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Cala Santandria Introduction
Cala Santandria is situated on the western coast of the archipelago Balearic island of Menorca. The western coastline is more flat and even but is still within mountainous ranges. Cala Santandria is a traditional and sleepy resort relatively untouched by tourism, so if you are looking for a sleepy place to relax and unwind, then Cala Santandria hits the spot perfectly. Cala Santandria has become a popular destination for all ages, but whatever your age, it guarantees complete chill out.
Whilst there are hotels and holiday homes in Cala Santandria, it is also possible to find a get away from it allspot, where you will be able to enjoy local customs and traditions in an enchanting way. There are all inclusive packages and cheap packages with the best prices on offer. It is within easy reach of the UK to enable you to take a romantic weekend break in one of the value for money hotels. Budget holidays are practical, particularly if you are looking for a second holiday of the year. There is an abundance of low cost, value for money hotels available. With the short flight from the UK a weekend break is more than a possibility.
Golf and tennis are popular sports around the area of Cala Santandria. Nightlife is generally hotel based where you can have a romantic dinner with a view to die for, and enjoy peaceful surroundings. Horseriding and cycling too are possible with the wonderful countryside on offer. Why not take some time to enjoy one of the fiestas that take place throughout the year, to which you will be welcomed with traditional Menorcan hospitality.
If you are looking for a magical beach, set in idyllic surroundings then Cala Santandria has what you are looking for. It is said to be the most beautiful beach of Menorca, with its azure blue sea. It is an ideal place to take children as the beach is long, gently sloping and very safe. Of course the main attraction is the superb beach, where the children can play safely while you watch on and recharge your batteries. The beach has some tranquil water sports and other facilities like parasols and sun beds and there is no question with Cala Santandria, that you will find a piece of paradise.
Cala Santandria is in a region that has plenty going for it: you can find excursions incorporating history and culture or, for the entire family there are water parks, aquariums or a zoo to visit and much more. Water sports are in abundance on most of the popular beaches. Mahon is only a short distance away and offers shops and markets twice a week. Cala Santandria's location in the south of the island also makes it a great base for exploring some of the island's history and culture
Slightly further a field there is Mount Torro, Menorca's highest point at 358 m above sea level with its fantastic views to die for! You can also visit the Albufera des Grau, the nature reserve wetlands which is home to some fine birds and plants and there are also some ancient ruins here. You can see some pre-historic caves and burial chambers at Cales Coves, The Torre d'En Gaumes where an archaeological dig uncovered BC remains, the Torralba d'En Salort a Tayayotic settlement and the La Mola Fortress in Mahon. To entertain the children there are two water parks at Ciutadella both with a variety of water slides, toboggans, and chutes which will amuse the children and maybe give you a chance to just relax and enjoy the glorious weather.
The hospitality of the local people is friendly; they can't do enough to help you. Eating out is not expensive and you will find families are welcomed, with value for money meals. Children are always welcomed and the entire resort is family orientated. There is something to suit everyone's taste.
With so many options available and so much to see and do it is little wonder that the resort has become one of the most popular on the island. Fabulous beaches, fascinating landscapes and history, superb sports and family facilities, fine dining and a laid back nightlife all combine to make a visit to Cala Santandria a truly unforgettable experience.
With all this in mind, go ahead, pack your costume and set off for your dream holiday!
Cala Santandria Location
Cala Santandria is situated on the western coast of the archipelago Balearic island of Menorca. The western coastline is more flat and even but is still within mountainous ranges. Cala Santandria is a traditional and sleepy resort relatively untouched by tourism, so if you are looking for a sleepy place to relax and unwind, then Cala Santandria hits the spot perfectly. Cala Santandria is approximately 50 kms distance from the airport at Mahon, so it won't be long before you are unpacking your case and putting on your flip flops.
Cala Santandria History
The Balearic Islands, of which the most well known island of Majorca is the largest, were formed some 150 million years ago. Menorca at this time was thought to be entirely submerged, and it was over 140 million years before it emerged as an island. From these humble roots the island became highly significant, both in a historical sense as well as in its current position as one of the most popular destinations for British and European holidaymakers alike.
