Visiting Cala en Bosch, Menorca
Menorca’s southwestern shores are as pretty as a picture, and this is where three popular resorts merge into one.
Cap d’Artrutx offers views of neighbouring Mallorca, and is perfect for lovers of the great outdoors. From here you can hike the famous Camí de Cavalls coastal trail north to Ciutadella or to Cala en Bosch and beyond. Enjoy long lazy lunches dining in local eateries and watching the sunset from the striped lighthouse on the peninsula.
Adjoining to the east, you’ll find lively Cala en Bosch, a family-friendly resort with both mid-range and upscale hotels – home to a beautiful sandy beach with plenty of amenities and a lively boat-filled marina encircled by shops, bars and international restaurants.
Then there’s Son Xoriguer – a charming cluster of whitewashed low-rise hotels and villas positioned amid patchwork vegetation. You can spend relaxing days on hidden beaches, swimming in the clearest waters you’ve ever seen, enjoying lunch in a chiringuito, or partaking in a whole host of water activities.
A Brief History of Cala en Bosch
Back in the 17th century, the area of Cala en Bosch was about as far removed from a beach resort as you could get. The region was focused on agriculture – the mild climate and fertile terrain made it a prime location for farming.
A century later, when Menorca was under British rule, the area was flagged as a strategic location on the southwestern shores of the island and utilised as a military base for the Navy.
Then in the 20th century, the Balearics began to transform into key holiday destinations for northern Europeans. Cala en Bosch close to Ciutadella, Menorca’s second city, was ripe for development. Its beautiful unspoiled beaches, crystalline waters and stunning landscapes were sure to attract tourists.
Since the 1980s, the resort has flourished, with an array of hotels, bars, shops, and restaurants on offer, and a variety of activities to enjoy on both land and sea.
Getting to Cala en Bosch
If you’re flying into Menorca, you’ll land at the island’s only airport near Mahon. It’s not difficult to reach Cala en Bosch from Mahon, especially if you’re renting a car. You simply drive along the Me-1, the island’s main motorway and join the Me-24 heading south at Ciutadella. The entire journey takes around 50 minutes and is well-signposted.
If you’d prefer to take a taxi, prices start around €70 each way, although it can be a little more expensive if travelling in the evenings.
If arriving via the ferry from Barcelona or Mallorca, you’ll likely disembark in Ciutadella (although some ferries also arrive into Mahon). From Ciutadella port, it’s a quick 12 min drive to Cala en Bosch.
If you’re travelling as a foot passenger, you can take the number 65 bus from Plaça del Pins in Ciutadella. It costs around €2 for a single trip, and takes around 15 mins.
Things to do in Cala en Bosch & Surrounds
The best things to do in Cala en Bosch, Son Xoriguer and Cap d’Artrutx can be as exciting or as subdued as you please. Whether you’re travelling with kids in tow, on a hiking trip, or just want to sip chilled pomada under a parasol – you’re well catered for in this corner of Menorca.
Beach Fun
The white sand beach in the bay of Cala en Bosch leads to clear shallow waters perfect for little ones to splash around in.
You can relax on a lounger beneath a parasol to read the latest paperback, rent a self-drive boat to cruise the coastline, or even head out into the Med on a water bike.
Nearby, the marina offers a selection of shops, bars and restaurants for lunch if you need a break from the sand.
Wander along the cami from here and you’ll find a series of small coves that the locals love. I often find there’s a small swell at these hidden beaches, ideal for kids who like to ride on a bodyboard!
The next large cove to the east is Son Xoriguer Beach. Backed by lush vegetation and whitewashed villas, it’s a delightful spot for sun-worshipping.
The beach, like Cala en Bosch, is geared for families and activity lovers with a variety of watersports from diving to windsurfing, plus the waters are calm for swimming.
You can rent hammocks and loungers for the day, and there are several superb places to eat and drink close by.
Learn to Dive
If you’ve always been fascinated with what lies beneath the ocean, book a thrilling dive excursion with Bluewater Menorca Diving Centre.
Beginners and intermediate divers will enjoy an underwater excursion with a marine biologist, discovering the diverse underwater world of Menorca.
If you’re visiting Cala en Bosch between May and July, you may even see common stingrays at the sandy bay of Son Xoriguer, as they arrive every year to breed.
The more experienced can dive among boulders at the Slipway, swim through the labyrinth at the Grand Canyons, or explore the Lighthouse – home to a reef-covered wall brimming with sea life.
Menorca is also a great place to earn your SSI Open Water Certification if you plan to continue your diving adventures at other sites around the world.
Visit Artrutx Lighthouse
On the tip of the peninsula, at the southwesterly point of Menorca, you’ll discover the striking 19th-century Cap d’Artrutx Lighthouse. Like the Favaritx lighthouse in the north, it’s painted in black and white horizontal stripes, giving it a distinctly cinematic vibe.
