Cala En Feliu

Cala en Feliu beach Mallorca: What you should know before you go

Cala en Feliu is a very wild, secluded rocky cove on the Formentor peninsula near Port de Pollença in north Mallorca, reachable only by a demanding hike or by boat. It is a narrow U shaped inlet between high cliffs that ends in a small shore of stones and pebbles with very clear, deep water, making it spectacular but definitely not a standard family beach.

• Beach type: Remote rocky cove
• Ground: Stones and pebbles
• Water entry: Steep, over rocks
• Water feel: Very clear, quickly deep
• Shade: From high cliffs, limited times
• Facilities: None
• Parking: At Formentor/Cala Murta start, then hike
• Best for: Experienced hikers, strong swimmers, boaters

The overall vibe

Cala en Feliu is described as one of the most isolated, virgin inlets on the Formentor coast, with a strong sense of solitude and untouched nature. The cove lies between steep rock faces and rugged slopes, with no buildings, roads or infrastructure visible from the beach. Because access is difficult, it is usually empty or visited by very few hikers and occasional boats, so you often have the place to yourself. The dominant impressions are the height of the cliffs, the narrowness of the inlet and the intense colour of the sea.

Stones or sand and entry into the water

The beach is a short strip of stones and pebbles created by a torrent and sea currents, not a sandy bay. You sit and walk on loose shingle and larger rocks, so a thick mat or robust towel helps with comfort. The seabed is rocky, with seaweed covered stones and a strong slope; depth reaches about 7 metres at 100 metres from shore and around 12 metres at 175 metres. Water shoes are highly recommended because the rocks can be slippery and sharp, and waves can make footing unstable. Once you are in, the water is exceptionally clear and good for snorkeling on calm days, but this is deep, “serious” water, not a paddling zone.

Who Cala en Feliu is perfect for

Cala en Feliu is ideal for fit hikers and strong, confident swimmers who actively seek remote, wild coves. People who enjoy long coastal walks, dramatic scenery and quiet swims in deep water will get the most out of it. It is not suitable for children, people with limited mobility or anyone who wants easy access, shallow sand and lifeguards. If your personal “best beaches Mallorca” focus is on raw nature and solitude rather than comfort, this cove is a very good candidate.

Facilities and comfort

There are no facilities at Cala en Feliu: no lifeguards, sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, showers, bins or bars. All services (food, water, toilets) are back at Formentor, Port de Pollença or elsewhere, so you must bring everything you need and pack all rubbish out. Shade depends on cliff position and time of day; parts of the beach can be shaded when the sun is low, but at other times it is fully exposed. Comfort is basic and completely dependent on your own preparation.

Getting there and parking

Cala en Feliu is about 18 km from Port de Pollença on the Formentor peninsula. There are two recognised walking approaches: one starting near Hotel Formentor and one from Cala Murta, both following rough coastal trails over steep, rocky terrain. Hiking descriptions mention about 8–9 km total distance, roughly 400–500 metres of elevation gain and 2.5–3 hours pure walking time, with some sections exposed to wind and swell below. There is no dedicated parking at the cove; you park at Formentor or Cala Murta access areas (subject to current Formentor traffic restrictions) and walk from there. Many visitors therefore consider arrival by private boat the easier option, since the marine conditions are considered good for anchoring when the weather is calm.

The best spots in Cala en Feliu

Given the small size, most people aim for the central part of the stone beach, where the ground is most even and access to the water is straightforward. Some hikers choose slightly higher, flatter rocks at the back for a more comfortable seat and a place to keep backpacks dry. Snorkelers usually move along the rocky sides and toward the mouth of the inlet, where the underwater cliff and boulder structure is most interesting, always watching depth and swell. For photos, viewpoints on the approach path above the cove give the best overall view of the narrow U shaped inlet and the height of the surrounding cliffs.

Best time to visit and key tips

Morning or early day in stable weather is the safest and most pleasant time, with cooler temperatures on the trail and typically calmer sea conditions. You should avoid days with strong north or northeast winds, since the cove is open to winds from the first and second quadrants and swell can make both anchoring and swimming risky.

Important tips:

• Wear proper hiking shoes; the approach is long, rough and sometimes exposed.
• Bring plenty of water, food, sun protection and a small first aid kit; there are no resources on site.
• Use water shoes and never dive in without checking depth and rocks; the seabed drops fast and is rocky and weedy.
• Check current access and traffic rules for Formentor before planning the hike or drive, as regulations can change seasonally.