Historians have discovered human remains and relics that are thought to date back to as far as 1300BC. Whilst there are some indications that the people of the island engaged with trade with the surrounding Mediterranean states, the amount of weaponry found on the island would suggest a violent, tribal existence. Due to its location, and the Balearic Islands in general (particularly Ibiza or Elvissaas it was then known), was prominent in the histories and trading of first the Phoenicians and then the Carthaginians.
Mostly due to the numbers of incidents of piracy and ambush attributable to the peoples of the Isles, the Roman's invaded and conquered the Balearics in around 123BC. Consequently, five centuries of Roman rule followed. As with much of their empire, the Romans did a great deal to establish many of the technological and social advances which grounded Menorcan culture.
This period was followed by a Vandal invasion in 426, who then ruled over the Balearics until 534. The Byzantines then conquered and controlled the region, bringing with them the influence of Christianity and the building of many churches - several of which are still in existence today. At the start of the 8th Century a series of attacks were launched on the Isles by the Moorish countries of North Africa who then effectively controlled the Balearics until 1229. This period can be seen as the root of many aspects of Menorcan culture - particularly in the Arts, cuisine and folk stories of the region.
Menorca finally was assumed into Spanish control when Jamie I (Jaume I) set sail from Salou and conquered took control of the Balearics as part of the Aragon Empire. Majorca was given to his son, Jamie II, and was ruled as an independent state - a period in which the island saw a huge increase in fortunes when many buildings, villages and amenities were built.
However, by 1344 the success of Menorca's industry and agriculture made it appealing to the Catalonian powers across the sea and it was consequently taken over, by military force, into a centralised rule. After the collusion of the kingdoms of Aragon and Castile, Menorca became a part of the newly unified country of Spain. It was only after the fall of Franco in 1975 the issue of Menorcan independence started to rise again, and in the 1978 Spanish Constitution sanctioned the formation of a provincial government that the island still maintains to this day.
It is Menorca's history, including as it does such a multitude of cultural influences (Roman, Moorish, Catalonian, etc.) and its sustained periods of independence, that makes this island such a unique place. Menorca still maintains its individualism and culture. All of this make this island such a fantastic place for tourists from all over the world - many of whom come and enjoy such a variety of different aspects of this beautiful island.
Getting to and around Cala Santandria
Air
The best and most usual way of getting to Menorca is by plane. There are numerous flight operators departing from most European countries, there are scheduled services, tour operators and low cost airlines too. Flying time to Menorca from the UK is approximately 2 hours so you will be there arriving before you even know it. The airport is situated just outside the capital, Mahon and there is a shuttle bus service to the Bus Station in Mahon. You will also find plenty of taxis waiting once you arrive. A point worth mentioning is that you may find an additional charge for your baggage. Cala Santandria is approximately 50 kms distance from the airport.
Mahon Airport
See Mahon Airport Guide
Airlines
Easyjet, First Choice, Flythomascook, GB Airways, Jet2, Monarch, Mytravellite, Thomsonfly,
Bus
Menorca has its own public bus service called Transportes Menorca. For visiting the main resorts around Menorca it has a good timetable, although this tends to operate at slightly different times at different times of year. The word Paradais what you need to look out for to find where the bus stop is situated.
Sea
There are ferry operators which travel between mainland Spain and Menorca and Ibiza.
Car Hire
Once in Menorca, probably the best and most convenient way to tour around the island and go to the various beaches (some a bit off the beaten track) and attractions is by car hire. Car hire is reasonable, and ranges from small saloons to 4 x 4 vehicles. To hire a car it is essential to have your valid passport and driving licence when you sign the agreement. You can either hire a car direct from an agent within a resort or speak to your hotel who can arrange this for you.
Taxis
There are a number of good taxi operators throughout Menorca although prices vary slightly between them. If you wish to be taken on a longer journey it would be better to negotiate a fixed tariff, and perhaps shop around until you get the best price.
