Visiting Cala Morell | Menorca’s Best-Kept Secret
Cala Morell in Menorca is unlike many other coastal destinations on the island. It’s the exact place where two geological zones of the north and south of the island meet. The diminutive resort sits on the northwest of the island – a spectacular canvas of red coastal cliffs, pine forests, azure waters and whitewashed houses.
With a small pebble beach at its core, the sun-soaked bathing platforms that surround the bay invite you to swim, snorkel or dive. During daylight hours, you can hike the Cami de Cavalls trails, seek out prehistoric caves, take a drive to Ciutadella, or meander through ancient Talayotic archaeological sites.
At sunset, find a seat in a charming restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, order a refreshing pomada and feast on typical Menorcan cuisine.
Cala Morell appeals to those searching for the undiscovered – the rare spots still relatively untouched by tourism. Whether you arrive for a day trip or make this your holiday base, you’re sure to fall in love with the lesser-known Menorcan hideaway.
A Brief History of Cala Morell
The areas surrounding Cala Morell were once home to a pre-Talayotic settlement – one of 32 discovered in Menorca. Radiocarbon dating and artefacts found in the area show that the dry stone settlement, built on rocky outcrops overlooking the bay, was occupied between 1600 and 1200 BC.
When the Talayotic peoples left the area, Cala Morell remained untouched for centuries – that is, until around 50 years ago when Enric Ventura decided to create a residential urbanisation in the area. A serene collection of white Balearic-style buildings tiered along the shoreline, designed to embody the very essence of Menorcan life.
Enric’s vision was to create a resort of sorts, without harming the natural environment or landscapes. All of the characteristics are derived from nature, even the streetlights were based on the shapes of the pre-historic caves in the area.
Of late, a different chalet-style property has emerged, with some locals believing that the structures go against the traditional urbanisation style. However, they do little to detract from Enric’s original vision, with the resort still as idyllic and picture-perfect as it was half a century ago.
Getting to Cala Morell
Getting to Cala Morell from Menorca Airport takes less than an hour. It’s an easily navigable journey by rental car (which I always recommend for visitors to Menorca) along the Me-1, joining the RC-1 north and the Carreterra Cami de Cala Morell just outside Ciutadella.
Taking a day trip from Ciutadella? Drive out of the city on the RC-2 and join the above road to Cala Morell. It takes around 15 minutes.
The car park in Cala Morell is very small, with only space for around 30-40 cars. However, there is also roadside parking available throughout the small urbanization.
During the summer months, public buses operate from Ciutadella to Cala Morell. You can hop aboard the #62 at Placa del Pins or Via Perimetral. The journey time is around 25 minutes.
It is possible to reach Cala Morell by bus from Mahon, but it’s a long journey with changes along the way, therefore I wouldn’t recommend it as a day trip from the capital.
If you prefer your transfers with less hassle, taxis are available from Menorca Airport costing approximately €60-70 including luggage one way. From Ciutadella, expect to pay around €15 for a single journey.
Things to do in Cala Morell
Cala Morell is a resort for connecting with nature. You won’t find orchestrated tourist attractions or shopping malls here. Instead, you’ll discover open-air museums, pre-historic settlements and beautiful, scenic coastal hikes along the Cami de Cavalls to hidden beaches. Read on for more ideas of what to do on a holiday in Cala Morell.
Snorkelling, Diving, Bathing & Swimming
While not your typical beach destination, Cala Morell does have an advantage when it comes to underwater activities. One of the best snorkelling and dive sites on the island, you’ll be enthralled with the variety of fish and other marine life living in and around the coral. Watch out for octopus, starfish, stingrays, moray eels, and flying fish as you snorkel around the cove!
Experienced divers can also discover underwater caves, such as that under Elephant Rock, and swim through the famous “long tunnel” where no light penetrates…
Those after a more sedate experience can bring a picnic and enjoy the peace and tranquillity on the bathing platforms, while taking intermittent dips in the Med to cool off. There are ladders for easy access, but jumping in is half the fun!
Visit the Necropolis of Cala Morell
A necropolis is a kind of pre-historic cemetery – a place where stone tombs reside, and where pre-Talayotic people were buried.
Although the concept may sound sombre, the necropolis in Cala Morell, dating back to 1600 BC, makes for an interesting place to visit. This unique maze of 14 man-made funerary caves is located in a shady ravine a short walk from the beach.