You can walk to the lighthouse along the Cami de Cavalls from Cala en Bosch admiring its structure – learning about the early days when it was powered by olive oil!
The lighthouse was reformed in 1969 and extended from 17 to 34 metres in height with buttresses added to aid its stability. Later, it was automated, and the old keeper’s accommodation was converted into a bar & restaurant that offers incredible sunset vistas!
Explore Cova Des Pardals
Cova Des Pardals is a short walk east of Son Xoriguer, accessible via the Cami de Cavalls. The name translates to “Cave of the Sparrows” referring to a significant number of the bird species that reside in the area.
Legend tells that it was once used as a smuggler’s hideout – a place where fishermen would store items that were scarce after the war, such as coffee and tobacco.
You’ll also notice that above the cave, there’s a tiny white house. There’s a hatch in the floor that communicates down into the cave for ease of offloading the goods.
Today, you can access the ancient sea cave via a set of steps carved into the earth.
The subterranean destination provides a perfect escape from the midday heat. Or you can sunbathe on the rocks and enjoy dips into the aquamarine waters in this serene hideaway.
Take Part in Watersports
For many, getting out on the water – whether it be sailing, paddling, or snorkelling – is a highlight of any Menorcan stay. Fortunately, many companies are operating along the southern coastline – including in Cala en Bosch and Son Xoriguer – offering equipment rentals and organised excursions throughout the year.
You can rent a small sailboat without a license to enjoy a day trip as a couple or group, go paddle surfing with friends or even learn how to kayak, wing foil or windsurf.
Local companies, such as Surf and Sail Menorca organise private boat tours along the coastline, introducing you to hidden gems often inaccessible on foot.
Hike the Cami de Cavalls to Son Saura
If you fancy embarking on a short, yet scenic hike from Cala en Bosch, walk east along section 12 of the historic Cami de Cavalls trail to Son Saura beach. The hike one way will take around an hour and a half at a steady pace – not that you’ll notice the time passing by! The scenery en route is sublime.
Departing Cala en Bosch, you’ll pass the beach at Son Xoriguer heading in the direction of Cova des Pardals. Make a stop to explore the cave and take a refreshing dip before continuing along the rugged pathway towards Platja de Son Vell – a nearby secluded cove.
You’ll also pass by historic stone bunkers before reaching your destination of Son Saura – two exquisite beaches divided by rocky outcrops sweeping to clear turquoise waters.
The fine white sands of Son Saura Beach are backed by dense, shady pine forests, perfect for a picnic stop. Follow the wooden boardwalk, built to protect nesting turtles, and find a spot on the beach for relaxation or take a dip in shallow waters to cool off before starting your return journey.
Or Hike West to Ciutadella
Set off early morning from Cala en Bosch, walking in the direction of Cap d’Artrutx using the lighthouse as your guide. Then join stage 11 of the Cami de Cavalls, hiking north along the coast to Ciutadella.
This is a spectacular trail with dramatic scenery. The pathways are punctuated with historic sites, endemic flora and fauna and beautiful coves and beaches which are often deserted.
En route, look out for wild rosemary and winter heather, or if you’re hiking in spring, wild orchids add pops of colour along the trail. You’ll pass a pre-Talayotic naveta (funerary chamber) behind Cala Blanca, which you can explore before stopping for a late breakfast or lunch by the sea.
From here, continue onto Sa Caleta and Santandria Tower, a 19th-century Martello tower built to protect Menorca’s former capital. When you arrive in the city, take your time to explore the historic sites, museums and markets before catching the number 65 bus back to Cala en Bosch later in the day or evening.
Catch the Shuttle Boat to Cala Galdana
Cala Galdana is one of Menorca’s most coveted beaches. The journey by shuttle boat allows you to see the coastline from a different perspective while sipping drinks and spotting marine life.
When you arrive, step onto a half-moon beach of soft white sands warmed by the sun and shaded by pine trees. Spend a few hours swimming, snorkelling or soaking up the sun’s rays or partake in the variety of watersports on offer.
You can break for lunch in a typical Menorcan eatery or take away a gourmet picnic for your return journey. If time permits before your boat departs, head for Mirador Sa Punta to take incredible photos of the bay.
Hire a Boat to Visit Hidden Beaches
In Menorca, you don’t need a license to hire a small boat and it’s a fun way to discover some of the island’s off-the-beaten-path beaches and coastlines.
Most self-skippered boats carry between two and six passengers with a canopy on top for shade, and they come with insurance, fuel, GPS and a cooler box for your picnic.
You can navigate a boat to Platja des Talaier or Cala Turqueta, a beautiful natural bay with fine white sand and crystalline waters.
There’s also the neighbouring Calas, Macarella and Macarelleta – the latter, a rustic picture-postcard landscape sandwiched between rocky headlands and Aleppo and Stone pines – a beach that has graced the covers of many a travel magazine.