Transfers from the airport
Arriving at a foreign airport can often be a strenuous affair and with most customers traveling independently these days having a pre-booked airport transfer is an essential part of your holiday package. Local taxis at the airport can sometimes be limited or with long queues, by booking a pre-booked you can not only make a fantastic saving on your transfer but also avoid all the stress of queues and haggling with taxi drivers. Book your airport transfer service here now >>
Airport Shuttle Bus Service
In most of our gateway airports you can pre-book an Airport Shuttle Service. This is a pre-booked only service that operates between the relevant airport and holiday resort. In normal times you can expect to wait up to 30 minutes for your shuttle bus to arrive however as this is a pre-negotiated service and only available to participating travel companies then expect to pay far less to get from the airport to your destination accommodation than other traditional forms or transport such as local taxis. Book your airport shuttle service here now>>
Cala Santandria Car Hire
Hiring a car in Cala Santandria is a simple thing to do. You need to be 21 or over and carry a valid licence which you have held for a minimum of 1 year. An International Licence is not necessary, but highly recommended as you could be refused without one. Children up to 3 years old must be in a child seat, and children up to 12 years are not allowed in the front of the car. Please note that in Spain they drive on the right side of the road.
Hiring a car is probably the best and most convenient way to tour around the resorts and go to the various beaches (some a bit off the beaten track) and attractions both around the resort and further a field. Car hire is reasonable, and ranges from small saloons to 4 x 4 vehicles.
Many UK Tour Operators and Retailers have pre-negotiated rates with most reliable local companies and prices are usually cheaper by booking in advance. Check out our fantastic pre-booked car hire rates now here>>
Cala Santandria Sightseeing
The majority of holiday makers who come to Cala Santandria are content to just enjoy the peace and quiet, fine restaurants, and soak up the sunshine, those who choose to explore the region a little more, are sure to find many different attractions and sights that will truly make each visit to the 'Island of the Calm' an unforgettable experience. The main attraction in Cala Santandria is the magnificent beach with fantastic facilities and water sports options.
Take a tour of the Museums
Menorca has such a delightful and interesting history which you can see and learn about in its museums. They are scattered around the island but you can easily find them. The most popular ones are the Museum of Menorca in Mahon which has famous artefacts and archaeological exhibits from the Tayayotic, Muslim and Roman periods. There is also the Museum Municipal in Ciudadela which has artefacts also from the Tayayotic, Muslim and Roman periods and the wonderful Museum de la Natura de Menorca in Ferreries which is an information centre where you can learn about the plants and fauna of Menorca.
Cales Coves pre-historic caves and burial chambers
You can see a fine collection of pre historic caves which are cut into the rock face. Visitors to the Bronze Age caves can see paintings and carvings which divulge information about how that civilisation used to live their lives.
The Torre d'En Gaumes
The largest archaeological dig which uncovered remains from the period before Christ. The unusual shaped stones in these settlements are round or square, perhaps providing tombs, meeting houses or even where people lived. The strange Navetas are also here, they derive their name from their unusual shape which is like an upturned boat.
The Church of Esglesia de Santa Maria
With its magnificent organ, which has more than 3000 pipes shouldn't be missed. A serene and peaceful place to visit where once inside you will feel the coolness of the church walls. The church can be reached via some quaint narrow streets through the centre of Mahon.
Admiral Nelson's House
A magnificent architectural building which it is believed was the residence and headquarter's of the Admiral during the British occupation of the island in 1798 - 1802. You can only see the house from the outside, but even so it is quite an important feature of Menorca.
Xoriguer Gin Distillery
Why not have a tipple, or two and visit the distillery to sample the delights of the locally made gin. As well as tasting sessions, you can also learn how gin is made and the distillery has a shop where you can buy, at a very good price, gin.
