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Sa Calobra (or La Calobra, in Spanish) is a small cove located in the municipality of Escorca, in the northwest of Mallorca, and is at the same time a small tourist village. It forms a small beach of coarse sand and pebbles about 60m long and 10m wide, which stands out for its great wild beauty and crystal clear waters.
The cove of Sa Calobra is located in a very isolated place and is very exposed to the north winds, so if they are blowing from that direction, it is advisable to walk a few metres and swim in the neighbouring Torrent de Pareis.
Do not confuse Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis. Sa Calobra is a small tourist village located in Escorca and here you will find the Port de Sa Calobra, the cove of Sa Calobra and the beach of Torrent de Pareis. The last is formed at the outlet of the Torrent de Pareis, the island’s best-known torrent, while the cove of Sa Calobra (which we describe here) is right next to it.
The ensemble formed by the port and both beaches has given rise to one of the most spectacular settings on the island, and has been declared a Natural Monument by the Government of the Balearic Islands. We can state, without a doubt, that if there is one essential visit to see in Mallorca during your holidays on the island, it is this one.
How to get to the cove of Sa Calobra
There are several different ways to get to the cove of Sa Calobra, each one of them being an authentic marvel. Sa Calobra is the perfect example of the fact that the destination is not the only purpose and that you can enjoy the route just as much, if not more. The road that leads to the site is one of the two most beautiful in Mallorca, so we can assure you that a visit to this impressive natural monument will not leave you indifferent.
Road to Sa Calobra
If you decide to get to Sa Calobra by car, motorbike or bicycle, you will have to do it via the road to Sa Calobra or MA-2141, which is in the heart of the Sierra de Tramuntana and which, together with the road that leads to the Formentor lighthouse, is one of the most spectacular routes in the country and, definitely, in Mallorca.
Calobra means snake in the Mallorcan language and the road is so called because of the serpentine nature of its 14 km long, as it is full of curves that trace endless “zig-zags”.
As you drive through it, you will enjoy its enormous scenic beauty, with valleys, holm oak forests and high peaks. Don’t hesitate and stop at its beautiful viewpoints, especially the famous mirador del Nus de sa corbata (tie knot), located in an area of the road where there is a change of direction with a 360º turn.
⚠️ ⚠️ ATTENTION: Currently, the Sa Calobra road is about to begin reconstruction work, which is scheduled to begin on Monday 27th February, snow permitting, as there are snow warnings at altitudes of 300 metres..
All this stems from the fact that on 7 February 2023 there was a landslide in one of the retaining walls of the road, the passage is closed for tourism but not for residents who can pass.
The Consell has detailed that the traffic that will be allowed will be any type of vehicle under 10 tonnes, a measure that is below normal but which helps to maintain the integrity and safety of the road.
⚠️ Although the road to Sa Calobra may not be suitable for people with a fear of heights, you should be aware that even though you should take care… the road is very safe, as the asphalt is in very good condition and is equipped with crash barriers along the entire route.
Getting to Sa Calobra by car or motorbike
If you want to get to Sa Calobra by car or motorbike, you can leave from two villages located on opposite sides of the island and one or the other will suit you depending on where you are staying in Mallorca:
- Lluc, located in the centre of the Sierra de Tramuntana and accessible from both Caimari and Pollença. The road is the Ma-10 and the route is about 24 km long, approximately 45 minutes.
- Sóller, well connected with Palma and Santa Maria. You will also have to take the Ma-10 road, which is the road of the Sierra de Tramuntana with a duration of 1h 5′, about 48 kms.
We recommend that you make this journey by car. The journey is very long and can take even longer if it is done, for example, by bus.
If you do not have your own vehicle and you want to rent a car in Mallorca during your holidays, we recommend that you use the comparator that we offer you, as by entering your dates you will be able to see a complete list with the types of vehicles, conditions and prices of the different companies that operate on the island..
The road can be dangerous on a motorbike and we would only recommend it if you are a lover of two-wheeled motor vehicles and have the necessary skills and abilities. If so, then you’ll have a great time with all the curves and bends on this road.
⚠️ Throughout most of the year, it is very common to meet buses and cyclists with very slow paces, resulting in crowds. If you encounter them, stay calm and, above all, be respectful of those who are not protected by a car 🚴.
