It is, of course, no secret that Ibiza has an abundance of wonderful coves. Nor that Cala D’Hort, set amid the Cala D’Hort, Cap Llentrisca and Sa Talaia Natural Park, is one of the finest. This particular cove lies within the municipality of Sant Josep de Sa Talaia, in one of the south-western areas particularly blessed with coves and beaches.
This stretch of coastline forms part of the Es Vedrà, Es Vedranell and Ponent Islets Nature Reserve, and its rich biodiversity includes protected flora and and colonies of birds (with the Eleonora’s falcon occupying pride of place). A horseshoe-shaped bay is formed by the Cala D’Hort cove, Cap Llentrisca and the Sa Talaia peak (Ibiza’s highest, reaching an altitude of 475 metres).
Amid this spectacular setting lies Cala D’Hort, a superb beach of white sand and limpid waters, with the silhouettes of the two islets of Es Vedrà and Es Vedranell forming a backdrop.
- Cala d’Hort, a beach of Ibiza with lots of charm
- What to see in the surroundings of Cala d’Hort
- Cala D’Hort restaurants
- Where to stay near Cala d’Hort
Cala d’Hort, an Ibizan beach with infinite charm
This cove is quite small, and becomes very crowded during the summer, so it is advisable either to avoid it at weekends or to arrive early enough to secure a quiet corner — something that is definitely worth the effort.
The beach has two distinct parts: one end has fine, white sand, while the other is quite rocky. One of this cove’s great attractions is its charming natural scenery. Although it is sheltered by cliffs, the waves pound the shore on windy days, so this is a favourite beach of surfers.
Cala D’Hort’s main claim to fame are the two islets of Es Vedrà and Es Verdranell, situated directly facing the beach. This remarkable view is what attracts so many people. Access to the islets is forbidden at all times, unless you have a special authorisation. They can only be accessed from the sea.
Legend and an an aura of mystique surround Es Vedrà; it is reputed to have magical properties and to be a source of energy. The islet also has extraordinary ecological value, as both a sanctuary for birds and for the diversity of its flora. As access is restricted, it is a good idea to hire a boat and sail around it to get a closer view.
Cala D’Hort’s beach is perfect for couples, or those who would like to see one of the most spectacular sunsets in Ibiza. The best place to view the sunset is from the viewing point situated just before the descent to the cove; from here you will have a great panorama of Es Vedrà.
Characteristics of Cala d’Hort
The beach is around 200 metres long, but that does not prevent it offering some services such as sun bed and sunshade hire. Another outstanding feature of this cove is its wealth of marine life, so don your goggles and flippers to do some snorkelling around the foot of the cliffs, or go diving. You won’t regret it: after all, you’re in a natural park.
You could round off your day by visiting other places of interest very close to Cala D’Hort. For example, the Torre des Savinar, also known as the Pirate Tower, one of the loveliest spots on the island. Perched on a clifftop, it commands remarkable views. Atlantis, the name given by the hippies to this ancient quarry, displays some intriguing rock formations. Other perfect coves, such as Cala Vadella, can be found close by.
What to see in the surroundings of Cala d’Hort
You can complete your day by visiting other interesting places that are very close to Cala d’Hort. For example, the tower des Savinar, also known as the Pirate’s tower, one of the most beautiful places on the island. Located on a cliff, it offers impressive views. Atlantis, the name given by the hippies to this old quarry, has some curious rock formations. Other ideal coves, such as Cala Vadella, are also nearby.
Cala D’Hort restaurants
Another great attraction of Cala d’Hort is its superb restaurants. This means that you can enjoy the island’s excellent cuisine while still admiring the view of the beach. Three establishments can be highly recommended:
- El Carme.The finest fresh fish awaits you at this popular restaurant in Cala D’Hort, with the islet of Es Vedrà serving as a backdrop.The restaurant’s menu is full of traditional dishes and its rice dishes are especially good.Fried squid, seafood paella, the renowned bullit de peix [traditional Ibizan fish stew], and lobster stew are its best-known dishes — the very thought of them makes your mouth water!