Top Things to do in Cala Santandria
The majority of holiday makers who come to Cala Santandria are content to just enjoy the peace and quiet, fine restaurants, and soak up the sunshine, those who choose to explore the region a little more, are sure to find many different attractions and sights that will truly make each visit to the 'Island of the Calm' an unforgettable experience. The main attraction in Cala Santandria is the magnificent beach with fantastic facilities and water sports options.
Aqua Parks Ciutadella
There are two water parks at Ciutadella both with a variety of water slides, toboggans, and chutes which will amuse the children these offers fun day out for all the family, from the most exciting rides for the more courageous, to the more relaxing, where you can find peace and quiet for the less adventurous. Each and everyone of the family will find the ideal ride for them. Ciutadella is approximately 3kms from Cala Santandria.
Mount Torro
Why not visit Menorca's highest point at 358 m above sea level. The views are stunning on a clear day and provide plenty of opportunities to take photographs. You can also see a 16thcentury built sanctuary. The mountain can be reached from Mahon, so is only about 50 kms from the resort.
Albufera des Grau
These wetlands are a nature reserve which also include sand dunes and is home to some birds and plants. Nature lovers will be in their element here with about 100 different types of bird and migrating cormorants. There are also some Talayotic and Roman ruins here. The wetlands are approximately 35 kms from Cala Santandria.
Go to theSanta Águeda Castle
If you fancy taking a climb 260 m above sea level, then head for the Santa Águeda Castle. The climb up the Roman road is spectacular and the views when you get to the peak are amazing. The castle is a mixture of Roman and Moorish design. You can reach the castle via Ciudadela, and the journey distance is approximately 15 kms.
Take a tour of the Museums
Menorca has such a delightful and interesting history which you can see and learn about in its museums. They are scattered around the island but you can easily find them. The most popular ones are the Museum of Menorca in Mahon which has famous artefacts and archaeological exhibits from the Tayayotic, Muslim and Roman periods. There is also the Museum Municipal in Ciudadela which has artefacts also from the Tayayotic, Muslim and Roman periods and the wonderful Museum de la Natura de Menorca in Ferreries which is an information centre where you can learn about the plants and fauna of Menorca.
Cales Coves pre-historic caves and burial chambers
You can see a fine collection of pre historic caves which are cut into the rock face. Visitors to the Bronze Age caves can see paintings and carvings which divulge information about how that civilisation used to live their lives.
The Torre d'En Gaumes
The largest archaeological dig which uncovered remains from the period before Christ. The unusual shaped stones in these settlements are round or square, perhaps providing tombs, meeting houses or even where people lived. The strange Navetas are also here, they derive their name from their unusual shape which is like an upturned boat.
The Church of Esglesia de Santa Maria
With its magnificent organ, which has more than 3000 pipes shouldn't be missed. A serene and peaceful place to visit where once inside you will feel the coolness of the church walls. The church can be reached via some quaint narrow streets through the centre of Mahon at just 15 kms away from Cala Santandria.
Admiral Nelson's House
A magnificent architectural building which it is believed was the residence and headquarter's of the Admiral during the British occupation of the island in 1798 - 1802. You can only see the house from the outside, but even so it is quite an important feature of Menorca.
Xoriguer Gin Distillery
Why not have a tipple, or two and visit the distillery to sample the delights of the locally made gin. As well as tasting sessions, you can also learn how gin is made and the distillery has a shop where you can buy, at a very good price, gin.You can find the distillery near Castillo, which is approximately 45 kms distance.
Make sandcastles on the beach
The beach of Cala Santandria is delightful as it is pure white sand and said to be one of the best on Menorca. The sea shore has a gentle shelve so it is practical and safe for children to splash and play in. Traditional water sports such as windsurfing, para gliding and sailing are popular, while scuba diving and snorkelling is a magical experience. So whether you are an old hand at some of these, or a beginner the opportunities are there for you to try.
Diving and snorkelling
Scuba diving around the coastline of Cala Santandria is the ideal way to discover the amazing world under the sea abundant with marine wonders. The extensive shoreline of this Mediterranean resort is blessed with the best climate you could wish for, warm water temperature and a seabed full of life. Combining both adventure and discovery, diving promotes awareness about nature conservation. The underwater flora and fauna in striking shapes and hues cast a magical spell on scuba divers.
