and its surroundings. If lazing on golden beaches and snorkelling around the rocky outcrops looking for fish isn't enough, then an easy stroll down the promenade will take you all the way to Cala Millor, with its shops, bars and restaurants. The promenade is well-maintained and lit and the walk should not take more than thirty minutes. Taxi journeys between the two resorts take only five minutes or so if walking back doesn't appeal.

 

If you're looking for something a little more active, there is a local stables called Rancho Willy which does countryside hacks; the minimum ride time is 90 minutes. Visitors to Cala Bona after the summer are offered two-day rides with overnight accommodation at around €60 per person.

 

For those with children, visits to Cala Millor's Fantasy Park or Karting tracks are a good way to tire them out for a more sedate afternoon back at the hotel pool or on the beach. 

Glass bottomed boats are also popular and regularly run out from Cala Bona north towards Cala Ratjada or south towards Porto Cristo. The warmth of the sea encourages a wide variety of fish which can be seen through the bottom, and the captain usually stops the boat for half an hour or so midway through the tour to allow guests to swim and snorkel.

 
If you wish to explore further afield, a trip to the Caves of Drach is a must. Within the weirdly beautiful caves, spined with stalactites and stalagmites, is what is thought to be one of the largest subterranean lakes in the world. Unpolluted and untouched, the water is stunningly clear and, partway through the exploration, tourists take to boats and sail through the waters of Lake Martel to the other end. 

Where to stay

Cala Bona has a range of accommodation to suit every budget, with hotels and apartments lining the beachfront and overlooking the harbour. Most have beautiful views and are either three or four-star quality. 

The Hotel Levante is four-star and located on the beach; all rooms are air-conditioned with terrace or balcony, fridges, safety deposit boxes and more. There is lots of onsite entertainment to suit guests of all ages, as well as a pool, games room and restaurant.

The Hotel Cala Bona is a three-star hotel overlooking the harbour. Again, all rooms are air-conditioned with drinks facilities, fridges, hair-dryers and safety deposit boxes. This hotel has a games room, internet connection, bar, restaurant, pool bar, pool and more. 

If looking to stay in an apartment, the Bahai Apartments give guests access to facilities at the nearby Floriana resort, which includes a sauna, gym, jacuzzi, playground and tennis courts as well as all of the amenities offered by the properties mentioned above. 

Visiting Cala Bona

If you decide to holiday in beautiful Cala Bona, then travel providers such as Jetline can book holidays in advance or as last minute deals. 

A quiet holiday that can nonetheless be packed with activity should you choose, Cala Bona is one of the best choice resorts on the east coast of Majorca. Jetline has a wealth of experience in helping customers choose the right accommodation, time to visit - the best season is between April and October - and supplements such as the riding experience or accommodation during the International Hot Air Balloon Regatta, which takes place during the last five days of October.