Take a Sunset Boat Cruise
If you prefer an expert to captain your boat, book this two-hour sunset cruise to experience Menorca at golden hour. You’ll encounter some of the island’s famous landmarks, and you can sip on cava as you cruise.
Sail along the coastline, passing Cap d’Artrutx lighthouse as you head towards Ciutadella along the west coast. You’ll have opportunities to photograph the iconic Pont d’en Gil – a natural arch and the harbour of Ciutadella while relaxing on board.
Don’t forget to look the other way – on a clear evening, you can see the outline of neighbouring Mallorca as it settles in for the night.
Best Places to Eat in Cala en Bosch
When hunger strikes in Cala en Bosch, you’re never far away from a scrumptious meal. And with so much choice on offer, you can eat a different cuisine every night!
Neo Mediterranean Ideas
Set behind Son Xoriguer Beach, Neo Mediterranean Ideas serves a fusion menu of Asian and Mediterranean dishes made with market-fresh ingredients. You can tuck into delicious sushi rolls, gyoza and seafood, and sip on bespoke cocktails on the chic dining terrace.
We make the pilgrimage here from our apartment in Son Parc every time we visit – it’s that good! Don’t miss the homemade nachos with fresh guacamole and salsa brava.
Foc Eco Brasserie
Foc Brasserie is part of the adults-only Lago Resort in Cala en Bosch, but you don’t have to be a guest of the upscale hotel to appreciate the flavours on offer. Making use of a charcoal grill, meat features heavily on the menu. But vegans are well catered for too.
Trattoria Ciao Belli
Another characterful restaurant is Trattoria Ciao Belli in Cala en Bosch. With a delightful antique and gastronomy-inspired interior and outdoor seating by the marina, it’s a family-friendly spot to enjoy Italian favourites such as hand-fired pizzas to pasta, grilled fish and tiramisu.
Other Things to do Around Cala en Bosch
Cala en Bosch makes a great base if you want an easy beach break. But to make the most of your time in Menorca, I’d recommend planning a few day trips during your stay too. Here are some must-see places near Cala en Bosch.
Ciutadella
Ciutadella lies just nine kilometres from Cala en Bosch. Drive to the city or hop on a bus (#65) to explore Old Town treasures and historic landmarks. The city has a kind of understated glamour, evidenced in its pastel-hued residences, Catalan Gothic cathedral and cloisters.
You can visit the Municipal Market for tapas and café am llet, visit art-filled Casa Olivar or sample Menorcan gin at sundown by the harbour.
Read More: Best Things to do in Ciutadella
Cala Morell
Cala Morell offers a unique contrast to other beach resorts on the island. This little settlement in the northwest is undeveloped, surrounded by red rocks and bathing platforms with ladders to access the water. It’s the perfect retreat for a day of swimming or snorkelling followed by a tasty lunch at a trendy chiringuito.
Read More: Guide to Cala Morell
Cala Macarella & Cala Macarelleta
Split into two coves, these beaches are set amid some of Menorca’s wild, unfettered landscapes. Both are revered by locals and tourists alike and their popularity shows during the summer months.
If you’re venturing here with family, Cala Macarella is more suited to young kids, however, if you’re seeking that postcard-perfect shot and you don’t mind a short scenic walk from the bus stop or car park, head for Cala Macarelleta.
Read More: Visiting Cala Macarella & Cala Macarelleta in Menorca
Cala en Bosch Key Things to Know
Cala en Bosch, Son Xoriguer, and Cap d’Artrutx are mostly seasonal destinations, which means you won’t find a lot open during the quieter times of the year (late October to April).
But during the “tourist season”, you’ll find everything you need on your doorstep. There’s car hire, several supermarkets, and there are petrol stations and ATMs available throughout the area.
Where to Stay in Cala en Bosch
The choice is yours when it comes to selecting accommodation in Cala en Bosch. Rent self-contained apartments or holiday villas, take advantage of the facilities at family-friendly resorts, or spoil yourself with a luxurious stay.
Lago Resort
Lago Resort deserves a second mention here as it’s the place to be for couples or friends who seek cohesive and eco-conscious accommodation. Elegant surrounds and delicious dining options complete the scene.
GM House Minorca
GM House Minorca is a beautifully appointed 2-bedroom holiday apartment. It features a shared swimming pool, a private balcony, and you can even bring your pets along. Set right on the Marina, you’ll be steps away from the action!
MarSenses Paradise Club
MarSenses Paradise Club offers a more family-friendly option, with several different rooms and apartments to suit. It’s also all-inclusive, so there will be no arguments over where to eat dinner!
Read More: Best Places to Stay in Menorca
Cala en Bosch and the surrounding resorts are a lively, energetic place, with beautiful beaches, excellent swimming, shopping and dining options. You can enjoy leisurely hikes to secluded coves, take day trips to Ciutadella and even pilot your own boat around the coast. The area truly caters to all ages and makes a great base from which to explore the south and west of the island.