Horseback Riding
Horse riding is the perfect way to explore the resort of Cala Santandria and its villages off the beaten track. So whether you are a beginner, intermediate or an expert, with loads of fresh air and gorgeous countryside coupled with fantastic exercise, what more could you ask for?
Local Fiestas
Experience one of the local village fiesta. These are generally lots of fun and the perfect way to mix and mingle with the locals. Fiestas can last all day long and see buzzing processions and a real party atmosphere.
Tapas
Feast on tapas. Tapas are a national snack best had at the bar along with a glass of wine or cool beer. Apart from the aspect of staving off your hunger, eating tapas is not particularly a touristy venture and will see you rub shoulders with the locals.
Flamenco Dancing
Stamp the Flamenco. Descended from the gypsies, flamenco is celebrated all over the country but mainly in southern areas. Enjoy one of the many fiestas where the song, guitar and dance of the flamenco are shown at their best through the beautiful dresses.
Shopping in Cala Santandria
Dotted around the resort of Cala Santandria there are a few souvenir shops, bars, cafes and restaurants. There are a couple of supermarkets, so if you are self catering you can buy your everyday requirements. However, the choice if very limited here, which is perhaps good if you want to find perfect peace and tranquility. You are within easy reach of Ciudadela which has a little more in the way of shops.
A good way to catch some bargains is to visit a town market. Nearby Ferreries has three markets each week, two of which sell locally grown produce. The third, on Saturdays, is a local craft market which holiday makers are drawn to. Ciudadela has a daily market selling fresh produce and a weekly market on Saturdays. Street markets provide a great chance to people watch and mingle amongst the locals. This is undoubtedly an experience you should not miss when holidaying here. There you will find stalls dedicated to intricately woven lace, fresh produce, fish, olives, chorizo, flowers, leather of all kinds in shoes, sandals, handbags, purses and more. Try your bartering skills, go on - have some fun its all part of the holiday magic!
Mahon cheese is renowned in Menorca, the people of Menorca are very proud of their cheese which they produce with great care. You will find the cheese being sold everywhere around the island.
If you are buying tobacco, perfume and alcohol you should remember that the Balearic Islands are duty free so these things are much cheaper here, than even at the airport. However, when returning to the UK you will have to declare your items as you will be treated as a passenger from outside of the EEC.
Eating out in Cala Santandria
Dining out in Cala Santandria can be a real pleasure and one thing is for sure, you won't be short on choice. It has a small selection of restaurants which serve traditional Spanish food, but there is also some international menus on offer. Restaurants are traditional and the Sangria flows freely to welcome you.
The hospitality of the local people is friendly; they can't do enough to help you. Eating out is not expensive and you will find families are welcomed, with value for money meals. Children are always welcomed and the entire resort is family orientated. There is something to suit everyone's taste.
A good option to try is a menu del diawhich is basically a plate of the day meal, a real bargain with 3 courses and usually with a drink, this is exceptional good value.
There are some good Spanish wines to try, particularly Cava - a sparkling wine. Sangria, as always on a Spanish Island, is ever popular. If you are taking a drink in a bar, these may be accompanied with tapas, which you may find as wholesome and hearty as a main meal itself. We mustn't forget to mention about Spanish Sherry, usually from Jerez, a pure delight as an aperitif or even with your meal.
You can take a pavement table, absorbing the atmosphere, gazing at the stars and feeling truly relaxed, well after all you are on holiday so why shouldn't you?
Menorcan Local Customs
Smoking in public places is banned and stiff fines will be imposed for smoking in areas such as enclosed public spaces, areas where food is prepared and sold, public transport, designated areas of bars and restaurants, and any places that cater for children.
Although it is generally the norm in highly touristy areas, such as the streets of Torremolinos, appearing drunk in public in Spain is frowned upon as is swearing in any language. Friends and family kiss each other on the cheeks but a firm handshake for Spanish male-to-male friends is quite appropriate.
