Beach Guide: Cala Gossalba (Formentor’s Remote Wild Cove)
At a Glance & Who It’s For
Cala Gossalba is Formentor’s quietest corner—a tiny, rugged inlet reached by hike or boat with no facilities, brilliant water clarity and full-on Tramuntana drama. It’s for adventurous swimmers and snorkellers who love solitude and don’t mind a rocky entry. Families with small kids or anyone wanting shade, sand and services should pick Formentor Beach or Cala Murta instead.
🧭 Location & Getting There (from Palma)
- Area: Formentor peninsula (north Mallorca), beyond Port de Pollença.
- Drive from Palma: ~70–80 min via Ma-13 → Port de Pollença → Formentor road (Ma-2210).
- Parking/shuttle: Seasonal traffic controls operate on the Formentor road. Expect shuttle bus windows and limited parking near popular spots. Plan to arrive early and check same-day signage locally.
- Trail access: Most hikers approach from the Cala Murta side via unsigned/rough paths to the coast (rocky, uneven; allow extra time).
- Boat option: Calm-day access by private boat/kayak from Port de Pollença or Formentor Beach avoids the hike—but still no facilities at the cove.
🗺️ Map Pin (general cove area)
🌊 What to Do at Cala Gossalba
Swim & Snorkel
Rock shelves give way to clear, deep water with boulders and patches of sand. Bring mask, fins and water shoes; enter where swell is lowest.
Wild-Feel Sunbathing
Find a flat rock and settle in. There’s no natural shade, so expect full sun and bring an umbrella if you’ll linger.
Quiet Photography & Nature
This is zero-chiringuito country—just pines, cliffs and the sound of water. Golden hour can be spectacular on calm days.
🏖️ Facilities & Beach Comfort
| Item | Cala Gossalba Notes |
| Lifeguards | None |
| Sunbeds/Parasols | None |
| Showers/WC | None |
| Shade | Minimal – bring your own |
| Entry/Seabed | Rocky shelves, boulders; water shoes recommended |
| Best Time | Early morning for lighter winds/parking flexibility |
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
- Formentor Beach kiosks/cafés: Simple options in season (not at Gossalba itself).
- Port de Pollença promenade: Full range of cafés, ice cream, late lunch/early dinner after the hike.
- Picnic: Most visitors pack snacks + 2–3 L water/person (no shops at the cove).
🛏️ Where to Stay
| Base | Good For | Why It Works |
| Port de Pollença | Beach holiday + hikes | Easy food, boat rentals, bus links |
| Pollença Old Town | Character stays | Evenings on the square; quick drive to coast |
| Alcúdia/Port d’Alcúdia | Family amenities | Big beach days + north-coast day trips |
🗓️ Suggested Day Plan
| Time | Plan |
| Early | Drive to Formentor area, park within rules or use shuttle; start hike before heat |
| Mid-Morning | Swim/snorkel at Cala Gossalba; snack + hydrate |
| Midday | Retreat before wind/swell rises; walk back in shade where possible |
| Afternoon | Late lunch/ice cream in Port de Pollença; optional sunset stop at a Formentor viewpoint |
⚠️ Safety & Seasonal Notes
- Exposure: No shade, no lifeguards, no fresh water—pack plenty and avoid peak heat.
- Sea state: The cove is unprotected; skip if wind/swell are up. Enter/exit with care.
- Footing: Trails are uneven/rocky; wear proper footwear (not flip-flops).
- Rules & access: Respect seasonal traffic controls on the Formentor road and any local signage.
- Leave no trace: Pack out everything—this place stays special because visitors do.
🏺 History, Fun Facts & Did You Know?
The Formentor headland is a protected, jagged spur of the Tramuntana where ancient dry-stone paths and pine terraces still shape the landscape. Gossalba’s isolation is not an accident: the coastline here was prized more for shelter and fishing than for bathing—modern access remains intentionally limited.
❓ FAQ
Is Cala Gossalba suitable for kids?
Only for confident older swimmers used to rocky entries; there’s no sand and no facilities. Families should pick Formentor Beach instead.
Can I reach Cala Gossalba without hiking?
Yes, by private boat/kayak on calm days, but there are no services at the cove. You’ll still need to manage rocky entries.
What’s the best season/time to visit?
Late spring to early autumn on calm mornings. Start early for cooler hiking conditions and easier access/parking.
📡 Check Live Beach Conditions
Platges de Balears – Live Beach Conditions
📚 Related Guides
