Nestled in the northern reaches of Ibiza, Cala d’en Serra awaits intrepid explorers ready to embark on the challenge of reaching its secluded shores. But trust us, the journey is undoubtedly worth it!
A Gem of a Beach
Cala d’en Serra unveils a truly stunning spectacle where you’ll immediately embrace the distinctive Ibiza vibe. This charming cove stretches a modest 44 meters. The water, adorned with a crystal-clear blue hue, caresses beautiful sands. Encircled by towering cliffs, the bay provides a tranquil retreat. Across the way, you’ll catch glimpses of hillside scars from a forest fire several years ago.
The beach is never overly crowded, offering a haven for serene relaxation. By the fishing huts, you can perch on the piers and dive into the sea.
On the beach, you’ll find just one quaint beach shack. Here, you can indulge in snacks and drinks. Surrounding the bar, you’ll discover a few tables and chairs. Once owned by a Dutchman and his Spanish partner – with a charming touch of Amsterdam represented by a small post – the shack had seen years of abandonment. Now, under new ownership, you can savor coffee, a sandwich, or a refreshing cocktail.
Derelict Hotel
The aged, dilapidated hotel is undoubtedly worth exploring, but proceed at your own risk. The tale behind Cala d’en Serra’s ruins begins in the ’70s when the acclaimed Catalan architect Josep Lluís Sert envisioned plans for a massive holiday complex, complete with two pools and a terrace boasting a sensational bay view.
However, the project ground to a halt when Sert succumbed to lung cancer in 1983. The works on Cala d’en Serra never resumed, leaving it completely abandoned. Many locals consider it an eyesore and a ‘pollution’ of a beautiful natural area. Others view it as a form of ‘cultural heritage,’ given Sert’s esteemed status as one of Catalonia’s most revered architects.
Over time, various proposals surfaced regarding the site. In 2013, a British company presented plans to the authorities for an entirely new hotel complex. In 2016, the landowner (where the ruins sit) proposed transforming it into a luxury hotel and wellness center with a staggering 5 floors and a total area of 12,141 square meters. Unfortunately, the grounds of the unfinished project are protected by the ‘Natural Spaces Law’ (LEN). Moreover, they are influenced by coastal regulations: the ruin occupies a part of the easement zone and a segment of the 100-meter protection zone.
Fortunately for tranquility seekers, but unfortunately for investors, the bay remains idyllic and quintessentially Ibiza.
So, if you’re inclined toward adventure and in search of a typical idyllic Ibiza cove, make sure to pay a visit to Cala d’en Serra! The view is breathtaking, offering a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle of Ibiza.
Accessibility
Cala d’en Serra is situated in the northern part of Ibiza, just a few minutes from Portinatx. The beach is well signposted. However, access can be a bit challenging due to the steep, bumpy road. Drive down this road until you reach an unfinished complex. You can park at this construction site, and we recommend walking the last stretch. It’s only a few minutes from the small parking area.
Alternatively, explore this beach by boat. Rent a boat and cruise along the most beautiful coves in northern Ibiza.
Tip: We recommend tackling the road by car only if you have four-wheel drive and a higher vehicle. With a suitable vehicle, you can drive all the way to the construction site and walk the final stretch, approximately 100 meters. Otherwise, you can park at the top of the bay and walk down for about 10 minutes. The view is fantastic!
