Cala Vinas

Cala Vinas is a small seaside resort town in the Calvia district, situated on the south-west coast of Palma Bay and about 20 miles from the capital Palma. Although it is just a few miles from major resorts such as Magaluf, Palma Nova and Santa Ponsa, Cala Vinas has managed to retain its traditional charm and has a reputation as one of the most peaceful parts of the island. The town is built around a rocky cove on a peninsula that enjoys its own micro-climate and more than 300 days of sunshine every year.

The focus of the town is its fine, white-sand beach surrounded by cliffs and pine forests. The water is shallow and sheltered, making it an excellent swimming spot for young children, while the rocky headlands of the cove offer ideal conditions for snorkelling. The beach is enclosed by the gardens of two luxury resort hotels, and is notably less crowded than the beach at nearby Magaluf, even in the peak tourist season. Sun-loungers and parasols are available for hire and life-guards are on duty throughout the summer.

The proximity of Cala Vinas to the more developed resorts of the south-west provides opportunities for a variety of attractions and activities. Magaluf is just over a mile away, an easy walk or cycle ride, and offers numerous restaurants, bars, nightclubs and discos for visitors seeking more excitement than the peaceful surroundings of Cala Vinas. The beach at Magaluf is also a popular centre for water activities, such as windsurfing, paragliding, jet-ski rides and boat tours of the nearby coastal attractions. For families with children, the area offers two popular water parks - Aqualand and the new Wild West-themed Western Water Park, as well as go-karting tracks, adventure theme parks, aquariums and wildlife parks. The Marineland park at the resort town of Portals Nous, a few miles north and east of Cala Vinas, is one of the most popular family attraction in Majorca, with daily shows by performing dolphins and sea-lions.

Other attractions in the area include several chic and celebrated restaurants in the nearby town of Puerto Portals, and the Gran Casino in Cala Vinas itself, which features live music shows combined with fine dining - as well as the opportunity for a flutter at the poker, blackjack and roulette tables. For those who enjoy shopping, the elegant inland town of Andratx, a few miles to the west, holds a local market every Wednesday and is home to several interesting gift shops. The capital Palma can be reached by bus or taxi in about 40 minutes, and is a paradise for shoppers - as well as for visitors who want to learn more about Majorca's historic past with a visit to its Gothic-style cathedral and museums.

The small coastal town of Portals Vells at the tip of the Calvia peninsula makes a good day trip for visitors who want to get away from the main tourist areas. The small harbour was once a refuge for smugglers and pirates, and over the centuries the interior of a large cave has been decorated with intricate carvings and religious symbols. The beach and rocky bay are also good spots for snorkelling.