Caló dels Ermitans (S’Arenalet de Son Colom) – Tiny Hermits’ Cove in the Muntanyes d’Artà
Location & Beach Profile
Location: 14 kilometres from Artà, between Caló des Corb Marí and Punta de Cas Taverner.
Type of Beach: Natural sand
Length: 20 metres
Average Width: 15 metres
Occupancy: Low
Typical Visitors: Locals
Access: Pedestrians & vehicles
Facilities: None
Wild Setting & Historical Significance
Caló dels Ermitans, also known as Caleta dels Ermitans or S’Arenalet de Son Colom, is a tiny, secluded sandy cove located beneath the Ermita de Betlem (300 metres), flanked by Sa Coassa (321 metres) and Puig de sa Murta (214 metres). The area forms part of the protected Àrea Natural d'Especial Interès Muntanyes d'Artà, renowned for its rugged beauty and ecological value.
The beach’s name reflects its history — once used by the hermits of Betlem, who inhabited the nearby monastery. The surrounding coastline is characterised by flat rocky platforms, largely devoid of vegetation, with only scattered scrub where vineyards once flourished.
Unique Coastal Landscape
The wider stretch of coast between Sa Cugassa and Sa Macada de sa Torre includes several small coves and points — Caló des Corb Marí, Punta de Taverner, N’Olivarda, Cala s’Estret, and Punta de sa Torre (or de s’Eriçó) — each sharing the same raw, rocky character shaped by centuries of wind and sea erosion.
Nearby Prehistoric Sites
A short hike inland leads visitors to the prehistoric Talaiots de Can Pa amb Oli, an ancient archaeological site set within the nearby forest. The site takes its name from the traditional Mallorcan dish “pa amb oli”, meaning bread with tomato and olive oil.
Boating & Anchoring
Due to its tiny size, shallow waters, and rocky seabed, anchoring is not recommended at Caló dels Ermitans. The cove’s small scale makes it suitable for swimming and shoreline exploration but unsuitable for boats.
Access & Popularity
Access is possible by car, following signs toward Betlem or Colònia de Sant Pere. Free parking is available near the village, after which a short walk along a coastal path leads to the cove. Thanks to its remote location and small size, Caló dels Ermitans remains extremely quiet, offering peaceful seclusion for locals and nature lovers.