Es Pontàs

Natural Phenomenon in Palma

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tnv Fotografie (Vinh Tran)

Es Pontàs, known as “the grand bridge” in Catalan, stands as a remarkable limestone natural arch nestled in the south-eastern region of Mallorca, Spain. This awe-inspiring arch graces the coastal area that stretches between Cala Santanyí and Cala Llombards within the Santanyí municipality. Rising to a height of roughly 20 meters (66 feet), Es Pontàs can be reached exclusively by boat or through swimming, making it a favoured scenic attraction for tourists visiting Mallorca. Visitors often flock to the ‘Mirador Es Pontas’ for breathtaking views, especially during the mesmerizing moments of sunrise and sunset.

How was Es Pontàs Made?

Arched rock formations, often referred to as surf gates, are the result of erosive processes. In the realm of natural science, erosion signifies the wearing down and destructive impact of water, ice, or wind on layers of stone or soil.

When it comes to surf gates, the relentless action of the sea gradually erodes softer rock layers, leaving behind an arch-like structure reminiscent of a gate. In arid desert environments, similar gates are formed as softer rock erodes more rapidly than the harder layers, eventually giving rise to stone arches.

Within the Balearic Islands, a total of three such natural arches have been shaped by the relentless force of the sea. In addition to Es Pontàs, these include Pont d’en Gil in Ciutadella, Menorca, and the stone bridge known as Sant Antoni de Portmany in Ibiza.

How to get to Es Pontàs

Es Pontàs is conveniently accessible from Cala Santanyi via a leisurely 50-minute stroll along a clearly marked path. This route is straightforward and does not require any daring feats like walking along cliff edges. In fact, it’s a perfect outing for families with children in Mallorca, offering a safe and enjoyable experience.

To reach Es Pontàs, we recommend parking your vehicle in the free parking area on sa Cova des Vell Mari Street in Cala Santanyi. The car park is a 3-minute walk away from Cala Santanyi Beach. There are also signs indicating the path to take to get you to Es Pontàs.

The Es Pontàs appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Palma!

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