Cala Galdana Holidays
Cala Galdana Holidays – One of the most beautiful beaches in the Balearics
Considered one of the most picturesque bays in the whole of the Western Mediterranean, Cala Galdana is virtually unbeatable for a beach holiday. A sweeping, horse-shoe bay creates a perfect azure lagoon, encircled on both sides by high limestone cliffs. Tall, fragrant pine trees between the beach and main road provide welcome shade from the heat of the midday sun and a great spot for a picnic. The resort itself is quiet and peaceful; ideal for families with young children and older couples. Most of the nightlife here is hotel-based, but the nearby resorts of Cala'n Porter and Son Bou are easily accessible if you fancy a night on the town. The former capital Ciutadella, with its eclectic Moorish, Spanish and Baroque architecture makes for a lovely evening out, and Saturday mornings in neighbouring Ferreries are the place to bargain for handicrafts at the weekly traditional market.
When to go
As with all the resorts in the Balearic Islands, Cala Galdana will be busiest between June-August. This is also the hottest time of year, and the most expensive. The beach can get quite crowded by the end of July and into August, but generally you won’t have a problem finding a spot to enjoy the sun.
November-March are considered island’s winter months. This period is not recommended for Cala Galdana holidays, as the main draw of the resort is its beach and the weather will not be hot and sunny enough for a beach holiday.
For the best prices, consider going between April-May or September-October (avoiding the school holidays) – the weather at this times is pleasantly warm and the resort will not be overcrowded. What’s more, the heat is comfortable enough to enjoy activities such as walking and cycling that are not really ideal in the blistering heat of summer.
The weather in Cala Galdana
Cala Galdana enjoys a warm spring (April-May), with refreshing, crisp air. Temperatures will range between 18-21C. The summer season is long and hot, between June-August, and sees temperatures averaging 25-28C. Autumn starts in September and continues through October, with pleasantly warm average temperatures of 22-26C. November-March are the winter months, with a higher chance of rain as well as buffeting winds from the north. Temperatures during this time range between 14-18C on average throughout Menorca.
Getting the best deal
The best deals on package holidays to Cala Galdana are to be had by booking early. Popular hotels will sell out fast for peak season dates, so it’s important to get in there quick. Avoid travelling during school holidays and on bank holidays, as these times are much more expensive. Consider booking a self-catering room to save on spending when you’re at the resort.
Being flexible with when you take your holiday will also make a difference; June-August may be the hottest months, but they’re also the most expensive. Travelling in spring or autumn will give you the benefit of ‘off peak’ prices without compromising on the weather.
Airport and transport need to know
All international flights into Menorca will land at the Menorca Mahon airport (MAH). This is the sole hub on the island for charter flights. It is small but busy, especially in the summer, and has one terminal set across 2 tiers. There is a small selection of bars and restaurants here.
Flights to the Menorca from the UK operate from London Gatwick, Stansted and Luton, as well as regional hubs including Manchester, Liverpool and Norwich. There are 15 airports that offer flights to the island in all.
Although it is only around 22 miles from the airport to Cala Galdana, the roads connecting the two are not particularly fast and the journey can take up to 50 minutes to complete. Taxi is the easiest way to get there. Taxis are found outside the Arrivals hall and can accommodate up to 4 people. Child seats will not be available unless booked in advance over the phone. Taxis operate on a ‘fixed price’ basis and should cost around €35 to reach the resort.
Alternatively, you can take a shared shuttle bus, bookable through a number of coach companies out of the airport, including Shuttle Direct. Shuttle buses offer a cheaper alternative to taxis.
There is a public bus service from the airport; however this is the most time-consuming options and involves multiple changes. Get on the Airport-Mahon bus to the central bus depot in Mahon. Then take a NR.1 or NR.14 bus towards Ciutadella. When you reach Ciutadella, go to the bus stops located at the Town Hall Square, and catch the bus headed to Cala Galdana.
The best beaches in Cala Galdana
The south coast of Menorca is generally considered the most impressive on the island; although in reality there are stunning coves and bays no matter what coast you are on. The area around Cala Galdana is especially beautiful, with a number of stunning beaches just a few kilometres from each other. The beaches here tend to be of a less developed, wilder character than those found in Ibiza and Majorca, with less amenities and facilities such as watersports. Cala Galdana holidays are great for anyone who likes nature, peace and a break from crowded tourist areas.
Cala Galdana Beach
Anyone staying at Cala Galdana may wonder why on earth you’d look any further than the stunning beach found here. Known as the ‘The Queen of the Calas’, Cala Galdana beach certainly lives up to its reputation. A perfect horse-show bay forms a turquoise lagoon, with sheer cliffs encircling it. Pine trees provide shady respite from the sun. There is a variety of watersports on offer here, including scuba diving, as well as other activities such as mini-golf, cycling and boat trips. Being close to the resort of Cala Galdana, amenities such as shops and restaurants are never far away, and the shallow, warm waters make the beach ideal for families with young children.
Cala Macarella Beach
Cala Macarella beach is found to the west of Cala Galdana. It’s a pleasant 30 minute walk along a breezy coastal path, and well worth the effort – this is beach is snapping on the heels of Cala Galdana as contender for the prettiest beach on the Menorca. A small, undeveloped bay, the beach is opposite a wetland that’s home to eels and sea turtles, and next to canyon, giving it a wild, rugged feel. The beach is fairly uncrowded, and has no immediate facilities to speak of - although there are some 600m in Macarella town. This beach is popular with nudists.
Cala Mitjana
Cala Mitjana beach is located to the east of Cala Galdana – just cut through the Sol Gavilanes hotel and walk for 10 minutes up the main road. This is a secluded, undeveloped cove that is again incredibly picturesque. There are no amenities here to speak of – no pedaloes, watersports, sun beds or restaurants – so be sure to pack a picnic and cold drink. An excellent beach for those who like to avoid crowds and commercialism.
