A sea view always has something special, and if there are also some rocks that create interesting contrasts, you can take spectacular photos with any camera. However, the rock arch of Es Pontàs, near Cala Santanyí, is in a league of its own when it comes to breathtaking landscapes.
This rock formation, shaped like a stone arch or bridge, is one of the most spectacular natural phenomena on the island of Mallorca. Countless influencers have taken selfies here, especially at sunset, for their social media. If you look at the island’s postcards in souvenir shops, you’ll find the image of Es Pontàs on many of them.
A trip to Es Pontàs is not only worthwhile for vacationers in the Cala Santanyí region; in my opinion, it’s a must-visit for everyone spending their holidays in Mallorca. Es Pontàs impressively showcases the fantastic works of art that nature can create.
Whether you’re a passionate photographer or a nature lover, Es Pontàs will not disappoint you.
Guido Veth
A rock formation of unparalleled beauty
In Mallorca, Es Pontàs is known as “the gateway to the sea,” and it almost seems as if a famous artist sculpted this stone arch. However, its extraordinary shape has a completely natural origin, as Es Pontàs was formed by the erosion of an ancient cave.
The arch is about 70 meters wide and rises from the sea on the cliff coast between the coves of Cala Santanyí and Cala Llombards. Its height is about 25 meters. Visitors can stroll along the coast and enjoy the view of this majestic stone arch.
The best view, however, is from the observation platform, which is one of the favorite spots for photography around Cala Santanyí. The water around the arch is very clear, and when it glistens under the sunlight and the wind blows gently, it’s hard to imagine a more beautiful landscape in the world.
It seems particularly interesting to me that from the lookout point, you can see the rocky remains of the ancient cave in the water. For those who do not wish to explore Es Pontàs on foot, there is the option to book a nearby boat tour that takes you to the stone arch.
Es Pontàs: A Legendary Spot for Climbers
Climbers are also drawn to Mallorca and this famous arch. The rock features nine Deep Water Solo routes (climbing solo over water), one of which is considered the most difficult climb in the world.
Advice:
In the film “King Lines,” the famous American climber Chris Sharma takes on, among other challenges, this stone arch. Watching this documentary before your vacation in Mallorca and the trip to Es Pontàs is highly recommended.
Aficionado climbers, however, shouldn’t attempt to conquer this imposing rock on their own: it would be too dangerous! But who knows, maybe during a visit to Cala Santanyí, you could spot an adventurer climbing Es Pontàs.
Es Pontàs – Map and Location
This popular rock formation is located in the southeast of the island, near the town of Santanyí, in Cala Llombards.
Information for the excursion to Es Pontàs
Given its advantageous location, it’s worth combining a visit to Es Pontàs with other activities. The beaches of Cala Santanyí and Cala Llombards are beautiful and invite you to relax and swim in the sea.
If you enjoy exploring the picturesque villages of Mallorca, you can make a stop at the port of Cala Figuera. Es Pontàs is easy to reach, and tourists can park on Sa Cova des Vell Mari street in Cala Santanyí. The free parking is just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, and a sign on the trail indicates the way to Es Pontàs.
The short path is easy to walk even for children. Even so, it is advisable to wear appropriate footwear. In spring, it is common to see locals crouching along the path. It’s not a physical exercise, but rather during this season wild asparagus grows, which is delicious, as I can confirm.
On the way to the viewpoint, you will inevitably pass by a sculpture by the artist Ralf Schaffner.
The artist lived for almost 50 years in Santanyí, and his work is part of the “Sculpture Europe Balance” project, which spans five European countries and seeks to contribute to peace and responsible management of nature. Other fragments of this work are located in places like Bensberg (Germany) and Volgograd (Russia).
Conclusion: Es Pontàs captivates everyone
There is no one who can resist the magic of this place: Es Pontàs is an impressive natural wonder that fascinates all tourists. However, since the trail is rocky and uneven, it is advisable to wear appropriate shoes.
Interesting sights near Es Pontàs:
5,5 km
10 km
16 km
23 km