- Cala d’Hort.The finest fresh fish awaits you at this popular restaurant in Cala D’Hort, with the islet of Es Vedrà serving as a backdrop.The restaurant’s menu is full of traditional dishes and its rice dishes are especially good.Fried squid, seafood paella, the renowned bullit de peix [traditional Ibizan fish stew], and lobster stew are its best-known dishes — the very thought of them makes your mouth water!
- Es Boldadó. Looking for a terrace with fabulous views for lunch or dinner? Then make straight for Es Boldadó, located on a 10-metre-high cliff top in Cala D’Hort. A truly unique setting as evening falls. Es Boldadó’s dishes are full of ingredients fresh from the sea, and customers are strongly advised to book in advance, as the restaurant is open all year round, and is always full. There is a rustic ambience which pervades the entire establishment, and the fishing-themed décor makes this the perfect place to enjoy steamed mussels, sea cucumbers with garlic or a superb paella with red prawns. Confirmed carnivores should not miss the Ibiza suckling pig.
As you can see, you won’t need to leave Cala D’Hort for a full day of sun and great cuisine in equal parts. You might also visit a little boutique selling Ibizan women’s clothing, and buy that lovely dress or sarong you’ve been looking for. What more reason could you need to spend a relaxing day on the beach?
Where to stay near Cala d’Hort
On the outskirts of Cala D’Hort, barely 16 kilometres from the coast, you’ll find a hotel that will meet all your needs, no matter how exacting they may be. If you’re looking for comfort and convenience in your holiday accommodation on the outskirts of Cala D’Hort, this is the place for you. We are referring to the newly refurbished Occidental Ibiza hotel, barely 15 kilometres from this lovely beach. The hotel’s exact location is Port D’Es Torrent,, a 20-minute car drive away.
This delightful, comfortable, Mediterranean-style hotel’s 346 B-Rooms are spacious and ultra-modern, guaranteeing that your stay will be an unforgettable one, whether you’re travelling to Ibiza as a couple, with friends, or with family. There are different types of rooms to suit every need: double rooms, double rooms with a terrace, family rooms, and superior family rooms. In addition, the hotel’s restaurant offers a varied cuisine, including local and international dishes, and there are frequent themed dinners.
The Occidental Ibiza is not just any old hotel, as it has three superb adult swimming pools and a children’s pool. There is a charming bar where you can get a soft drink or a snack while enjoying the fabulous views and a relaxing dip. If you’re travelling with children, this accommodation will be particularly suitable, as it has both a children’s play area and a Barcy Club for the youngest members of the family — as well as entertainment programmes designed for all age groups.
And if you’re a sports enthusiast, the Occidental Ibiza has plenty to offer you too, as it has a multi-use pitch, a beach-volley court, and a massage service to add an extra measure of relaxation and wellness for all its guests.
The Occidental Ibiza Hotel, part of the Barceló Hotel Group, is your best option for accommodation if you are a discerning traveller and you want to enjoy Cala d’Hort. Moreover, if you would also like to explore the hotel’s amazing natural setting and discover interesting places, there are other idyllic beaches nearby, such as Cala Tarifa and Cala Conta, which, like Cala Bassa, have been awarded Blue Flags. Twenty kilometres away is Playa d’en Bossa, Ibiza’s longest beach and home to the famed disco, Space. And, if you want to give yourself a real treat, in late afternoon head to San Antonio and you’ll be astounded at the incredible sunset seen from either the Café del Mar or the Kumharas chill-out bar.
Somewhat further away from Cala D’Hort is another select establishment whose service and location do not disappoint. This is the Barceló Portinatx Hotel, although this accommodation is adults-only.Only 20 minutes’ walk from Portinatx beach, this is the perfect haven for those who want somewhere exclusive to rest and unwind on holiday. Half of the rooms are Junior Suites, and have sea views. Some even have a hydromassage bath on the terrace. Sports lovers can enjoy all kinds of water sports, as well as hiking and cycling, and the hotel offers mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine.You can expect an unforgettable stay if you opt for the Barceló Portinatx – Adults Only, because the hotel also has a large solarium, two swimming pools, an outdoor wellness facility, and a terrace with fantastic sea views.
