Cala d’Or is a very upmarket resort area but surprisingly unspoilt despite all the development. Tiny sand beaches, backed by cliffs and pines, lure hordes of sun junkies every summer and the trendy town bursts at the seams with fancy restaurants and bars. In Cala d’Or every taste is catered for (at a price) and you won’t find a lager lout in sight. If you are prepared to dig into the rainy day fund, this can be a fun place to mingle with the jetset but bear in mind Cala d’Or is extremely popular in the summer so book ahead for a yacht berth in the marina and for a restaurant table to avoid disappointment!
The bay consists of three arms opening out from a single seaward entrance. The Cala d’Or Marina lies in the western arm (also known as Cala Llonga). The marina has room for over 500 vessels; both large and small. Although pricey this marina affords good protection from all wind directions (although it can be uncomfortable in strong easterlies) and offers excellent facilities in lavish surroundings so if money is no object add Cala d’Or to your list of potential overnight stops. To enter the marina follow the buoyed channel and instructions from marina staff.
A cheaper way to enjoy Cala d’Or is to drop anchor in one of the other coves and press the dingy into service. This can be trickier than it sounds. Swimming buoys are deployed in summer off most of the beaches which restrict anchoring space. Cala d’or (the middle arm of the three) does not afford as much shelter of the other two bays. An irritating swell can make life unpleasant here once the wind drops at night compared with elsewhere.
Cala d’Or is close to the Mondrago National Park. In Mandrago National Park there are two more excellent sand beaches and even less development; although several beach bars have been built to cater to thirsty tourists!
Cala d’Or is linked to several places by mini road trains, including Porto Petro, if you decide to take a look at the surrounding area and don’t fancy walking.