Topless bathing on Spain's beaches is fine but full nudity should only be practised in those areas that have signboards saying nudity is permitted.
Nightlife in Cala Santandria
Cala Santandria is not the place to go if you are looking to party, party and more party! What nightlife there is can be very quiet and hardly what you would call buzzing. Nightlife in Cala Santandria is a quiet affair which is mostly hotel based. There are just a handful of bars that you can find in the old streets, which are family friendly and children are very welcome.
There are some hotels in Cala Santandria that offer evening entertainment such as Salsa dancing or a Flamenco Show, both of which will have your feet tapping along with the music in no time at all. You might be entertained by a hypnotist, or a band. A lot of hotels provide an hour or two of early evening entertainment for the children, like a magician or a mini disco. The kids will just love them!
The resort is ideal for families and couples who enjoy peaceful, relaxing evenings with a hint of entertainment that isgenerally hotel based.
Golf in Cala Santandria
The nearest golf course to Cala Santandria is Golf Son Parc at Son Parc, which is a beautiful course and within easy access to, by foot or by car. The course has 18-holes and was designed by Dave Thomas. You can have fantastic surrounding views amongst the forests and to provide you with an even greater challenge, try not to hit one of the peacocks that lives near the 3rdgreen! The facilities are outstanding, you will be amazed and enthralled by what is on offer here.
Events and Festivals in Cala Santandria
Menorca has a busy calendar of regular events and fiestas throughout the year. These often provide a fascinating addition to a holiday and give the opportunity for holidaymakers and visitors alike to experience Menorcan culture and traditions and are often colourful and lively affairs. Here is a guide to some of the major events.
January
The Procession of the 3 Kings
On 5 January in Mahon this takes place with a camel riding through the streets and children being given sweets and gifts along the way. It is a grand celebration with lots of activity and fun, lots of music and laughter, the children will adore this as the Three Kings in effect replace Father Christmas for Spanish children
St Anthony's Day (date varies each year)
Held in Cuidadella a grand procession with the statue of St Anthony paraded around the city of Cuidadella
February
End of Lent (date varies each year)
Another grand carnival which is held in many villages and towns throughout the island, with fancy dress and costumes
March/April
Holy Week (date varies each year)
A religious celebration to mark Holy Week which is held all around the island, particularly in the bigger Towns. Religious processions and blessings take place
May
Corpus Christi
From May 1 to May 22 an important religious festival throughout the whole of Spain, and its islands which features colourful processions and costumes.
Festival of the May Crosses
On the 5May Cala Santandria celebrates with a big religious festival involving services and lots of popular activities which all the local people participate in. There are some competition events and lots of decoration around the streets.
June
Fiesta of Saint Joan
On 24 June a parade takes place with costumes and horses and this is also King Juan Carlos's name day. Many European countries celebrate their name days in a traditional way
San Juan
Is a celebration of the summer solstice or the longest day of the year. Popular throughout Spain and all the Spanish islands. San Juan's night is full of bonfires, fireworks, music, dancing, sardines and bread. It's the welcome to summer, and its celebration takes place during the shortest night of the year. Many towns, cities or villages celebrate this first Summer Fiesta. All the celebrations share some things in common, yet each also has its peculiarity. Bonfires, fire and water are the protagonists of the night. Men and women, young people and children, all dedicate their days and afternoons to the preparation of bonfires. According to tradition, if people jump three times over a bonfire on San Juan's night, they will be cleansed and purified, and their problems burned away.
July
Our Lady of Carmen Festival
A boat procession takes place with lots of colour, music and traditional maritime festivities. Del Carmen is the patron saint of fishermen and sea vessels so you will see her statue in the lead boat. This religious and colourful fiesta is held, everyone is welcome to join in with the celebrations which are in typical Menorcan style, lots of feasting, drinking and folklore music and costumes.