The caves consist of unusual geology. While walking around you can make out windows, floors, water storage facilities, internal pillars and much more, giving the impression that the necropolis was quite grand at one time.
It’s one of the most important archaeological sites in Menorca, and it’s free to enter. If you’re spending time in Cala Morell, be sure to make time to visit.
Hike the Camà de Cavalls to Cala Algaiarens
One of the best walks from Cala Morell begins at the necropolis, venturing east past Mirador Cala Morell (fantastic viewpoint) towards Cala Algaiarens.
This section of the Cami de Cavalls trail leads you past vivid red coastal landscapes, farmland, pine forests and coastal bush (complete with grazing donkeys). Make a photo stop at the viewpoint near Codolar de Biniatram, overlooking the bay of Cala Algaiarens, pass the deserted beach of Cala Fontanelles and detour to Aljub de Corniola, an ancient, preserved rainwater cistern.
Upon arrival at Cala Algaiarens, you can spend time on one of two beaches – the raw and wild Platja des Tancat or walk through the nearby wetlands to the smaller Platja des Bot.
These two beaches near Cala Morell are easily among the most beautiful beaches on the island, so stay a while, enjoy the divine scenery, discover indigenous flora and fauna and take a refreshing dip before returning to base.
Hike the Camà de Cavalls to Punta Nati
The western trail to Punta Nati and its historic lighthouse is a little different. This stage of the cami is called ‘dry Menorca’, as landscapes are defined by sparse vegetation, courtesy of the northerly Tramuntana winds.
Along the route, you can see huts, dry stone walls and ancient cisterns, and look out for botanicals including Phoenician juniper, rosemary and wild capers. Birdwatching is also prevalent with Peregrine falcons regularly frequenting the area.
The trail blends a combination of coastal and inland paths. Make a stop at Général Chanzy Cross – installed to commemorate a 1910 shipwreck off the coastline. The event subsequently led to the Punta Nati lighthouse being built to prevent further incidents.
It’s worth noting that there are no facilities at the lighthouse, therefore it’s wise to bring your own snacks and refreshments to enjoy picnic-style, before embarking on a homeward journey.
Visit the Prehistoric Settlement
A short walk from the resort’s mirador viewpoint is Poblat de Naviformes de Cala Morell. The ancient pre-Talayotic settlement, built on a headland, overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is one of 32 archaeological sites scattered throughout Menorca.
As you explore, you’ll notice around a dozen ancient dwellings and learn about excavated items recently discovered including benches, a grinding stone base for food preparation and various pottery relics.
A visit won’t take long. But while standing here, overlooking the vast expanse of sea in front, you can imagine life during those times in Menorca, and sense the energies of the people who lived here between 1600 and 1200 BC.
Walk the Clifftop Coastal Trail to Reach the Best Viewpoints
Cala Morell is known for its epic scenic viewpoints – those with spectacular vistas across land and sea. And it doesn’t take long to walk along the cliffside trails to discover them.
A few to check out include Roca de l’Elefant or Elephant Rock, set at the end of a craggy promontory. You’ll notice the trunk and head of the elephant bowing downwards towards the sea – a marvel of geology moulded by the elements.
Stroll to Mirador de Cala Morell for expansive coastal views and great photo opportunities, especially at sunset. Alternatively, walk a little further towards Mirador des Penya-segat for striking views of the high cliffs east of Cala Morell.
Best Places to Eat in Cala Morell
There are a few exceptional restaurants in Cala Morell where you can sample delicious Menorcan cuisine. Do note that these restaurants are solely open during the summer season.
Enricana
Listed as the top restaurant in Cala Morell, Enricana (named after the urbanisation founders) is a lunch and dinner venue specialising in Japanese, sushi, and healthy Asian cuisine created with fresh local produce.
With a delightful outdoor terrace, chic, neutral décor, and food presentations akin to works of art, Enricana is an ideal choice for a special occasion.
Ivette
Ivette is probably the most popular eatery in Cala Morell. Sit on the terrace and overlook rouge coastal landscapes and the Mediterranean Sea while dining on platters of fresh, local seafood for lunch or dinner.
It’s also the perfect place for sunset cocktails and sharing tapas with friends or a loved one. The restaurant is popular with locals and does get busy during peak season, therefore, it’s advisable to book a table in advance.
