Cala Morell to Cala Algaiarens: An Excellent Coastal Walk

The coastal walk between Cala Morell and Cala Algaiarens in Menorca is superb. Starting from the fascinating Necropolis de Cala Morell, you’ll venture along the stunning coastline to Cala Algaiarens. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of many beaches including Codolar de Biniatram and Cala Fontanelles. At Cala Algaiarens, there are two golden sand beaches to explore – Platja des Tancat and Platja des Bot. Indeed, by checking out this coastal area, you’ll experience some of the most scenic places in Menorca.

In this travel guide, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about this coastal walk. After a trail description, we’ll explain your options on how to get there. Then, we’ll cast an eye over the settlement of Cala Morell, talking about things to do as well as places to eat and stay in the area.

Cala Morell to Cala Algaiarens Coastal Walk (Camí de Cavalls Stage 8)

The coastal walk from Cala Morell to Cala Algaiarens is a short section of the multi-day 184km Camí de Cavalls circular walk around Menorca. In fact, this section is officially known as Stage 8 of the Camí de Cavalls. Although, officially, it’s recommended to walk Camí de Cavalls in an anti-clockwise direction. So, you’ll find in most online guides, that the route is described as starting at Cala Algaiarens instead of Cala Morell.

Certainly, you’re welcome to complete the coastal walk this way. But, personally, Beck and I decided to start the hike in Cala Morell. To be honest, we did so for no particular reason, other than wanting to explore the settlement at the end of the out and back hike.

So, for the purposes of this guide, we’ll describe the coastal walk starting from Cala Morell. Although, regardless of whether you start there or in Cala Algaiarens, you’ll obviously explore all of the same attractions. Indeed, you’ll get to see historical attractions such as Necropolis de Cala Morell and natural attractions such as Cala Fontanelles and Platja des Bot. With that in mind, let’s look at the hiking specs and a GPS-guided map for this coastal walk.

Read our Es Grau to Favaritx Cape, Pont d’en Gil to Punta Nati and Cala Mitjana to Cala Turqeta guides

Cala Morell to Cala Algaiarens Coastal Walk Details and Map

• Type: Out & Back
• Distance: 14.5km
• Time: 3.75 hours
• Accumulated elevation gain: 270m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Necropolis de Cala Morell
• Map: Wikiloc

Cala Morell to Cala Algaiarens Trail Description

In this trail description, we’ll break down the route into sections to show you the highlights of this coastal walk.

Where to start: there is a small parking area next to Necropolis de Cala Morell with twelve spots. This is the perfect place to start the walk. But, of course, these spots fill quickly – particularly in the peak season. Read our section on parking for information on other places to park if need be.

Necropolis de Cala Morell

Starting at the historic Necropolis de Cala Morell, you’ll explore 14 burial chambers that were active during the pre-Talaiotic period up until the 2nd century. Also known as Cala Morell Necropolis, this historical site is certainly a tremendous first stop on this day hike.

Cala Morell and Mirador Cala Morell: An Exceptional Viewpoint

After checking out the historical site, you’ll follow the road (Carrer Orio) down to the mesmerising waters of Cala Morell. Also known as Cala Morell Beach, it’s easily one of the finest coastal areas in Menorca.

After walking by the shoreline, you’ll continue along a steep set of steps along the eastern edge of the beach. This breathtaking coastal path leads you to Mirador Cala Morell. This viewpoint provides sweeping views of the surrounding Balearic Sea.

FYI – as you ascend the steps approaching Mirador Cala Morell, you’ll notice blue and white tiles along the side of the steps. These markers represent a short information trail that weaves throughout the settlement of Cala Morell. You won’t find much, if any, information online about this short settlement trail. But, by doing this coastal walk, you’ll notice these blue and white tiles scattered along paths and streets in Cala Morell. Inevitably, you’ll notice them at the start of the walk and then again near the end of the out and back walk as you return via the settlement.

Codolar de Biniatram

After enjoying the viewpoint, you’ll continue along a fairly mundane path for about 1.5km, nestled in between farmland and dense coastal bushland. Thankfully, after this uninspiring stretch, you’ll arrive at an absolute pearler of a lookout. From this coastal vantage point, you’ll enjoy stellar views of both Codolar de Biniatram and the bay of Cala Algaiarens. At this point, Cala Fontanellese remains hidden. At this viewpoint, you’ll notice the rocky landscape is vividly red. This landscape is similar to what you’ll see during the Binimel·là/Cala Pregonda to Cala Pilar coastal walk. Indeed, this sensational red rock is typical of the north coast of Menorca.

From the outstanding vantage point, you’ll descend towards Codolar de Biniatram – a small cove surrounded by red rocks. It’s a nice cove; but, there’s more extraordinary coastal areas further along the trail as you head towards Cala Fontanelles and beyond.

Cala Fontanelles

After passing Codolar de Biniatram, the trail then hugs the coast, as you wind around the stunning bay of Cala Fontanelles. You’ll notice a private ramp for boats, which isn’t terribly scenic. But, the calm waters of Cala Fontanelles conjure a sense of tranquillity. You’ll walk along the sands of Cala Fontanelles, before joining a trail that heads inland.