August
Saint Lorenc festival
In Alaior a variety of music concerts, traditional dancing and horse riding displays
Saint Bartomeu
At Ferreries you can join in and celebrate the patron saint festivity, Saint Bartomeu. In true style there will be costumes and parades, traditional music and dancing and lots of street entertainment. As is usual, the finale is a grand firework display.
Fiesta of Saint Lluis
A magnificent equestrian Fiesta to honour the patron Saint Louis IX where you will see a fantastic display of horsemanship and indeed the spectacular horses themselves performing and showing off their skills.
Ascension
An important religious festival with church services followed by celebrations held around Menorca. It is also a day of national holiday so there may be limited services and shops may not be open.
September
Mare de Deu de Gràcia
Held in Mahon to celebrate the end of the summer festivities a magnificent display of horses paraded through the streets, and some equestrian games take place such as jousting, fun for all the family
November
All Saints Day
On 1 November a national holiday when The Spanish honour the lives of their departed. The day will often have some religious ceremonies and all the cemeteries and graves will be brightly decorated with beautiful flowers.
New Year's Eve
Is naturally enjoyed all over the island with streets lined with people having barbecues outside their houses, and families gathering in preparation for the New Year. The crowds start gathering in the main town squares before midnight on New Years Eve and the atmosphere is buzzing with locals and tourists bringing their wine and grapes. As the clock begins to sound in the New Year it is tradition to eat one grape and have a sip of wine with every strike of midnight.
SPANISH NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
1 January - New Year's Day
6 January - Epiphany
19 March - San Jose
20 March - Maundy Thursday (Easter dates vary annually)
21 March - Good Friday (Easter dates vary annually)
1 May - Labour Day
15 August - Assumption
12 October - National Day
1 November - All Saints' Day
6 December - Constitution Day
8 December - Immaculate Conception
25 December - Christmas Day
Beaches in Cala Santandria
If you imagine looking at a holiday brochure and seeing an idyllic beach, beautiful golden sand with turquoise-blue waves gently rolling into shore then you have probably looked at a picture of Cala Santandria.
Cala Santandria is a beach resort which is close to the town centre. The sand is beautifully clean and the sea is a rich turquoise blue, you won't be disappointed here.
If you are looking for a magical beach, set in idyllic surroundings then Cala Santandria has what you are looking for. It is an ideal place to take children as the beach is gently sloping and very safe.
We should mention however that because the beach is relatively small, it is popular and can become quite crowded, especially at weekends when locals also like to spend time on the beach.
Spain Useful Information
Land Area:
total: 504,782 sq km
land: 499,542 sq km
water: 5,240 sq km
note: there are two autonomous cities - Ceuta and Melilla - and 17 autonomous communities including Balearic Islands and Canary Islands, and three small Spanish possessions off the coast of Morocco - Islas Chafarinas, Penon de Alhucemas, and Penon de Velez de la Gomera
Population:
40,491,051 (July 2008 est.)
Capital City: Madrid
Coastline:4,964 km
Language:
Spanish (Castilian) is the official language, Catalán is also widely used in Barcelona, Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands (Mallorquin is spoken in Majorca), while the Basque language will be heard in this region of northeast Spain and the Gallego language (a bit like Portuguese) is used in Galicia. Despite these many tongues, English is of course widely spoken in tourist areas including in hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Banking Hours:
Banks are generally open Monday-Friday 09:30-14:00 and Saturday 09:30-13:00. Some banks in tourist areas are open every day and with later hours. Most business are closed on Sundays.
Currency:
The Euro () is the official currency of Spain. One Euro = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cent/s.
Currency Exchange:
Cash can usually be exchanged commission-free in exchange offices, banks or hotels. Traveller's cheques can only be exchanged in banks. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, traveller's cheques should be issued in Pounds Sterling or US Dollars.
ATMs are available in most areas and will dispense Euros to Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, Maestro and Eurocard holders. Nearly all machines offer instructions in English, French, German and Spanish. You can usually draw out about 400 euros per day and the exchange rate will vary from bank to bank and please note you may be charged a nominal amount by your bank, and possibly the bank you are withdrawing cash from.