Chiringuito Baristiu
Chiringuito Baristiu overlooks the small section of beach in Cala Morell – a simple and charming beach bar/restaurant popular with locals. It’s a perfect spot for a morning coffee, lunch or sunset drinks and simple, hearty Menorcan fare.
The menu is quite heavy on seafood and meat dishes, however, there are salads, a few veggie offerings and delicious desserts to enjoy too.
Other things to do Around Cala Morell
From Cala Morell, it’s easy to reach other areas of interest in Menorca. Whether you fancy a day of retail therapy, want to explore archaeological sites, or find family-friendly beaches, everything is accessible by car, taxi or bus.
Ciutadella
Ciutadella invites visitors to delve into its rich history and culinary culture. On a day trip, discover the city’s old town and cathedral, enjoy lunch beneath Ses Voltes arcades or barter for produce in the atmospheric fish market.
You can shop for Menorcan crafts and sandals (avarcas) at an open-air market, visit the cloisters of a picture-postcard convent, or find a trendy cocktail bar to settle in for drinks and tapas.
Read More: Best Things to do in Ciutadella
Naveta d’Es Tudons
Naveta d’Es Tudons is one of the most iconic Menorcan archaeological sites – a megalithic stone burial tomb dating back to the island’s Talayotic period. The monument, surrounded by pastures, is incredibly well preserved – and built to resemble an upside-down boat.
When the naveta was excavated, it was found to contain a variety of skeletons, bronze jewellery and even ceramic buttons which can now be seen on display at Mahon’s Museum of Menorca. The monument is steeped in myths and lore, and it was said that for many years, the people of Menorca refused to go near it…
Cala Pilar
One of my favourites, the beach of Cala Pilar is defined by deep red landscapes and ochre sands framed by vegetation. The breathtaking contrast of colours makes it a draw for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The beach is unspoilt and peaceful, away from tourism, with the bay often calm and safe for swimming.
The Cala Pilar parking lot can be reached in around 20 minutes by car from Cala Morell, before you’ll have to don your walking shoes for the remainder of the way.
Read More: How to visit Cala Pilar
Pont d’en Gil
Pont d’en Gil is a natural archway and rocky bridge northwest of Ciutadella on the Cami de Cavalls route. It’s a popular spot for hiking, biking and observing the island’s beautiful sunsets. Bring a picnic, get comfortable on the rocks, admire breathtaking views, and watch llauts (traditional fishing boats) sail through the arch. Alternatively, book a dive expedition to the cave beneath – it’s the only way to see the hidden natural wonder.
Cala Galdana
Cala Galdana is a fun day trip if you fancy a change of scene. The sandy beach is set inside a half-moon bay with plenty of watersports and activities on offer. You can hire a boat and captain it yourself, walk stunning hiking trails to gorgeous beaches (such as Cala Macarelleta or Cala Mitjana), or navigate the coastline in a kayak for a few hours, before browsing a night market or enjoying global cuisine in one of the resort’s many eateries. Despite being on the opposite side of the island, the drive there only takes around 20-25 mins.
Read More: Visiting Cala Galdana in Menorca
Cala Morell Key Things to Know
Very much a seasonal, and small settlement, you won’t find much in the way of facilities in Cala Morell. There isn’t a supermarket, pharmacy, or ATM available. However, its close proximity to Ciutadella means you’re only a short drive away from these conveniences.
One last note, is that it’s not the easiest place to visit if you have limited mobility. The village is woven with staircases, and visiting the historical attractions means navigating over rocky and uneven surfaces.
Where to Stay in Cala Morell
Beautiful villas and holiday apartments are the accommodation of choice in Cala Morell. Here are a few of the best.
This 2-bedroom apartment offers plenty of space for up to 6 guests. You’ll love the unique design and outstanding sea views.
Villa Moll allows you to have the villa lifestyle but at an affordable price point. You’ll benefit from a lovely private garden, three bedrooms, and free parking.
Villa Amor takes your villa stay up a notch by offering a private pool, sea views, and modern facilities. It sleeps up to 6 guests in three bedrooms.
Cala Morell isn’t a traditional Menorcan holiday resort, and it doesn’t have the family-friendly allure of the more developed Cala en Bosch or Cala Galdana. However, it’s ideal for those who want to discover spectacular walks and an intriguing history, accompanied by a few fine restaurants to reward your efforts. If you like your holidays nature-driven, laid-back and authentic – embodying the true essence of Menorca, Cala Morell is a superb choice.
