Cala Ratjada Travel Guide

Discover the best places, activities, accommodations, and local culture of Cala Ratjada in Mallorca with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Cala Ratjada

Cala Ratjada is a picturesque coastal town located in the Llevant de Mallorca region of eastern Mallorca. This beautiful destination is known for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters, rocky cliffs, vibrant nightlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities. It’s a perfect spot for tourists who want to experience intense outdoor adventures and discover the rich cultural heritage of the Balearic Islands.

List of Places to Visit in Cala Ratjada

From historical sites to natural attractions, Cala Ratjada has something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Castell de Capdepera: Built-in 310, this magnificent fortress is an excellent place to explore the rich history of the area. It is one of the most significant remnants of medieval times in Mallorca.
  • Torre de Canyamel: This tower was later converted into a chapel in the 13th Century and has great historical significance. The tower offers great views of the town, so it’s worth a visit.
  • Museu Regional de Art: This museum showcases the art of the region and has an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and traditional crafts.

Natural Attractions of Cala Ratjada: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cala Agulla Beach: This beautiful crescent-shaped beach is surrounded by pine forests, and its turquoise waters make it a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Cala Lliteras Beach: This rocky beach is perfect for snorkeling and diving.
  • Cala Gat Beach: Another picturesque beach, known for its scenic views and water sports options.
  • Cami de Cavalls: This ancient coastal path will give you an opportunity to experience the beautiful views of the island and discover some of its hidden beaches.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cala Ratjada

Cala Ratjada is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The town provides a network of hiking and biking trails that lead to hidden coves, verdant forests, and stunning mountain views. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Cala Ratjada:

  • Cami de Cavalls: This coastal path offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea, cliffs, and vegetation.
  • Penyal des Migdies Trail: This hiking trail will take you to some fantastic viewpoints of the town and valley.
  • Cap des Freu Trail: A moderate hike that gives you a great view of the east coast of Mallorca and its bays.

Best Things to Do in Cala Ratjada: Activities and Tours

Cala Ratjada offers numerous activities and tours that will cater to your interests and preferences. Here are some of the best things to do while you’re in town.

  • Water sports: Jet skiing, paddle surfing, diving, and snorkeling are some of the popular activities to enjoy in the crystal-clear waters of Cala Ratjada.
  • Boat tours: Catamaran trips, sunset cruises, and sailing excursions are great options to explore the beautiful coast of Mallorca.
  • Nightlife: The town has a great nightlife scene with live music, bars, and clubs that cater to all kinds of party-goers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cala Ratjada

Cala Ratjada offers a lot of things to do and see. Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day Activity
Day 1 Relax at the Cala Agulla Beach
Day 2 Hiking along the Cami de Cavalls
Day 3 Scuba diving in Cala Lliteras
Day 4 A boat tour around the coast
Day 5 Visit the Castell de Capdepera
Day 6 Enjoy the waterpark Parc Aquàtic supplied with slides and pools
Day 7 Nightlife at one of the local bars and clubs

Food and Drink Scene of Cala Ratjada

Cala Ratjada is known for its Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks in the town:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arros Brut: A hearty stew made with rice, chicken, pork, vegetables, and broth, and served with a dollop of aioli.
  • Llangosta Stew: Another traditional Balearic dish that features spiny lobsters, tomatoes, and potatoes in a savory broth.
  • Pa amb oli: This typical Balearic bread is made with olive oil, tomatoes, and garlic, served with a variety of toppings.

Local Beverages

  • Herbes de Mallorca: A sweet herbal liqueur made with aniseed, chamomile, fennel, and other aromatic herbs.
  • Hierbas: A traditional Majorcan liquor made with anise, cinnamon, and other herbs.

Where to Stay in Cala Ratjada: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cala Ratjada has a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and taste. Here are some of the best options:

  • Sensimar Aguait Resort & Spa: A four-star hotel that offers beautiful sea views, luxurious amenities, and an on-site spa.
  • Son Moll Sentits Hotel & Spa: A boutique hotel that provides a romantic atmosphere, excellent service, and a fantastic rooftop bar with panoramic views.
  • Hostal Gami: A budget-friendly option that offers clean, comfortable rooms and a central location.

What to Buy in Cala Ratjada: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cala Ratjada has some fantastic shopping opportunities. Here are some products that you can take back home as souvenirs:

  • Pearl jewelry: The town is known for its high-quality Majorica pearls, which are available in various stores.
  • Galletes: These are traditional Majorcan cookies that come in different flavors and shapes.
  • Olive Oil: Mallorca is known for producing high-quality olive oil, so it is an excellent gift to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Cala Ratjada

Cala Ratjada is strongly influenced by the Balearic culture, which is characterized by its vibrant fiestas, traditional festivals, and flavorful cuisine. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and they take great pride in their history and culture.

Best Time to Visit Cala Ratjada

The best time to visit Cala Ratjada is from May to September, when the weather is sunny and warm, and the water temperature is perfect for swimming and water activities. The town is a popular summer destination, so expect crowds during this period.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cala Ratjada

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash on the beach or in public areas.
  • Disrespect the environment or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cala Ratjada

Cala Ratjada is a safe destination for tourists, with low levels of crime. However, it’s always a good idea to take general safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings

Health in Cala Ratjada

The town has excellent medical facilities, so there should be no worries regarding your health. Stay hydrated and carry enough sunscreen while venturing outdoors.

Getting to Cala Ratjada: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cala Ratjada

The Palma de Mallorca International Airport is the closest airport to Cala Ratjada, which is 80 km south-west in Palma de Mallorca. From the airport, take a bus or a taxi to the Cala Ratjada bus station.

Bus Stations Near Cala Ratjada

Cala Ratjada has a well-connected bus network that connects it to other parts of Mallorca. You can catch a bus to Palma, Ciutadella, or Alcudia.

Other Options

Taxis and rental cars are readily available in Cala Ratjada. It’s a great way to explore the nearby attractions and the beautiful countryside.

How to Get Around in Cala Ratjada

The town is small and compact, so it’s easy to explore on foot. Buses and taxis are readily available for travelers who want to venture further.

Where to Go Next from Cala Ratjada: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cala Ratjada is surrounded by many other beautiful towns and villages that are worth exploring. Here are some nearby destinations that you can visit:

  • Capdepera: A charming town that houses the famous Castell de Capdepera and the historic center.
  • Can Picafort: A seaside town that boasts of its stunning beaches, nature parks, and architectural heritage.
  • Cuevas de Arta: These ancient caves are an excellent hiking and caving destination, with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formations.

Conclusion

Cala Ratjada is a perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the natural beauty, rich culture, and genuine hospitality of Mallorca. With its breathtaking beaches, stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, lively nightlife, and fantastic cuisine, it has something to offer for everyone. It’s a must-visit destination in Mallorca.

The beach of Cala Moltò in Cala Ratjada, surrounded by rocks The beach of Cala Moltò in Cala Ratjada, surrounded by rocks Weathered wooden pillar on the rocks between the harbour of Cala Rjada and the beach of Son Moll Weathered wooden pillar on the rocks between the harbour of Cala Rjada and the beach of Son Moll Cala Ratjada Harbour Cala Ratjada Harbour