Parking in Sa Calobra
Once you reach the end of the road you will arrive at the cove of Sa Calobra and you can park your vehicle in a paid car park at a cost of five cents per minute (€3/h), not to exceed €15 per day. This is the only parking option, so you will not be able to leave your car anywhere else in the area.
Getting to Sa Calobra by public transport
Nowadays it is not possible to get to Sa Calobra by public transport, although it is possible to get there by coach through private companies that organise excursions.
Reaching Sa Calobra by boat
Arriving by boat to the area of Sa Calobra is another very good option, especially if you don’t like winding roads, suffer from a fear of heights or simply prefer to enjoy the scenic spectacle from the sea.
If you are interested, there are three daily departures from Port de Sóller, so you could go there by public transport or with your vehicle and avoid the road.
There are also other more complete excursions and group activities with final destination in Sa Calobra that even have a pick-up and drop-off service:
Renting a boat in Puerto de Soller and sailing to Sa Calobra
If you liked the idea of arriving at Sa Calobra by boat, but you are one of those who prefer to go at your own pace, you could also arrive with your own boat or with a rented boat. Be aware, however, that the seaward side is subject to strong winds and a strong battering, so if you are not an experienced captain we do not recommend that you hire a boat without a license.
If you are used to sail or if you want to rent a boat departing from the Port of Sóller you can do it from here. We recommend that you use the search filters and select the option to navigate with a pattern. All you have to worry about is relaxing and admiring the beautiful surroundings!
Cycling and cycle touring on the road to Sa Calobra
As we said before, the road to Sa Calobra is very busy with cyclists and this is because currently Mallorca is one of the top destinations for cycle touring and the circular route along the road to Sa Calobra is one of the favourites..
But watch out! This route, although spectacular, is a feat within the reach of very few, both in terms of its difficulty and the distance covered. The circular cycling and cycle touring route starts and finishes in Puerto de Pollença and covers a distance of 104.45 km. Its estimated time of execution is 5h 30′ and with an accumulated level of ascent and descent of 2,271 m up to a maximum height of 713 m.
Are you traveling to Mallorca with the desire to do this difficult cycling route and want more information?
🎁 Download for free the map of the cycling route from Puerto de Pollença to Sa Calobra that we have prepared as a gift for the readers of Yo soy Mallorca.
To receive it you only have to fill in the following form. The map will be sent to you by email (remember to check your spam folder and add us to your address book!) and once you have downloaded it you will be able to enlarge it at maximum quality from any device, so you can consult the route at any time along the way.
Information on the map of the cycling route from Puerto de Pollença to Sa Calobra
On the map of the cycling route from Puerto de Pollença to Sa Calobra we detail everything you need to know and explain what you will find as you cycle:
- The exact route and the villages of Mallorca that you will cross.
- Detailed location of the peripheral mountain system.
- The total distance of the route.
- Maximum and minimum accumulated altitude.
- Maximum height you will reach during the route.
- Estimated time to complete the route.
To get the most out of it and to make sure you don’t miss anything, there’s nothing better than knowing the route beforehand… so don’t think twice and download it for free!
Along the route you will enjoy, in addition to the landscape, wonderful locations such as Port de Pollença, Pollença and Lluc, where you should not miss a visit to the Monastery or Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Lluc, dedicated to Virgin Mary.
When you arrive at the cove of Sa Calobra you will be able to park your bike, sit down for a while to rest and get some fresh air in one of its bars and restaurants or go straight to the also wonderful beach of Torrent de Pareis.
Facilities in the cove of Sa Calobra
The beach of Sa Calobra has hardly any services. You will not be able to rent sun loungers and parasols, nor rent equipment for water sports. It has only several bars and restaurants and a few souvenir shops, as well as toilets and showers for a fee.
If your idea is to spend the day in the cove, we recommend that you take everything you need with you, as the restaurants you will find are not exactly cheap and their menus are quite basic.
There is also no lifeguard service, but during the summer months the town has a nursing team available to provide first aid and assistance until a possible transfer to hospital if the case is more serious.
Activities in Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis
Although it may seem unbelievable due to its difficult access, the area of Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis is one of the busiest on the island during the summer months, especially in the middle of the day.
If the plan you fancy is to relax in one of the coves and take a dip in the crystal clear waters, we recommend that you do so early or late in the day, when you can also enjoy one of the best sunsets on the island.