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted, although American Express is less often accepted (e.g., Turkish Airlines does not accept American Express). You can also get cash advances on credit cards. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and shops including Visa, American Express, Diners Club, and MasterCard. Eurocheque cards are also on the rise while travellers' cheques are still a viable form of safely obtaining cash overseas. Have your cheques made in Euros, Pounds Sterling or US dollars.
Customs:
Spanish immigration allow the usual limits on duty-free items for passengers arriving from outside the EU, including: 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; one litre of spirits over 22 per cent proof, or two litres under 22 per cent proof; two litres of wine; 50g of perfume; 250ml of eau de toilette; 500g of coffee and gifts not exceeding 37. Passengers must be 17 years or older to carry through duty-free items and anything over and above these restrictions will need to be declared.
Health:
Spain is a first world country and does not suffer from any exotic diseases and no vaccination certificates are not required to enter the country for the vast majority of travellers. The main health threat comes from sun and sea with more tourists suffering from heat-related ailments than anything else. Most towns will have at least one 24-hour pharmacy as they are required by Spanish law. Travellers on pre prescribed medication should ensure they have enough to last the entire duration of their journey. Spain has a reciprocal health agreement with most EU countries, including the UK, providing emergency health care on the same terms as Spanish nationals. EU travellers should take a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Note this scheme is not a replacement for comprehensive travel insurance which is always a must.
Safety:
Spain, like all western countries, has its share of internal and internationally based problems. Tourists should always be on guard while in built up areas as it pertains to suspicious activity.
Madrid and Barcelona, as Spain's largest cities, have the standard crime expected of the typical Western city. Attacks against tourists are pretty rare, but steering clear of public parks and unsavoury areas at night goes without saying. Remaining vigilant at bus and train stations will also pay dividends. Madrid's main tourist areas of the Prado Museum, Sol, El Rastro flea market, and Plaza Mayor tend to see the worst petty crime, while places to be especially on your guard in Barcelona are Mont Juic, Parc Guell, Plaza Real, the Picasso Museum and in the Gothic Quarter.
Pick pockets are also a big problem in the holiday resorts throughout Spain who tend to work in pairs where one will distract you while the other makes off with your wallet. When carrying cash never leave a wallet in the back pocket and leave credit cards and passports in a hotel safe. Speaking a modicum of Spanish and showing politeness to police will help out if and when one gets caught up in theft.
There is still a potential risk of international terrorism, as in other countries, although the risk to tourists is considered to be low. Be wary of strangers offering or asking for help of any kind, as it is often a distraction for accomplices. There are also scams involving letters sent, either stating that the visitor has outstanding traffic fines from their stay, which must be paid into the given bank account before a certain date, or notifying the visitor that they have won the Spanish lottery and are required to deposit an amount of money into a bank account to secure their winnings.
Tipping:In restaurants the law requires menu prices to include service charge, and tipping is a matter of personal choice - most people leave some small change if they're satisfied and 5-10% is usually plenty. It's common to leave small change at bar and café tables. When tipping you should always include the waiter in a restaurant a bartender in a bar, a taxi driver, a toilet attendant, and hotel cleaning staff.
Electricity/Plug:
Electrical current is 220 or 225 volts, 50Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are standard.
Time Zone:
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between the last Sunday in March and the Saturday before the last Sunday in October). The Canary Islands: GMT (GMT +1 in summer).
Communications:
The International country calling code of Spain is 0034. Local and international telephone calls can be made from hotel rooms, and most hotels also offer fax and Internet access.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Country Passport Required? Visa Required? Return Ticket Required?
British Yes No No
Australian Yes No/2 No
Canadian Yes No/2 No
USA Yes No/2 No
Other EU 1 No No
Passport Note
Spain is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Passports held by EU nationals need only be valid upon entry to and exit from Spain. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Visas
Not required by nationals of EU countries regardless of purpose and/or length of stay; 2. not required by nationals of other countries referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.
Visa Note
Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
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