CALA GALDANA
Area: Minorca
Country: Spain


Location:
On S coast, 25 miles W of Mahon and the airport.

Telephone code from UK:
34 07750

Position:
Split by river running into stunning bay, with most of resort concentrated on flat flood plain backed by pine-clad hills and steep-sided valleys. Steep incline to beach on S side of river.

Description:
A purpose-built resort surrounded by dramatic scenery of limestone cliffs, pine-clad hills and crystal-clear waters. The main drag runs for » mile along the valley, roughly following the river, and it is here that much of the accommodation as well as the main commercial centre is located. Accommodation continues up the hillside for around 600 yards (although the winding road makes it seem farther) and there is a secondary residential area with no commercial centre over Galdana Bridge on the S side of the river. Although this area overlooks the beach, the steep incline has forced a lot of development away from the beach itself. The whole area is becoming increasingly protected to preserve its natural beauty with only a couple of monstrosities marring the landscape.

Suitability:
For those who appreciate a good beach and are prepared to fight for their space, as the resort's undeniable beauty is making it increasingly popular. Fans of hiking, mountain biking and water sports. Not a place easily negotiated by those with mobility difficulties.

Accommodation:
Choice of middle- to upper-category hotels, apartments and villas.

Shopping:
Small commercial centre offers tourist tack, a few jewellers, beach and sports clothing.

Beach:
Broad, deep, gently shelving beach of fine light sand and clear waters backed by shady pine trees. Access to beach via wooden bridge or steps. Second even more picturesque beach 30-minute walk away at Cala Mitjana.

Entertainments:
Daytime: beach and water sports; country walks among pines; several natural parks in dry river gorges. Nightlife: centred on hotels with a few additional bars.

Eating:
Under 20 eateries, many connected to accommodation establishments, providing fast food, some finer choices and one tapas restaurant. Nothing particularly cheap.

Public-transport:
Five daily buses to Ferreries with connections to Ciudadela and two buses to Mahon.

Local-excursions:
See Ciudadela.