Discover Cala Ratjada

The origins of Cala Ratjada

Cala Ratjada was founded in 1645 by Spanish settlers and fishermen. These recognised the advantages of the deep waters off the coast and used them for fishing. The bay owes its name "Cala Ratjada" to a nearby rock called "Rataja", which means "rat hole". Over time, this settlement developed into an important fishing port and became known for its delicious fresh fish.

The development of Cala Ratjada

In 1847, King Ferdinand IV granted Cala Ratjada a charter, officially recognising the settlement as a town. This recognition gave the town access to resources and funding that allowed it to continue to grow and develop. In 1895, the first lighthouse was built, which still stands today, as well as an impressive harbour wall designed by the famous Spanish architect José María Pons y Pons. This infrastructure allowed more ships to enter the port safely, thus expanding trade with other countries in Europe. As a result, Cala Ratjada experienced a large increase in population in the early 1900s.

Cala Ratjada today

Since then, Cala Ratjada has developed considerably, but has not lost its original charm. Today, the town is known for its pristine beaches and stunning sunsets, attracting visitors from all over Europe to enjoy the Mediterranean climate and relaxed lifestyle. The town has several restaurants serving traditional dishes such as paella or tapas, as well as numerous shops selling local handicrafts. With all these attractions and sights, it is no wonder that many people visit this beautiful destination every year!                 

From its humble beginnings as a small fishing port centuries ago to one of Mallorca's most popular destinations today, this charming little village has become a real highlight of the island of Mallorca!

Clubs and Bars Cala Ratjada

Cala Ratjada is so much more than just a place for beach holidays; the town has some unique nightlife options to offer! When the sun goes down, Cala Ratjada comes alive with its vibrant ambience after dark. There are plenty of bars, pubs and clubs here where you can dance the night away or enjoy a few drinks with friends. If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, head to La Tabernita for a night of live music or El Rio for craft beers and classic pub grub. If you're looking for something more upbeat, head to Discoteca Arena, where everything from Latin sounds to rock classics are played until dawn. The clubs and bars like Sa Cova in Cala Ratjada leave nothing to be desired!

The best shopping in Cala Ratjada

There are many shopping options in Cala Ratjada that can meet your everyday needs and much more. If you are looking for fresh fruit and vegetables, we recommend the Municipal Market, which is open every Saturday between 8am and 1pm. Here you will find an abundance of seasonal produce grown by local farmers. We recommend that you come as early as possible, because from 11am onwards the Cala Ratjada market is busy and the heat can be quite a handful. If you need something new for your wardrobe, Carrer de l'Agulla is your street. Here you'll find plenty of fashion shops where you can discover the latest trends, sourced from designers locally and from around the world.

And if you're looking for a unique piece of jewellery or a souvenir, be sure to visit Carrer de sa Lluna. Here you'll find a variety of craft shops, including jewellery shops, ceramics workshops and art galleries.

In short, there is a place for every shopping mood in Cala Ratjada. Don't miss the opportunity to shop in the charming shops and exciting markets and discover the uniqueness of traditional Mallorcan craftsmanship!

“Ses Puntes" hiking route

A popular hiking route is the "Ses Puntes" route, which leads to the summit of Penyal de s'Aguila, from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and the coast. Another interesting hiking trail is the "Cami de Son Ferrer", which leads through a pine forest and then up the mountain of Son Ferrer, from where you have a breathtaking view of the cove of Cala Agulla. There are also many other hiking trails such as the Torre des Carregador or the Cami de Coanegra, which offer impressive sights along the way.

For those who want to take it a little easier, there are many walking routes along the coast with great views of the sea. These walks usually don't take you too far inland, but still offer many interesting sights, such as hidden coves and rocks, to explore during your visit. If you are lucky, you may even spot local wildlife such as dolphins or turtles! You can walk along numerous trails through the surrounding countryside, where you can find hidden coves with crystal clear water, as well as olive groves and almond trees that have been growing here since Roman times.

Cala Agulla

This beautiful cove is located just outside the town and offers crystal clear waters, soft white sand and many amenities for visitors. The beach also has a playground for children and numerous restaurants serving traditional Spanish dishes. In the evening, you can take a romantic walk along the promenade and watch the sun set on the horizon. Clearly an unforgettable beach and getaway in Mallorca!

Puig de Sa Morisca

Just outside the town, on top of a hill, is Puig de Sa Morisca - an ancient village that is over 1000 years old! Visitors can take a guided tour of this historic site, where they will see ruins from Roman times as well as evidence of Moorish settlers who once lived here. There are also many shops selling handmade crafts so you can take home something truly unique from your trip!

Capdepera Castle Museum

Also worth a visit is the Museu de Capdepera Castle - an imposing fortress built in 1550 by King Philip II to protect against pirate attacks. Today it houses an incredible collection of artefacts from throughout Mallorca's history, including weapons, armour, jewellery, paintings, pottery and much more! You can also join a guided tour to learn more about the castle's fascinating past.