Cala Algaiarens: Exploring Menorca’s Virgin Beaches

The inland-bound trail that departs Cala Fontanelles passes by pine forest. Soon enough, after exiting Cala Fontanelles, you’ll arrive at the Cala Algaiarens Car Park. From here, a dirt path leads you to the wonderfully pristine and isolated Cala Algaiarens.

This area is also known as Playa Algaiarens, Playa de Algaiarens, Playas de Algaiarens, Algaiarens Beach, Cala d’Algaiarens, La Vall or La Vall d’Algaiarens. Basically, Cala Algaiarens is the collective name given to two beaches here – Platja des Tancat and Platja des Bot. Both beaches are classified as ‘virgin beaches’. These beaches are considered the most serene, untouched and secluded beaches in Menorca.

Cala Algaiarens: Platja des Bot and Platja des Tancat

Once you arrive at Cala Algaiarens, the first beach you’ll explore is Platja des Tancat. Out of all of the beaches that you’ll explore on this coastal walk, it’s got the longest stretch of sand.

From there, you’ll continue to Platja des Bot. To reach this other beach, you’ll follow a short trail surrounded by dense pine trees. You’ll soon arrive at a small riverstream called Canaló d’en Sintes, which connects with Platja des Bot. Turn left and you’ll immediately take footsteps on the sand of Platja des Bot. In winter, Canaló d’en Sintes can flood the southern flank of the beach, meaning you might have to wade to get to to the other side. But, usually, with minimal rainfall in summer, it’s easy to explore the entire beach at Platja des Bot.

Once you’ve finished exploring Cala Algaiarens, it’s time to retrace your steps to complete the hike. Upon our return to Cala Morell, we decided to walk through its streets, rather than descend the steps by the beach. By doing so, we followed more of those blue and white tiled markers.

How to Get to Cala Morell

There are several ways to get to Cala Morell. The closest sizeable town to Cala Morell is Ciutadella, which is on the west coast of Menorca. It’s fairly simple and straightforward to get to Cala Morell from Ciutadella.

Getting to Cala Morell From Ciutadella

From Ciutadella, you can catch a bus, drive yourself or get a taxi to Cala Morell. Let’s explore those options below.

Public Transport: Bus

It’s possible to reach Cala Morell using public transport. You can catch the 20 minute Line 62 bus from this bus stop (Plaça dels Pins) in Ciutadella. You’ll pay €2.05 for a one-way ticket. To return to Ciutadella, simply catch the Line 65 bus from this bus stop in Cala Morell.

Keep in mind, that the Line 62 bus service, like all bus services in Menorca, run more regularly in peak season from June to September. Personally, when Beck and I visited in November 2021, the Line 62 bus wasn’t in operation. Please check this website for the latest details on timetables. Hopefully, outside of peak season, there will be just a reduced service, rather than total cancellation of the service, as we experienced.

Taxi

It’s possible to get a taxi from Ciutadella to Cala Morell. The drive time is around 10 minutes and the journey should cost around €10. Getting a taxi from Ciutadella to Cala Morell should be fairly straightforward. But, there may not be any taxis waiting in Cala Morell. So, you may just want to have the contact number of a taxi company if you want to get catch a taxi back to Ciutadella from Cala Morell. For more information on taxis in Menorca, please read this guide.

Car Rental

Of course, the easiest and simplest way to get to Cala Morell is by driving there yourself. Given the reduced bus service outside of peak season, you may want to consider a car hire if you visit between October and May. We hired an automatic car from Menorca Airport for only €13/day.

To find out more about renting a car with Discover Cars, read our Discover Cars review and Discover Cars Insurance review.

Getting to Cala Morell From Menorca Airport

From Menorca Airport, you could use public transport, drive yourself or get a taxi to reach Cala Morell. By far, the easiest option is to hire a car from Menorca Airport and drive yourself. Of course, you may be staying elsewhere on the island. So, again, being able to drive yourself to Cala Morell from your accommodation, wherever that is, will be the simplest option.

We don’t recommend getting public transport from Menorca Airport to Cala Morell. That’s because you’ll need to catch three buses, which’ll take a couple of hours. Similarly, we don’t recommend catching a taxi. Sure, a taxi is much quicker (45 minute drive). But, from Menorca Airport, the cost of a taxi to Cala Morell is fixed at around €64 and €0.60 per item of luggage. A bit pricey if you ask us. May as well just hire a car (approx. €10–15/day) and make your own way there.

Other Things to Do in Cala Morell

Other than doing the coastal walk to Cala Algaiarens from Necropolis de Cala Morell, there are a few other things we recommend doing in Cala Morell. Let’s start by looking at options for swimming.

Swimming

At Cala Morell, you won’t find a sandy beach as such. But, there are plenty of flat rock platforms by the water. These platforms are great for sunbathing and chilling out by the sea. You can also access the water easily from these seaside platforms.

