'In Majorca's north east, well-equipped, cosmopolitan Cala Ratjada offers an array of heartbreakingly pretty beaches on its doorstep – just take your pick.'
If you like to rotate your beaches day by day, Cala Ratjada will keep you as happy as a sandboy. Having evolved from a fishing hamlet into an upbeat resort, this appealing north-eastern town has one star feature – it's within touching distance of several stupendous beaches.
Tucked into a craggy coastline, its centrepiece isn't a beach however, but a modern marina. Here, where once only fishing boats bobbed, rows of yachts now flash in the sun. All around , you'll be welcomed at animated bars and fish restaurants, their outdoor tables providing perfect pitstops amid the cosmopolitan, buzzy ambience. And once that's put you in the mood, saunter around the shops behind the waterfront, picking up souvenirs as you go.
In the beach department, it's a case of eeny, meeny, miny, mo. While the main beaches at Son Moll and Cala Gat offer Blue Flag commended sands and waters, they're pretty popular, so you may want to escape somewhere quieter. Take the coastal path northwards and you'll discover more peaceful coves including pretty Cala Agulla and dreamy Cala Mesquida, where piercingly blue waters rustle up against powdery sands.
Beach cravings satisfied, make time to discover the older Majorca. Head to medieval Capdepera to check out its 13th century castle and market. Continue to Arta to see its impressive caves or enjoy the picturesque countryside with a round of golf or a horseback ride. Alternatively, hop on a hydrofoil to charming Menorca.
Come nightfall, enter into Ratjada's spirit by trawling its popular bars and discos and enjoying a wild night out. Or for something more sedate, sit down to a lingering supper under the light of the glowing Majorcan moon.
The pine clad hills that lead into the resort provide many a walking opportunity if your beach becomes a little too sedate, or alternatively you can try another beach! There are many in the area and some real gems to be discovered. The area is also dotted with some top-quality championship courses for the golf lovers. If you are interested in more cultural pursuits, the medieval village of Capdepera is only a short distance away. Here you can take in the stunning views as you walk around the battlements of the island's largest castle, built in the 13th century. You can then move on to the pretty town of Arta to complete an historic day-trip.
Find the cheapest late deals to Cala Ratjada leaving in the next six weeks.
Cala Ratjada hotels and apartments
Our hotels and apartments in Cala Ratjada include Grupotel Aguait.
More Majorca holiday destinations
Looking for holidays in Majorca? Our Majorca holiday destinations include Alaro, Alcudia, Ca'n Picafort, Caimari, Cala Bona, Cala D'or, Cala Estancia, Cala Millor, Cala Ratjada, Cala San Vicente, Calas De Mallorca, Camp De Mar, Campanet, Costa De Los Pinos, Deya, Illetas, Magaluf, Paguera, Palma, Palma Nova, Playa De Muro, Playa De Palma, Pollensa, Puerto De Soller, Puerto Pollensa, Pula Golf, Son Severa, S'horta, Sa Coma, Sa Pobla, Santa Margalida, Santa Ponsa and Santanyi.
Beaches
There are a good selection of beaches for you to soak up the sun on. The two small beaches, Cala Gat and Son Moll, are often busy so you may want to try Cala Agulla which is long and sandy. If you keep going along the coastal path - a fine walk if you have the urge - you can make it all the way to Cala Mesquida, which possesses fantastic wide and tranquil sands on which to lay your towel. Taking a boat down the spectacular coast is a leisurely way to take your pick of the beaches.
Eating out
The best restaurants can be found around the harbour, where you'll not only have great food but also a great view. Cala Ratjada is still a working fishing port and so the best option on the menu is the seafood: you know it'll always be fresh and cooked just how they've been doing for hundreds of years.
Nightlife
The nightlife here is vibrant: local bars jostle with modern clubs for your custom. There are numerous places where you can dance until dawn or, if you prefer, watch the world go by. For others out for a more relaxed evening, enjoy the food, drink and ambience.
Shopping
The main streets here are wall-to-wall tourist shops so it's a dream come true for the souvenir hunters who won't be short of gifts for friends back home. There is a regular market at Placa del Pins and at Capodepera for those who are looking for more than the trinkets available in Cala Ratjada. The resort has an array of supermarkets and shops for your everyday needs.
Local information
You won't have to go far for an interesting day trip. The village of Capdepera possesses the largest castle on the island and is only 5km away. Just a little further on you'll come across Arta, another historic town. Arta also has caves that can be explored with a tour guide. For walking enthusiasts the hills that form Cala Ratjada's backdrop make for great hiking territory.
Location
100km north east of Palma
Transfer time
1 hour
Recommended
Luxury
