Cala Varques: Mallorca’s Bohemian Paradise

4 min readJun 19, 2023

Discover an Untouched, Idyllic Beach in the Southeastern Corner of Mallorca

Welcome to Cala Varques, a serene, off-the-beaten-path beach on the enchanting island of Mallorca. Tucked between the lively resort towns of Porto Cristo and Porto Colom, Cala Varques is a haven of bohemian allure. It’s not uncommon to stumble upon creative individuals offering handcrafted jewelry, cool beverages, or charming keepsakes during your stay.

This beach has earned its place among the top 20 beaches in Mallorca, and it’s easy to see why.

Cala Varques is a hidden cove, boasting 90 meters of immaculate white sand, flanked by the crystal-clear, deep blue sea. The beach is encased by low-lying rocky cliffs and verdant trees, painting a picture-perfect scene. It’s a beloved spot among locals and tourists alike, particularly couples in search of a tranquil beach day. Naturists also find this beach a sanctuary. However, with no restaurants, facilities, or water sports rentals, it may not be the first choice for families. There are no sun loungers or umbrellas for rent either. During the peak of summer, you might spot vendors selling refreshments and snacks, but it’s wise to bring your own provisions since the nearest town is a good 10 kilometers away.

Designing Your Dream Beach Vacation

If you’re fantasizing about a beach vacation, imagine residing at a plush beachfront hotel in Mallorca, with the Mediterranean sea just steps away and awe-inspiring views from your balcony. Mallorca presents some of the finest seafront accommodations on the Balearic island.

Navigating to the Beach and Safety Precautions

Reaching Cala Varques is an adventure in itself. You’ll navigate a gravel road off the main road, park your vehicle in the complimentary parking area, and then embark on a 15-minute trek through a pine forest before you reach the beach. Consequently, the beach isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or strollers. Public transport isn’t an option either. An alternative mode of arrival is by boat, anchoring offshore where the water is deep enough, and then swimming or taking a dinghy ride to the beach. However, bear in mind that there are no port facilities, with the closest ones located in Porto Cristo.

There’s no lifeguard on duty, and the beach lacks showers, changing stations, or toilets.

Engaging in Activities at Cala Varques

Cala Varques is a paradise for snorkeling, swimming, and unwinding. The low rocky cliffs provide some diving spots, and the water gets deeper further out. The cliffs and surrounding pine forests also offer beautiful walks. You might find a few vendors selling handmade items or fresh drinks, but primarily, the beach is for those who simply want to savor the beach.

Related: Kayak Secret Beach

Lodging Near Cala Varques

Cala Varques itself doesn’t house any restaurants or hotels. The closest accommodations can be found in Porto Colom or Porto Cristo, which offer luxury holiday villa rentals and some of Mallorca’s top hotels.

Venturing Around Cala Varques

There’s a plethora of fantastic beaches around Cala Varques, including Cales de Mallorca and Cala Murada. The nearest resort towns, Porto Colom to the south and Porto Cristo to the north, offer a variety of hotels, restaurants, shops, and other amenities like a tourist office. Despite its relatively small size, Porto Colom boasts a remarkable number of excellent restaurants, making it an ideal stop for a meal. This fishing village/resort town, named after Christopher Columbus, who is said tohave been born here, is an excellent starting point for exploring the beaches along the southeast coast. For golf lovers, the Vall d’Or Golf Club offers a beautiful 18-hole course with top-notch facilities and a delightful restaurant named Maxime’s.

Porto Cristo is another charming, family-friendly resort town and an old fishing harbour. It’s brimming with restaurants, shops, and activities, making it an excellent choice for a holiday base or an afternoon visit.

One of the must-do activities for both children and adults is a trip to the Cuevas del Drac or the Cuevas d’Arta, which are within easy driving distance from Cala Varques. These guided tours take you deep beneath the cliffs to marvel at the spectacular formations.

Unveiling Mallorca’s Best Beaches

We hope this guide to Cala Varques has been helpful and inspires you to create unforgettable memories in Mallorca. We always appreciate your feedback, so feel free to share your experiences. Enjoy your time in Mallorca!