Eat Out: Cala Morell Restaraunts

Cala Morell isn’t a hugely popular resort town, compared to some other coastal hubs around the island. But, you’ll still find great restaurants. In particular, Ivette Beach Club is the standout restaurant for tourists.

Ivette Beach Club

Ivette Beach Club is an iconic restaurant in Cala Morell. It’s the most popular place to eat in the area. Certainly, after finishing this coastal walk, you’ll have worked up an appetite to eat and drink at Ivette Beach Club. Although, we’ve read a few recent reviews (late 2022) that criticise the menu, service and quality. Just saying.

Cala Morell Accomodation

Cala Morell would be an awesome place to stay in Menorca. This coastal settlement has a much quieter vibe and peaceful ambience compared with other busy resort towns on the island. In addition, if you’re interested in doing the coastal walk, staying in Cala Morell would work out well.

You’ll find Cala Morell apartments are the most highly-rated and popular type of accommodation. Whilst, villas are less popular, but a more luxurious option. We’ve handpicked the best budget, mid-range and luxurious Cala Morell apartments. Whilst we’re at it, we’ll briefly talk about the best villa in the area.

• Budget – Apartamentos Sa Cala: this apartment is the most popular accommodation choice in the area. Apartamentos Sa Cala has everything you’ll need in terms of amenities and provides sweeping views out to the sea.
• Mid-range – Apartamentos Sa Cornisa: these apartments might not be as popular as Apartamentos Sa Cala, but they are more highly rated. Featuring an epic pool, Apartamentos Sa Cornisa has amazing facilities and amenities. Not to mention the awesome sea views. FYI – this apartment is located just 50 metres from Necropolis de Cala Morell, which means you can easily start the walk from here.
• Luxurious – Duplex Es Brucs: this property is an underrated choice when it comes to staying in the area. Duplex Es Brucs is a fine set of apartments, offering private balconies with sweeping sea views.
• Best villa – Villas Es Brucs: this villa is the most popular in the area. Villas Es Brucs has a fully-equipped kitchen, terraces with garden views, barbecue facilities and a serene pool.

Things to Know Before Visiting Cala Morell: Facilities

Before you set out on this coastal walk, there are a few useful things to know about Cala Morell. In particular, it’s worth knowing about the facilities there. Even if you don’t plan on staying in the area, it’s worth knowing more about the best places to park. Also, we’ll briefly discuss facilities like grocery stores.

Parking and Accessing Cala Morell

Parking can be a bit of a minefield at Cala Morell. The most seemingly obvious place to park is just opposite the beach near the end of Carrer Orio. There’s street side parking opposite the boat ramps and rock platforms by some large garbage bins. You’ll find locals parking here. But, this parking is considered unofficial. In addition, parking here makes the narrow road even trickier to navigate. So, we don’t recommend parking here. Better stick to the official parking areas.

As mentioned, for the early birds, we suggest simply parking at the small parking bays next to Necropolis de Cala Morell. But, there are only 12 spots. Thankfully, there are some other areas to park if this fills up.

• Plaça Maestro Juan Manen: this is the largest car park, holding around 50 cars or so.
• Street parking next to Ivette Beach Club: you’ll find around 20 parking spots here.
• Mirador Cala Morell: as a last resort, there are a few spots here near the amazing viewpoint.

Groceries: Head to Lidl in Ciutadella

You won’t find much, if any, in the way of supermarkets or grocery stores in Cala Morell. If you’re keen to do your own cooking, we recommend doing food shopping at the nearby Lidl in Ciutadella.

What About ATMs?

There are no ATMs in Cala Morell. Restaurants accept cards, but you might want some cash on you during your visit. Just in case.

What About Car Rental Agencies?

Similar to ATMs, there are no car rental agencies in Cala Morell. For the most convenient and best value car hire, rent from Menorca Airport.

Gear Essentials

These are our five hiking gear essentials for this coastal walk.

To find out more about all of the gear that we use and recommend, read our guides about our favourite hiking gear, travel gear and camera gear. Otherwise, read our comprehensive travel packing checklist.

You should also take water, snacks, lunch, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, swimmers and a towel.

Bonus Tips About Visiting Menorca

• Punta Prima to Cala Sant Esteve: this is another coastal walk worth doing in Menorca.
• Explore Ciutdealla: this coastal town isn’t far from Cala Morell. There are plenty of awesome things to do in Ciutadella. We recommend doing a boat tour around the gorgeous coastal area near the town. GetYourGuide offers two amazing tours – Natural Coves and Beaches Boat Trip and Full Day Boat Tour. Both tours include a delicious paella lunch.
• Head to Binibeca: you must visit this outstanding white-washed village during your time in Menorca. Whilst you’re there, you should also visit the nearby Cala Binibeca for a swim.
• Find out more about hiking in Menorca: feel free to watch our Menorca hiking video. Also, you can read our Menorca hiking guide, where we talk about eight epic day hikes on the island.

For other fantastic hikes in the Balearic Islands, check out our Mallorca hiking guide, where we talk about the nine best hikes on the island.