In Mallorca, there is a natural spot that rarely receives the attention it deserves. Its turquoise waters and surroundings of pine forests and low cliffs make it a unique place that easily evokes images of destinations as remote as Thailand. This is Cala Varques, an unspoilt cove with fine white sand and a length of between 70 and 100 metres.
The natural features of this cove, where you can explore various sea caves, make it a unique spot for cavers, snorkellers and diving enthusiasts. Places such as the Cueva del Pirata, the Cueva del Xot and the Cova des Coloms are part of the underwater attraction of Cala Varques, offering a mosaic of natural formations reminiscent of some of the most iconic caves of the Thai islands of Ko Phi Phi.
Access and conservation of a wild environment
One of the main values of this beach is its preservation in its natural state. It has no services whatsoever: no showers, bars or lifeguards, which helps to maintain a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. Access to Cala Varques requires a little adventure, as it is necessary to walk along a path for between 20 and 60 minutes from the nearest points or arrive by boat.
This factor is not insignificant. Although in summer it can attract hikers and anchored boats, the absence of large-scale infrastructure protects the landscape and the experience of those seeking intimate contact with Mediterranean nature. In addition, there are naturist areas and old spots for psychobloc or cliff jumping in this area, although many of these activities are regulated or prohibited to preserve safety and the environment.
Comparison with the Thai beaches of Ko Phi Phi
The parallels with the coast of Ko Phi Phi in Thailand are particularly striking. Both locations have:
Transparent, turquoise waters that facilitate marine observation and attract snorkelling enthusiasts.
White sandy beaches surrounded by rock formations, especially limestone, which shape low or high cliffs and natural caves.
Relatively isolated environments where access involves a certain degree of adventure, either by walking or by boat, without the direct intervention of mass tourist services. In Thailand, the Phi Phi Islands are famous for their eroded limestone walls and iconic caves such as Viking Cave and those around Maya Bay. Cala Varques has a similar geography, albeit on a smaller scale, with caves such as Cueva del Pirata and Cova des Coloms that enchant those who explore their depths and surrounding areas.
A haven for those seeking tranquillity
In a world where the most visited beaches have become crowded tourist destinations, Cala Varques still retains that air of a wild and idyllic beach. The combination of pine trees, low cliffs and white sand makes visitors feel as if they are entering an unspoilt and unaltered environment.
Although it is usually busy in high season, limited access and a lack of services ensure that it does not become as crowded as other beaches in Mallorca or the iconic Thai paradises, whose overexploitation by tourists is a cause for concern among conservation experts.
This cove is also a destination that invites visitors to enjoy marine observation from the shore thanks to the transparency of its waters, which attracts amateur and expert cavers, as well as divers looking to explore the caves and submerged rock walls.