If you are traveling out of season (with good weather conditions, don’t think of doing this walk in the rain!) or if you are simply aware that you will meet a lot of people and yet you know that you can’t miss this impressive enclave, in the cove of Sa Calobra and in the surrounding area you will be able to enjoy a wide range of activities which we detail below.
Descent of the Torrent de Pareis
The excursion along the Torrent de Pareis can be an option to reach the beach area or to simply enjoy nature. This hiking route descends the torrent from its source to its outlet, in the area of Sa Calobra.
If you do not have the possibility of being accompanied by a person with experience in similar activities, we recommend that you do it through an arranged route with professionals where they will provide you with all the necessary equipment and you will be guided by an experienced person.
The descent of the Torrent de Pareis is not for everyone. This is a very tough and difficult hike that requires good physical condition, technical knowledge and knowledge of the area. Being accompanied by a professional or a person with a lot of experience in this type of activity will give you the peace of mind and security you need so that all you have to worry about is having fun and enjoying yourself.
We therefore urge you to exercise the utmost care and caution and not to embark on the descent on your own. Also, in case there was any doubt, this hiking route is not suitable for children.
The descent is recommended between May and October, as during the other months the torrent is usually full of water, making the route even more difficult. A total of 7 kilometres are covered between pools, caves and stone walls that are almost 300 metres high until you reach the beach, which is simply the delight and the culmination of so much effort that will surely have been well worth it.
Other activities in Sa Calobra and its surroundings
The cliffs, vertical walls and breathtaking views make Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis one of the favourite locations for local climbers and climbers from all over the world who visit the island on holiday.
You can also abseil from S’Esmolar. Like the torrent descent, this activity requires a professional guide or a very experienced person to accompany you.
If you prefer to practice water sports or activities, you will not be able to rent pedal boats or other equipment in this cove. You will be able to rent a kayak and do a route around the surroundings at the beach of Cala Tuent, a nearby and equally impressive beach from which you can paddle to both the cove of Sa Calobra and the beach of Torrent de Pareis.
If you find yourself on the island at the beginning of July, make a note of this! On the first Sunday of the month, a free concert is held at the outlet of the Torrent de Pareis, bringing together the best voices of the island. This is a classic summer event organised by Obra Social La Caixa.
Accommodation in Sa Calobra
If you were attracted by the idea of staying next to Sa Calobra and the Torrent de Pareis you should know that you can only do so if you find a place in the refuge located in the small harbour, cause there is no tourist accommodation available nearby as it is an area declared a Natural Monument.
Even so, Sa Calobra is relatively close to the beach of Cala Tuent, where you can stay, and it is practically the same distance from Sóller, Pollença and their respective ports, both of which are two of our favourite places to stay in Mallorca.
Would you like to stay at the refuge of Port de Sa Calobra or in one of these beautiful towns in the Sierra de Tramuntana? Here is some information and our selection of favourites, in case you find it helpful:
Refuge of Port de Sa Calobra
The small refuge of Port de Sa Calobra is managed by the Council of Escorca and can accommodate up to ten people. The minimum stay is two nights and a maximum of six nights and bookings can only be made up to 60 days in advance. The fee for the use of the refuge and its facilities is 120 €/night (regardless of the number of people staying) plus the tourist tax per person.
Hotels in Cala Tuent
You won’t find a wide range of accommodation in Cala Tuent, as it is a protected natural area, but you will be able to stay in a guesthouse. We recommend that you take a look at the following:
Hotels in Sóller
Searching for and finding hotels in Sóller will not be complicated, as there is a supply that matches the demand. However, as in the rest of the municipalities of the Serra de Tramuntana, the prices of accommodation can be a little higher than usual. If you are still looking for accommodation in Sóller or Puerto de Sóller, these are our recommendations:
Hotels in Pollensa
Pollensa has a wide range of places to stay as it is a very tourist-oriented town. Prices can be somewhat increased due to the high demand throughout the year, so we provide you with a list of accommodation in Pollença for different budgets. In this case, we recommend that you book as soon as possible:
Do you want to consider other options? On this map you can see all available hotels in Mallorca. If you already know when you want to travel to the island, enter your dates and choose from all-inclusive hotels, luxury hotels, aparthotels, private villas and other available accommodation.
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