Holidays to Colonia Sant Jordi

The main attractions of Colonia Sant Jordi are the spectacular beaches of Es Trenc and Ets Estanys. Es Trenc, in particular, is one of the most famous beaches on Majorca, an immense sweep of sand backed by Mediterrean pines and lapped by turquoise waters. Ets Estanys, another gorgeous golden beach, is closer to Colonia Sant Jordi, and has more facilities. There are smaller beaches in the resort itself, including one next to the pretty port. You can take boat trips out to the island of La Cabrera, a National Park, which has some fantastic walks. Its protected waters are home to endangered creatures such as turtles and whales. You can also visit the historic salt flat in nearby Ses Salines or visit the delightful country town of Santanyí.

You’ll find a good choice of cafés and restaurants in Colonia Sant Jordi, many of which are lined up along the seafront. Seafood is a staple of many menus, along with paella and other Mediterranean rice dishes such as arròs negre, which is made with squid ink. You could also try fideuà, which is similar to paella but uses tiny noodles instead of rice. Other staples include tumbet, a vegetable dish made with sliced potatoes, aubergine and red peppers, and roast or grilled meats, particularly lamb and pork. For breakfast, join the locals and have a milky coffee (cafè amb llet) with a fresh, sugar-dusted ensaïmada pastry.

The relaxed, low-key atmosphere and wonderful beaches make Colonia Sant Jordi a great option for sun, sea and sand holidays with the family. Kids will love the sandy beaches, and the water is clear and clean – perfect for snorkelling, kayaking and splashing about in. There are lots of boat excursions leaving from the port, including boats out to Cabrera island, a National Park, which has some wonderful walking trails. Kids will also enjoy getting around by bike, thanks to the flat, well-marked trails. There are water parks and an aquarium in Palma, about a 45-minute drive away, if you’re looking for something different to do with the kids. 

You’ll find plenty of water sports available in Colonia Sant Jordi, including sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving and paddle boarding. There are lots of local suppliers where you can rent equipment. There are scores of fantastic hikes in the area, as well as a network of biking trails, which link the stunning beaches. You could also take a boat excursion out to the island of Cabrera, which is a National Park, and is home to a wealth of unique species of animals and plants. It has several superb walking trails, and its pristine coastline is perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches in Colonia Sant Jordi! There are two small town beaches – the Platja d’es Dolç and the Platja d’es Dofí – which are delightful little curves of sand. They extend east to the wonderful, unspoilt beaches of Es Carbó and Es Caragol. To the west are two jewels of the Majorcan coastline: the beaches of Ets Estanys and Es Trenc, wonderful swathes of sand. Take note that Es Trenc is popular with nudists. The best way to explore the coastline is by bike, because the area is conveniently flat and there are well marked paths. 

Colonia Sant Jordi is quiet and relaxed, so don’t expect much in the way of big bars and clubs. You’ll be well served with local bars and cafés, though, many of which enjoy panoramic seafront settings. Several of the local pubs and bars host live music, karaoke nights and other events, particularly during the summer months. If you’re looking for a wider range of nightlife and clubs, you’ll probably have to head into Palma, the island’s vibrant capital, which has everything from intimate jazz bars to glamorous beachfront clubs where you can sprawl on lounge beds and listen to DJ sessions. 

Colonia Sant Jordi is the perfect place to relax with your partner if you want a holiday with plenty of sunshine, gorgeous beaches, and beautiful landscapes to explore on foot or by bike. The town is small but has everything you need to make the most of your holiday, including plenty of romantic restaurants and bars where you can relax on balmy evenings. The magnificent beaches are the biggest draw, but they are so extensive that you’ll always manage to find a secluded corner to yourself. And if you want to make a day trip, the beautiful island capital of Palma, with its enchanting warren of ancient streets, is a delight to explore on foot. 

The gorgeous city of Palma is just 45 minutes away by car, and boasts a beautifully preserved historic quarter and a wide choice of galleries and museums. The splendid cathedral dominates the warren of tiny lanes in the old quarter, along with the 14^th-century Royal Palace. Don’t miss the outstanding museum of contemporary art, set in a 16^th-century bastion, which has amazing views out to sea. Just outside the city is the Pilar and Joan Miró Foundation, which preserves the great artist’s studio, and has extensive exhibition galleries. The charming gardens are dotted with Miró’s sculptures.