Cala Macarella

Macarella and its smaller neighbour Macarelleta sit in a limestone inlet on Menorca's southern coast, with white sand, water that goes a strong turquoise over the pale bottom, and Aleppo pine growing to the edge of the cliffs on both sides. There is no development beyond a single seasonal beach bar. Access by car was closed in high season after parking overwhelmed the approach, and a shuttle bus now runs from Ciutadella; alternatively the Cami de Cavalls, the coastal path that circles the island, links it to Cala Galdana in about forty minutes. Macarelleta, over a rock spur, is smaller and traditionally used by naturists. Both fill completely in July and August despite the access controls.

What you actually see

• The twin coves - Macarella and the smaller Macarelleta over a spur.
• The turquoise water - colour from white sand and limestone below.
• The pine cliffs - Aleppo pine growing to the edge of the rock.
• The Cami de Cavalls - the island coastal path linking to Cala Galdana.

When to go

May, June and September for the water without the peak crowds; July and August fill the coves and the shuttle. Winter is quiet with the path walkable and the bar closed.

Honest expectations

Cars are barred in high season and the shuttle must be used, running to a timetable. There are no facilities beyond a seasonal bar and no shade on the sand. The coves are small and crowded in summer despite the controls.

Nearby

Cala Galdana lies east along the path; Ciutadella is fourteen kilometres north.