Spectacular natural wonders - Es Pontás rock gate in Mallorca.

Works of art created by nature have magically attracted people for centuries. An impressive proof of this is the famous rock gate of Mallorca, Es Pontás. Here the wind and the water have worked the coast in such a way that wonderful stone sculptures and formations have been created.

Along the immense cliff, many such bizarre shapes can be found, but hardly any is as impressive as this huge gate. Year after year Es Pontás attracts admirers because of its uniqueness.

It is hard to escape the beauty of this place. In the golden hour, the time just before sunset, the surroundings glow with a warm, radiant light. This magical moment is certainly one of the highlights of any trip to Mallorca.

Everything you need to know about rock gates

Arched rocks or surf gates are created by erosion. In natural science, erosion is the destructive effect of water, ice or wind on layers of stone or earth.

In the case of surf gates, the sea washes softer rock layers out of harder ones. What remains is an arch-like shape reminiscent of a gate. In the desert, such gates are created by soft rock eroding faster than harder layers. This is how a stone arch is formed.

In the Balearic Islands, there are a total of three arches created by the sea. In addition to the Es Pontás, there is the Pont d'en Gil, Ciutadela on Menorca and the stone bridge Sant Antoni de Portmany on Ibiza.

Sightseeing rock gates in the Balearic Islands

Pont d'en Gil is a huge hole in the middle of an elongated rock that goes far into the sea. From a distance, you really have the impression of standing in front of a bridge. If you like to visit such formations, it is definitely worth a trip.

Stone bridge Sant Antoni de Portmany is less spectacular, but well worth seeing if you are planning a vacation in Ibiza. The small stone bridge is part of a beautiful walking path that runs along the sea.

Like most works of art, the gates are ephemeral. At some point, the side walls of the gate become too weak to hold the arch. Then the whole formation collapses. One of the examples of this is the gate on Malta, which suddenly collapsed during heavy surf in 2017. For this reason, it is wise to admire such rock gates from a healthy distance.

Entering or diving through such stone arches, while quite popular with many tourists, can be dangerous in some circumstances. Taking a photo from a distance is the safer option.

Majorca vacation Es Pontàs - activities around the gate

The rock gate in the sea is located in the southeast of Mallorca between Cala Santanyí and Cala Llombards. This motif is so popular that it now adorns many postcards and travel guides. But when you see it with your own eyes, it is even more impressive.

The unusual rock formation inspires not only photographers, but also painters and artists. You can often find amateur artists who want to immortalize the rock in oil or acrylic. Among the more famous works is the painting by Francisco Bernareggi.

Sports enthusiasts are often not deterred from climbing on the rock. Officially, climbing is allowed. However, hardly anyone manages to completely climb the steep rock. So far, it is said, only one professional climber has managed it.

Usually, however, it is enough for most visitors to admire that gate from the beautiful vantage point. A short footpath leads there directly from the parking lot. If you want a very special view, some boat operators also offer excursions. Most boats depart from Cala D'Or or Cala Santanyí.

Majorca sights: The most important info about parking

The excursion to the rock gate is easy to plan and completely uncomplicated. The Cala Santanyi parking lot is easy to find with a navigation system and is well signposted. From this visitor parking lot, a small path leads a little way along the road.

After a few minutes you will already find the sign to the gate. The way from the sign to the gate takes only 10 minutes and already offers a wonderful panorama. At the end of the path there is a paved viewing platform.

On the platform there are benches for resting and picnicking. Enjoy your drinks while listening to the sound of the waves, the cries of the seagulls and a great view. You should not miss this great excursion.

Destination beach of Cala Santanyi

Afterwards, the beach of Cala Santanyi invites you to sunbathe extensively. The place has one of the most beautiful bathing bays of Mallorca. The water is bright blue and very clean. Nestled against the rocks are some beautiful hotels.

These hotels have a high standard and very well maintained facilities and pools. Most of the suites offer a magnificent view directly to the sea and the boats floating in the bay. A variety of good restaurants complete the offer.

Sightseeing in Cala D'Or

Cala D'Or is also a picture-perfect resort. The bay as a whole is somewhat flatter and greener. The bright white facades of the houses stand out effectively against the blue and green.

The town is located about 60 km from Palma and is easy to reach by car. The hotels are very family friendly and perfectly equipped. Although the place is becoming more and more popular, you can still find some quiet corners.

Trip to Cala Figuera

Cala Figuera is one of the most unspoiled places in the area. The bay is quite small, but has a lot of charm and character. The walled paths invite you to take a walk. This charming village is a little insider tip among connoisseurs. Even in summer you can find a quiet place to read or relax in the shade of the numerous trees.

Destination Top- Tip Beach Vacation: Cala Llombards is also close to the rock gate. This sandy beach is one of the best destinations in the region. The fine sand, the crystal clear water and the green rocks offer the optimal vacation scenery. A successful beach vacation is guaranteed here.

Conclusion Mallorca Vacation: The rock gate is one of the most beautiful sights in Mallorca. Nature has created a unique natural work of art here. Around the gate are numerous beautiful villages with family-friendly hotels, which invite you to stay overnight, and magnificent bathing bays. A trip to this region is worthwhile in any case.